Staff Member Admits Missing 7 Checks Leading to Patient’s Death in Mental Health Ward
In a tragic turn of events at Birch Hill Hospital in Rochdale, Lee Doherty, a long-term patient detained under the Mental Health Act for a decade, met his untimely demise on July 15, 2022. The cause of his death was attributed to severe bleeding, which was discovered by the staff at Prospect Place, a mental health facility run by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust. The ongoing inquest into this unfortunate incident has shed light on some alarming revelations that have left many questioning the standards of care provided at the facility.
Nurse Assistant’s Admission
During a recent hearing at Rochdale Coroners’ Court overseen by senior coroner Joanne Kearsley, a nursing assistant named Rosemary Thompson confessed to missing seven crucial 15-minute checks that were meant to be conducted on Mr. Doherty. These checks, essential for monitoring his well-being, were neglected by Ms. Thompson between 1:40 pm and 3:20 pm on the day of his passing. When questioned about her actions, Ms. Thompson admitted to being unaware of these required observations, as she was occupied with other tasks in the facility at the time.
Questionable Practices Unveiled
Furthermore, the court proceedings revealed a concerning ‘culture’ at Prospect Place, where staff members were observed taking their entire break of one hour and 40 minutes at the beginning or end of their shifts. This practice led to staffing levels dropping below the minimum requirements, jeopardizing the safety and well-being of patients like Mr. Doherty. It was also noted that records of observations made by the staff did not always align with the CCTV evidence, raising suspicions of falsification.
Changes Implemented Post Tragedy
In response to these distressing revelations, Prospect Place associate director Ieuan Thomas-Cole informed the court that significant changes have been implemented since Mr. Doherty’s passing. Staff members are no longer allowed to take breaks at the start or end of their shifts, and additional measures, such as mandatory countersigning of observation logs by the nurse in charge, have been introduced to ensure accountability. Despite these measures, questions regarding the adequacy of oversight and adherence to protocols remain unanswered.
As the inquest continues, the spotlight remains firmly on the actions and oversights that may have contributed to the unfortunate death of Lee Doherty. It serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of diligent care and adherence to established protocols in mental health facilities to prevent such tragic incidents from reoccurring.
**Personal Touch:**
Imagine for a moment being a patient in a mental health facility, relying on the vigilance and dedication of the staff for your safety and well-being. The heartbreaking case of Lee Doherty highlights the profound impact that negligence and systemic issues can have on vulnerable individuals seeking care and support. It prompts us to reflect on the responsibility we all share in ensuring the highest standards of care and compassion for those in need. Let us strive to learn from such tragedies and work towards creating environments that prioritize the dignity and welfare of every individual under our care.