A verdict of medical misadventure has been recorded at an inquest into the death of a nursing home resident who was accidentally administered another patient’s medication at Cahercalla Nursing Home in Ennis, Co Clare.
The inquest heard that John Mee, aged 71, was mistakenly given medication prescribed for another resident, including a significant dose of antipsychotic medication, in addition to his own medication.
The incident occurred on June 24th, 2021. Evidence at the inquest heard that Mr Mee became visibly drowsy following the medication error but was not transferred to hospital for approximately 18 hours.
The coroner heard evidence from nursing staff regarding the circumstances surrounding the medication error and the staffing pressures present at the nursing home on the evening in question.
It was accepted at the inquest that the overdose was accidental. However, the coroner stated that he could not exclude the medication error as a contributory factor in Mr Mee’s death.
Recording a verdict of medical misadventure, the coroner described the medication error as a “catalyst” in the sequence of events leading to Mr Mee’s death.
Medical negligence and nursing home negligence matters can involve complex medical and legal issues, often requiring detailed review of medical records, nursing care documentation, and independent expert evidence.
Kerrigan Solicitors advises clients throughout Galway and Ireland in relation to medical negligence claims, nursing home negligence claims, medication error claims, and coroners’ inquests.
Source: Irish Times