Overview
The complainant (Mrs C) complained about the treatment for a nut allergy provided to her daughter (Miss C) by a GP (the GP), prior to her daughter's death from anaphylaxis. In particular, Mrs C complained that an EpiPen (an auto injector of adrenaline) had not been prescribed to Miss C. Mrs C also complained about the tone and manner of the GP when she telephoned four days after her daughter's death.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that:
- (a) the care and treatment provided to Miss C by her GP for a nut allergy prior to her death from anaphylaxis was inadequate (upheld); and
- (b) the tone and manner of the GP when she telephoned four days after Miss C's death were inappropriate (not upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that:
- (i) the GP write to Mrs C to apologise for failing to discuss the letter of 1 August 2007 with her.
The Practice has accepted the recommendation to issue an apology and will act on it accordingly.
Further Action
Faced with the lack of national guidance on adrenaline auto injector prescription, there is a danger of inconsistency in approach with potentially devastating consequences. Introducing national guidance could be a safeguard against this. A national paediatric allergy network that has been set up could take this forward and build upon the work already done by Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS Board. The Ombudsman will draw this matter to the attention of the Scottish Government Health and Social Care Directorate.