Thomas Farrell · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 15th May 2015 an Inquest was commenced into the death of Thomas Farrell, who died on 16th July 2014 at Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham of Respiratory Failure as a result of Bronchopneumonia as a result of Emphysema. A Conclusion of Natural Causes was recorded.

Mr Farrell died whilst a resident at Springfield Care Home, Nottingham. Shortly before his death he became unwell with a chest infection and was visited by his GP, who prescribed antibiotics, which were given. The Home had taken responsibility for the administration of Mr Farrell’s prescription medications, including those he entered the home with, as well as the antibiotics. His condition worsened and he was admitted to hospital in the early hours of 16th July 2014, where he died the same day.

1. That the Home did not know the true extent of the prescription drugs which were indicated for Mr Farrell while he was a resident, having not approached Mr Farrell’s GP for a full record. The result of this was that the prescription drugs aspirin, senna, doxalil and omeprazole were not given. Whilst in the event this did not cause or contribute to his death on 16th July 2014, the risk of such an omission causing death in other circumstances is clear.