Trial award of compensability of claim with Vaughan Law Groups client, a prison guard.While performing searching techniques, the client sustained a scratch or tear in the skin on her upper extremity. Subsequently she developed a rash and sores and ultimately contracted MRSA.

The claimant ran-up numerous and significant medical bills as well as lost wages and need for future treatment (to include plastic surgery). The workers compensation insurance company denied the claim on the basis that it was an occupational disease or exposure and, consequently, argued that the claimant had a higher burden of proof that she could not carry.

The court found to the contrary and held that the claimant sustained an accident in the courseand scope of her employment and awarded benefits.