Death Of Patient Prompts Changes To Inpatient Care
The Royal Hampshire County Hospital has made changes to several of its procedures following the death of a patient.The Southern Daily Echo reports that 71-year-old Heather Glasspool died in January this year, one month after falling over and suffering a head injury while an inpatient at the hospital.
A post-mortem revealed that the pensioner had sustained a large bleed on her brain that was ultimately the cause of her death. She also suffered from heart disease and pneumonia.
After the incident, Mrs Glasspool was immediately re-categorised as being at a high risk of falling, but a CT scan did not take place until the next day.
The hospital has said that in future, a CT scan will be performed immediately following incidents like this, while any patients on diuretic drug Furesemide will be reclassified as being at a high risk of falling.
"We would like to express our sincere condolences to Mrs Glasspool's family and friends," said the hospital in a statement.
"We have learned from this incident and have implemented changes as a result."
Expert Opinion
This tragic case illustrates the importance of providing the best possible treatment to those who have suffered head injuries. It is positive to see that the hospital has made changes to its procedures to ensure patients are given the care they require. <br/> <br/>“We have seen the impact delays to critical treatment can have, particularly on those who have suffered a head injury, and it is vital lessons are learned from this tragic incident and patients are reassured the best possible care and treatment is in place.” Mandy Luckman - Partner