Investigation and inquest
On the 22nd of January 2015 I commenced an investigation into the death of Natalie Ann Thornton then aged 29 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 2 February 2017. The conclusion of the inquest was Natural Causes–the medical cause of death being diabetic ketoacidosis
Circumstances of the death
Natalie Thornton was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 3 years. Her long-standing diabetic control was described as ‘brittle’ with history of recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis exacerbated by diabetic nephropathy leading to chronic kidney disease; advanced diabetic eye disease and delayed stomach emptying. Her blood glucose control had always been highly variable.
With a view to improving the quality of her life it was decided on the 2 December 2014 to start her on insulin pump therapy for which she was deemed competent and adequately prepared.
At some time after 11:00 hours on 18 January 2015 Natalie awoke and complained of feeling unwell. She subsequently collapsed in the bathroom; deteriorated rapidly and by the time of the arrival of the first paramedic at approximately 14:44 hours CPR was being undertaken without there being any electrical activity within the heart. The fact of death was subsequently confirmed at 15:32 hours that day
Coroner’s concerns
1. Concern was expressed as to the adequacy of the monitoring and review of blood sugar levels/data generated following the initial use of the pump provided by the Salford Royal Trust which provided Natalie’s equipment and had been caring for her over many years. More particularly trends were not analysed. Whilst noting that the introduction of insulin pump therapy was deemed an evolutionary process no formal Pump Agreement was in place at the time although such Agreements have now been implemented
2. From the evidence given by the expert Consultant ████████ it would appear that the level of support for insulin pump users nationally is variable. Whether the need for consistency and minimum standards should be addressed by Regional Centres of Excellence would be a matter for the Department to consider.