A patient who negligently received an excess dose of chemotherapy has recovered substantial damages from the Healthcare Trust responsible for the error.
Aine Tyrrell of O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors was instructed on behalf of a client who was given an overdose of chemotherapy during cancer treatment at the Ulster Hospital in 2023.
Our client had been diagnosed with breast cancer. When she attended for her first chemotherapy session, she was given a dose which was calculated on the basis of an incorrect weight. This meant that she received a significantly higher dose of chemotherapy than would otherwise have been the case.
Following the overdose, would clients surgical wound broke down, and she had to be readmitted to hospital to undergo further surgery. An apology was offered to our client, and she was told about the error around two weeks after it occurred.
We were instructed to pursue a civil claim on her behalf for the injuries which she sustained as a result of this mistake. Liability was admitted by the Trust’s representatives and the case was ultimately settled by way of negotiations in the sum of £50,000.00.
The client said – “The service I received was 100%. I was always told the truth with realistic goals. I was shown care and kindness throughout and always felt valued. Aine was proactive, efficient and highly knowledgeable. Fantastic service.”
