Source · Prevention of Future Deaths

David Potts

Ref: 2019-0496 Date: 26 Nov 2019 Coroner: Yvonne Blake Area: Norfolk Responses identified: 0 / 1 View PDF

Critical medication (Beriplex) was not administered promptly, its delivery was unchecked, and staff lacked awareness regarding its non-administration and the patient's location.

Date 26 Nov 2019
56-day deadline 20 Jan 2020
Responses identified 0 of 1
Hospital Death (Clinical Procedures and medical management) related deaths

Coroner's concerns

AI summary
Critical medication (Beriplex) was not administered promptly, its delivery was unchecked, and staff lacked awareness regarding its non-administration and the patient's location.
View full coroner's concerns
That the prescription of Beriplex was not given in a timely manner_ (2) That no-one checked that it had been given despite an extension of the bleed (3) That no-one seemed to know why it was not given as ordered or where Mr Potts was on the day in question. and aged end day point (1)

Report sections

Investigation and inquest
On 27 August 2019 commenced an investigation into the death of David Michael Potts 82 years. The investigation concluded at the of the inquest on 19 November 2019. The conclusion of the inquest was a narrative detailing Mr Potts' fall at home and development of an Acute Subdural Haematoma_ He was on Apixaban. It was recommended that he be given Beriplex to reverse the effects of the Apixaban. Cause of Death 1a) Hospital Acquired Pneumonia; 2 Right Subdural Haematoma.
Circumstances of the death
Mr Potts fell at home hitting his head. He was prescribed apixaban. When admitted it was discovered that he had an acute subdural haematoma: Specialist Neurology advice was sought and the treating doctor prescribed Beriplex to revers the effects of the Apixaban: This was ready the same and available from the pharmacy: No-one followed this up and at one it was thought it hadn't been given because he was having an X-ray So off the ward. In fact; he did not leave the ward for any radiology that day; but it appears there was no documentation about his whereabouts. In any event the Beriplex was not given for some time and his bleed extended. He stabilised enough to be transferred to a local unit for possible rehabilitation. He declined after transfer and died 7 days later .
Action should be taken
In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and believe you and your organisation have the power to take such action.

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Report details

Reference
2019-0496
Date of report
26 November 2019
Coroner
Yvonne Blake
Coroner area
Norfolk

Responses identified

Responses identified 0 of 1
1 response not yet linked

Organisations named in PFD reports are normally expected to respond within 56 days. Deadline: 20 Jan 2020.

Sent to

Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital

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