PSOW (Public Services Ombudsman for Wales) decision

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

Decided 19 May 2025 Reference PSOW-202404040 Outcome: Upheld Sector: Health Category: Clinical treatment in hospital Body on this site: Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

Themes assigned by this site (AI-generated): Clinical negligence harms learning, Patient safety governance

Full decision

Decision (the PSOW's words)

Miss C complained about the care and treatment her late mother, Mrs B, received from Cardiff and Vale University Health Board when she was admitted to University Hospital of Wales in January 2024. The investigation considered whether appropriate nursing care was provided to assess, monitor and prevent deterioration of Mrs B’s skin integrity. It also considered whether appropriate nursing care was provided to ensure Mrs B had appropriate fluid intake.

The investigation found there were failings in the nursing care provided to Mrs B in relation to maintaining her skin integrity. This complaint was upheld. The investigation also found that it was appropriate that Mrs B was not prescribed IV fluids and she was appropriately supported with fluid intake. This complaint was not upheld.

The Health Board agreed to apologise to Miss C. It also agreed to share the investigation report with nursing staff to highlight the failings identified, to remind staff to ensure that assessments are undertaken fully and appropriately documented, and to remind staff of the importance of re-positioning a patient.

From: PSOW (Public Services Ombudsman for Wales), decision PSOW-202404040, 19 May 2025