Keep an eye on vital signs
Missed conditions in crowded A&E can be life-changing, says GEORGE NICHOLS
HOSPITALS are busier than ever and staff are under pressure like never before, working long hours in under-funded surroundings. The result is that Accident and Emergency departments in particular are struggling to cope. Recent NHS figures show 2015/16 was the busiest year on record for A&E departments in England, with 22.9 million attendances.
So it’s understandable errors can creep in, with staff often dealing with patients incoherent due to alcohol or drugs or with learning difficulties, which can lead to mistakes in a high-pressure environment.
That is little consolation for those left stricken. The Serious Injury Helpline is suggesting people keep a close eye if they think they have or have had any of five conditions sometimes missed in A&E.
Spinal injury caused by compression
Cauda equina syndrome, involving pressure or swelling on spinal cord nerves, can result in paralysis, yet can be dismissed as back pain. There is a window of 24-48 hours in which surgery must take place to avoid permanent damage, which can include incontinence and other neurological and physical issues.
Diabetic foot injury
Diabetics are advised to keep a watch for changes in feeling to the lower extremities (diabetic neuropathy). Checks should be made and diabetic ulcers or eczema monitored. If diabetic ulcers or nail and toe infections are not treated the patient can end up losing a toe, or worse.
A severe obstruction of the arteries (critical limb ischemia) can occur. As well as treatment, monitoring is a must.
Heart attack or cardiac failure
Most heart attacks start slowly, with mild symptoms of pain or discomfort often confused with indigestion, heartburn or a chest infection. Guidelines mean that it is unacceptable for a doctor or nurse to determine that chest pain is not a heart attack and send a patient home.
Appendicitis
If the appendix ruptures it can cause peritonitis, a life-threatening infection.
Symptoms include stomach ache, fever and pains in one side of the body but this is sometimes dismissed as constipation, flu or a stomach bug.
Hip joint fracture
This usually occurs after a fall but can be caused by a history of long-distance running or a sudden increase in physical activity. Patients may only complain of vague hip, groin or knee pain but it can have a life-changing effect on mobility if untreated. Inexperienced professionals can misread X-rays and a full diagnosis often requires a CT or MRI scan.
The Serious Injury Helpline, a service from solicitors Birchall Blackburn Law, aims to support victims of clinical negligence. Compensation is important to help with rehabilitation, adaptation of home and car, aids and equipment, care and assistance, private medical treatment and covering loss of earnings.
INFORMATION: Anyone needing advice about possible clinical negligence should contact the Serious Injury Helpline: FREEPHONE 0800 230 0573 or clinicalnegligence@birchallblackburn.co.uk