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NHS Hospitals are warned following Deep Vein Thrombosis deaths
21 July 2011
The BBC News website has reported that some NHS Hospitals have been warned that they could lose part of their income if they continue to fail to assess patients for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
DVT is the formation of a blood clot in a vein that is deep inside a part of the body, usually the legs. The clots can be fatal if they break off and travel to the lungs.
The BBC reports that NHS Trusts are required to screen 90% of patients but fewer than half actually do this. The BBC says the NHS has estimated that 25,000 people die each year from DVT acquired in Hospital.
Patients susceptible to DVT are those who are bed-ridden for a long time or who have undergone extensive surgery. The BBC reports that preventative measures include blood-thinning drugs, compression stockings and keeping patients mobile and hydrated.
If you or a family member has acquired deep vein thrombosis during a stay in Hospital, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact our Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence team today for a telephone conversation or a free, preliminary meeting.
Chloe Newton, Solicitor in the Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence team
