Inappropriate monitoring of patient leads to death

Darren was admitted into hospital at the age of 36 with a fungal infection of his oesophagus. As a consequence of his underlying condition he had difficulty in swallowing and consequently staff were told that he needed to be on a soft diet to avoid the risk of him choking. In addition at meal times he required close monitoring due to his tendency to slip backwards, into a horizontal position. He did not have the ability to push himself back up into a sitting position with his legs due to poor muscle tone.

Despite Darren’s medical condition and the fact that he was supposed to be on a soft diet, he was fed toast by the nursing staff. Such food was contraindicated in view of Darren being placed on a soft diet. One morning after leaving Darren unsupervised with his toast, it was noted that he was struggling to breathe. Upon closer inspection it became obvious that Darren was choking on the toast. Resuscitation was commenced but subsequently withdrawn and Darren choked to death.

Darren’s parents pursued a claim against the local NHS Trust and, with the assistance of clinical negligence solicitor Mandy Luckman, received £15,000 in compensation.