Investigation and inquest
On the 16 November 2018, I commenced an investigation into the death of Mrs Margaret Melia. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 1 April 2019. The conclusion of the inquest was a short form conclusion of natural causes.
The cause of death was:
1a Advanced Dementia
b
c
II Old Age, Malnourished, Ischaemic Heart Disease
Circumstances of the death
i) Mrs Melia was admitted to Dovetail Court Care Home on the 9 October 2018 from Lakeview Care Home. She had a medical history including arthritis, Alzheimer’s, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and required substantial care for her daily living activities.
ii) As part of the pre-assessment, on the 29 September 2018, Mrs Melia was assessed by a manager from Dovedale Court. The nurse on duty (Lakeview Care Home) advised the assessor that she would be requesting the GP to visit her in 2 days (01.10.18) to prescribe subcutaneous fluids due to Mrs Melia’s oral intake was poor and it would be required if her fluid intake dropped below 500ml daily.
iii) The relevant equipment required to administer subcutaneous fluids wasn’t available at Dovetail Care Home and no subcutaneous fluids were given.
iv) Mrs Melia’s condition started to decline rapidly from around the 22 October and her food and fluid intake dropped.
v) She was admitted to Sandwell Hospital and treated for dehydration and a lower respiratory tract infection with antibiotics. Sadly, her condition continued to decline and she was placed on end of life palliative care. She passed away on the 7 November 2018.
Coroner’s concerns
1. Evidence emerged during the inquest that there was an inadequate discharge and pre-assessment process between Lakeview Care Home and Dovetail Care Home over the requirement of subcutaneous fluids.