Compensation obtained for family of man who died after treatment error

Amanda Cavanagh, a Medical Negligence Specialist at Ashtons Legal, has obtained a substantial amount of compensation for the family of a man who died after he was not given heparin – a blood thinning medication that is associated with a procedure sometimes used to treat heart attacks.

Mr F was admitted to hospital after he experienced sudden chest pains. He was treated with a percutaneous cardiac intervention (PCI – a non-surgical treatment used to open up narrowing arteries).

During the procedure, Mr F started experiencing chest pains. Those treating him noted that he had a mobile thrombus (a blood clot) in one of his arteries.

It was only then that a second consultant realised that Mr F had not been given heparin. During a PCI, it is essential that a blood-thinning medication such as heparin is given to a patient.

Soon after this treatment error was noticed, Mr F went into cardiac arrest. An emergency response team was called and CPR was given, but unfortunately he was pronounced dead shortly after.

Amanda comments: “This was a tragic case whereby a simple treatment error led to the loss of a life. Although receiving compensation will not undo what has been done, I hope that it provides Mr F’s family with some financial security at this time. I am pleased that those responsible have been held accountable and I hope that it will help to prevent another family from having to go through a similar situation as a result of negligent medical care.”