A recent investigation by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman has uncovered severe failings in hospital care, culminating in a woman's permanent transfer to a nursing home due to an untreated pressure sore that dramatically worsened her condition. This case underscores the devastating impact of inadequate management of pressure ulcers.
The report details how a hospital's failure to promptly diagnose and treat a pressure ulcer led to irreversible health deterioration. Despite identifiable risk factors, appropriate interventions were not implemented, resulting in severe complications that prevented the woman's return home. The Ombudsman's findings highlight the critical need for robust protocols and accountability in the prevention and management of pressure ulcers.
“We're calling on NHS Trusts to learn from errors and make sure opportunities are not missed to avoid potentially life-changing consequences.”
Pressure ulcers remain a significant, yet often preventable, concern in end of life care. Patients in these settings frequently experience reduced mobility and increased vulnerability to skin breakdown, necessitating timely assessment and intervention. However, this emphasises the importance of targeted training and improved clinical guidelines for healthcare professionals.
Source: Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman
Reducing & Managing Pressure Ulcers at the End of Life
The National Conference on Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Management at the End of Life will bring together leading clinicians, policymakers, and healthcare professionals to address the critical challenges of pressure ulcers in palliative care. With approximately one-third of palliative patients experiencing pressure ulcers, this event will explore ethical dilemmas, risk factors, and best practices in prevention and management. Sessions will cover national updates on pressure ulcer investigation under the new Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF), pain management, and frontline staff education. Join us to gain insights, share expertise, and drive improvements in end of life skin care.
Book your place: www.healthcareconferencesuk.co.uk/virtual-online-courses/pressure-ulcers-end-of-life
