14 August 2012
Clinical negligence specialists
Ellen Parry and
Henry Dyson have negotiated a six-figure award for an 82-year old lady following the negligent management of the antibiotic, Nitrofurantoin. Mrs B was prescribed the antibiotic by the Whittington Hospital without being told that there was any risk of
lung toxicity. She was not told, nor was her GP, that her lung function should be monitored, or that she should stop taking the drug if she developed any respiratory symptoms.
Mrs B began to suffer from breathlessness and associated immobility but did not realise that this was due to the antibiotic, which continued to be prescribed without review. Eventually, due to the severity of her symptoms, she was referred to hospital for chest x-rays. A diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis was made, secondary to the Nitrofurantoin. Mrs B had to take steroids which led to weight gain and diabetes. Her enjoyment of day to day life and her independence have been greatly reduced by her lung injury. She must rely on others to help her get out and about, and she is only able to walk very short distances before stopping for breathlessness.
The Trust admitted liability and a settlement figure was reached which allowed for alterations to Mrs B’s home to ease the difficulties caused by her injury.
For further information please contact
Ellen Parry on
020 7650 1200.
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