Mrs B complained about the care and treatment she received from Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. Specifically, the investigation considered whether investigations for recurrent breast abscesses between November 2023 and April 2025 were adequate and timely.
The investigation found that, overall, the clinical investigations conducted by the Health Board for recurrent breast abscesses were adequate and timely. Although some aspects of the action taken by the Health Board were not in line with relevant protocols or guidelines, it was unlikely that this impacted upon the care and treatment Mrs B required in the longer term, or the outcome. The Ombudsman did not uphold the complaint.
The Ombudsman invited the Health Board to review relevant policies and protocols to ensure they reflect best practice, and to share these with relevant clinicians. In addition, the Ombudsman invited the Health Board to remind staff about requirements for antibiotic prescribing outlined in its breast infection protocol.