Mother's Tragic Death from Sepsis Prompts Hospital Review
A 51-year-old woman died from sepsis following a hysterectomy due to delayed diagnosis. The inquest revealed missed opportunities, leading to calls for improved patient care and safety measures.
A year ago, a routine surgical procedure at Good Hope Hospital in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, ended in tragedy for Jessica Bonner, a 51-year-old mother. Admitted for treatment of pelvic pain and fibroids, Bonner underwent a hysterectomy and oophorectomy. However, complications arose, leading to her untimely death from sepsis.
The inquest, held at Birmingham and Solihull coroner's court, revealed a series of missed opportunities that likely contributed to Bonner's death. Following the surgery, she exhibited signs of infection, including elevated temperature and heart rate. Despite these warning signs, medical staff failed to escalate her case to senior physicians or conduct timely examinations.
"It's almost impossible to find the words to describe the hurt we feel over mum's death. When she went into hospital for surgery, we never thought she wouldn't return home. Seeing her in those final days was terrible and we were so powerless to help."
The delay in diagnosing Bonner's perforated bowel led to the development of sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body's response to infection. By the time a physical examination was conducted, her condition had deteriorated significantly, preventing her from undergoing a crucial CT scan.
The inquest concluded that Bonner would likely have survived if her symptoms had been addressed promptly. This finding has prompted her family to call for improved patient care and safety measures.
In response to the tragedy, the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust has admitted to missed opportunities in identifying the source of sepsis. A Patient Safety Incident Investigation Report highlighted issues with unapproved surgical equipment and limited communication between staff members.
The hospital has since implemented several recommendations, including a review of theatre procedures and equipment, as well as improved monitoring protocols for patients with abnormal observations.
Jason Large, Bonner's partner, and her sons, Corey Wilson and Shakil Stevens, are advocating for lessons to be learned from this incident. Their legal representative, Joe Matchett, emphasized the importance of early detection and treatment of sepsis.
The University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust has extended a heartfelt apology to Bonner's family and committed to improving their services to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of vigilant post-operative care and effective communication among medical staff. It also highlights the ongoing need for hospitals to adhere strictly to approved equipment policies and to prioritize patient safety at every stage of treatment.
