Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Ex-MP threatens to sue over superbugs
Former Coatbridge, Chryston & Bellshill MP Tom Clarke is threatening legal action against the NHS, claiming he contracted two deadly superbugs following a routine knee operation.
The 76- year- old picked up antibiotic- resistant strains of E coli and enterococcus after going under the knife at Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
Mr Clarke had his right knee replaced in January and was discharged after six days but was readmitted after falling violently ill.
His GP found he had two hospitalacquired infections.
He had a second op to clean up his infected wound and doctors spent three weeks bringing the superbugs under control.
And the former shadow Scottish Secretary has spoken to solicitors with a view to starting legal proceedings against NHS Scotland.
One friend revealed: “Tom thought he was going to die.
“He is being pumped full of antibiotics three days a week to try to clear the infection.
“He said the ward looked filthy and he’s been far from impressed by the level of care.”
Mr Clarke’s concerns were exacerbated when his GP received paperwork referring to an “accident” during his treatment.
The friend added: “No one has told him directly about any accident but his GP received paperwork to that effect.
“He’s been banging his head against a wall and feels the need to get a solicitor involved to get answers. His view is the hospital is not fit for purpose.”
Mr Clarke said: “It has been tough but I’m not prepared to elaborate on it at this time.”
An NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde spokesman said: “We are sorry to hear about this patient’s problems following surgery.
“Unfortunately surgical site infections are a recognised complication of knee replacement.
“There was no accident during this patient’s operation. However, we are aware of his post- op complications and his consultant has arranged an appointment for later this month.”