Medical negligence experts react to new findings

Specialist medical negligence lawyers have urged the NHS to work on safety in the A&E department at Swindon’s Great Western Hospital, following the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rating it ‘inadequate.’ 

The CQC highlighted issues with the layout of the department that posed serious concerns, as the observation unit was isolated meaning that patients waiting weren’t properly monitored. This ‘posed unacceptable risks to patient and staff safety.’ 

Other concerns included the department being understaffed and standard ‘good hand hygiene practices and use of protective personal clothing’ not been fully adhered to by all staff. The trust's chief executive Nerissa Vaughan said safety was "our number one priority.” She continued with, "We know we need to do more to build on the improvements we have already made.” 

If you've been injured due to negligent care in Accident & Emergency, our medical negligence solicitors could help you claim compensation. See our Accident & Emergency Compensation Claims page for more information.

Julie Lewis, Partner and specialist medical negligence expert at Irwin Mitchell, also said: