Investigation and inquest
On 9 May 2022 I commenced an investigation into the death of George Edward GRIFFITHS. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 14 June 2023. The conclusion of the inquest was narrative.
Circumstances of the death
On 01.2.22, Mr Griffiths went from home by ambulance to A&E, County Hospital, Hereford. He was admitted to the hospital for treatment as it was diagnosed he had an acute kidney injury, gastritis, poorly controlled diabetes and infected toes. Profound metabolic acidosis was noted on a VBG test.
He developed worsening hypernatraemia and sepsis. He was also treated for Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State and he was investigated for Fournier’s Gangrene. Mr Griffiths was then transferred to ICU for further care and treatment.
He had long treatment in ICU and following stepdown back to ward developed delirium.
Mr Griffiths developed COVID during his hospital stay and treatment for this was given.
He was transferred to a ward for elderly care after his long and complicated admission by which time he had developed a significant pressure sore and C diff diarrhoea.
Doctors believe the pressure sore has contributed to death and this occurred during hospital admission.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) The patient appears to have been held in ED for 40+ hours during which time footwear was not removed. Necrotic Toe apparent without evidence of appropriate management or referral.
(2) Skin inspection on admission confirmed that all areas were intact but there is no evidence of preventative care despite patients’ time on ED (40 hours) and in AMU (5 days). Acknowledgement of pressure area damage occurred on the 8th February but no reassessment took place until the 20th February with consequent failure to implement pressure relieving measures.
(3) The Pressure Sore acquired in Hospital contributed to the death and it is noted that pressure area care training is not mandatory within Wye Valley Trust.