Improving the quality of care – learning through case studies. Pressure care

Abstract

Mrs September is a 72 year old retired nurse who suffers from multiple sclerosis. She is able to move around her own home with a walking aid but requires a wheelchair to go out. She fell at home and sustained a fractured neck of left femur. She was admitted to an orthopaedic ward where she was nursed for nine days before going to theatre for a hip replacement. During this time she developed a pressure sore. Due to her age and medical condition, she was admitted to the high care section for 48 hours after surgery. She recovered from the surgery and was discharged home. Before going home she lodged a complaint with regard to the poor care received.