Maureen Johnson · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 26th March 2021, Christopher Murray, Assistant Coroner, opened an inquest into the death of Maureen Johnson who died on 13th March 2021 at Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport, aged 85 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest which I heard on 1st September 2021. A doctor treating Mrs Johnson confirmed that she had died as a result of:

1.a) Acute Renal Failure; due to
1.b) Dehydration;
1.c) Gastroenteritis
II Hypertension.

By way of conclusion, I recorded that Mrs Johnson died as a consequence of Natural Causes.

Mrs Johnson was ordinarily a fit and active person who lived independently in her own home. Towards the end of February 2021, Mrs Johnson became unwell with diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain. After around a week, Mrs Johnson’s symptoms had resolved, however returned again a number of days later.

Mrs Johnson sought medical advice. In the two days prior to her death, two separate General Practitioners held telephone consultations with Mrs Johnson and formed the impression (albeit without examining her) that she had been suffering from a stomach bug which was resolving.

On 13th March 2021, Mrs Johnson’s son (who had been in regular contact with his mother throughout) spoke to her on the telephone and was concerned she sounded short of breath. On attending her home, Mr Johnson found his mother to be seriously ill.

An ambulance was called, and Mrs Johnson was taken to Stepping Hill Hospital where it was quickly recognised she had developed metabolic acidosis and was gravely ill. Despite attempts to provide emergency treatment, Mrs Johnson died later that afternoon.

Given their physiological susceptibility to dehydration and its effects, it is a matter of concern that authoritative guidance does not currently exist as to the assessment of diarrhoea and vomiting suspected to be caused by gastroenteritis in the over 70s, as has previously been published in respect of children and infants younger than 5.

Such guidance might usefully provide a comprehensive overview of symptoms and signs of clinical dehydration in the over 70s, and give clinicians advice as to the circumstances in which a face-to-face assessment is recommended.