Overview
The complainant’s representative raised a complaint against Argyll and Clyde NHS Board (the Board), on behalf of the complainant (Mrs C), about the treatment she received at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in respect of a top-up epidural to allow for the surgical removal of the retained placenta after the birth of her son in August 2004.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that:
- (a) clinical errors by the consultant anaesthetist (Dr E) put Mrs C’s health at risk during her labour (not upheld); and
- (b) Dr E’s recollection of the facts differs from those of Mrs C, who believes that Dr E is being untruthful (not upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- (i) consider whether it needs to review when clinical risk reviews of incidents such as these are carried out; and
- (ii) ensures that clinical staff are reminded of their responsibility to maintain detailed records, in particular, in respect of anaesthetic procedures.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly. The Ombudsman asks that the Board notify her when the recommendations have been implemented.