Cases of severe brain damage can lead to a persistent vegetative state (PVS). A patient in a persistent vegetative state may exhibit signs of wakefulness without signs of awareness; PVS patients are often unresponsive to external stimuli such as noise or pain.
A patient in a persistent vegetative state is not able to function properly without artificial help.
In some unfortunate cases, an incidence of clinical negligence may be the cause of a patient's persistent vegetative state.
PVS: What is a persistent vegetative state?
PVS is a condition with varying degrees of severity. Although it is possible for a PVS patient to recover from a persistent vegetative state, the chances of PVS recovery diminish with age.
When a patient is in a persistent vegetative state, it can be an extremely traumatic and emotional time for family members. If a persistent vegetative state has occurred as a result of negligence on the part of the organisation responsible for the patient's care, a compensation claim may be possible.
Claiming compensation
Contact Legal Advice Helpline on 0800 612 3042 if a family member has been left in a persistent vegetative state as the result of clinical negligence. We can help by providing access to an expert solicitor who will be able to advise you on your legal rights in respect of PVS negligence claim.
Call our helpline for more information on PVS compensation or browse online to find out more about clinical negligence claims.