Investigation and inquest
On 21/01/2019 I commenced an investigation into the death of John Patrick Doyle. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest 25th June 2019. The conclusion of the inquest was a narrative conclusion:
Mr Doyle died as a result of starvation ketoacidosis, following a likely fall in his home address. It is likely that he was unable to get up or seek assistance, following the fall. He had suffered a similar fall and long-lie, some months prior to his death. The need for a panic alarm was identified, but no alarm had been put in place at the time of his death.
Circumstances of the death
Mr Doyle was admitted to hospital in July 2018 having fallen at his home address. Following the fall, he had laid undiscovered for 4 to 5 days. He was discharged from Hospital on the 10 September 2018. Prior to his discharge, there was recognition of a need for a panic alarm. A panic alarm was requested, by the occupational therapist with an urgency level of “high” on the 4 September 2018. There were initial difficulties in reaching Mr Doyle, but a home visit to arrange the alarm took place on 18 September 2018. A different type of alarm was recommended, because Mr Doyle did not have a landline. Advice was provided to the occupational therapist on how to request this, on the 27 September 2018. The occupational therapist did not lodge the request until 4 October 2018. Sadly, Mr Doyle was found deceased by a district nurse on the 3 October 2018. It is likely that he had suffered a fall and was unable to get back up or to seek assistance. He died from starvation ketoacidosis.
Coroner’s concerns
the evidence heard around the training provided to occupational therapists in relation to the emergency equipment available from Telecare. It is requested that the training for occupational therapists is reviewed to consider:
I. The emergency alarm equipment available
II. The order process required for such equipment, and
III. The compatibility between the alarm system and the telephone systems within the home setting.
It was also noted that technology changes frequently and therefore it is requested that a form of refresher training is also considered.