The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for United Christian Hospital (UCH) announced a sentinel event today (July 23) as follows:
An 82-year old female patient with terminal disease was admitted to a surgical ward in UCH on July 7 due to abdominal pain and vomiting. She expressed thoughts of self-harm on the next day and she was referred to a clinical psychologist for follow-up. Her emotions were assessed to be stable. From admission onwards, the patient's condition and emotions had been continuously assessed and observed.
During a regular ward patrol at around 3.20am today, there were no abnormalities observed. At 3.50am, the patient was found with two plastic bags wrapped around her head and unconscious. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed immediately but the patient succumbed at 4.17am. UCH reported the incident to the Police and will fully co-operate with the police investigation.
The hospital is saddened by the incident and expressed deep condolences to the patient's family. Healthcare staff will render necessary assistance to the patient's family. The case has been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office via the Advance Incident Reporting System. A Root Cause Analysis Panel will be set up to look into the incident and propose recommendations. The incident has also been reported to the Coroner.
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