Tragedy struck at the Royal Blackburn Hospital as medical staff made a fatal error, leading to the untimely demise of 73-year-old Pat Dawson. In a heartbreaking turn of events, Pat’s life was cut short due to what appears to be a catastrophic misreading of hospital records.
Pat Dawson, a beloved resident of Rawtenstall, Lancashire, was rushed to the hospital on September 19 last year. Despite her prior good health, she tragically succumbed just four hours after her arrival, leaving her family devastated and questioning the very system meant to care for her.
What should have been a routine medical procedure turned into a nightmare for the Dawson family. Medical staff mistakenly identified Pat as a “do not resuscitate” patient, halting potentially life-saving CPR efforts during what was believed to be a stomach blockage emergency. The investigation that followed revealed a shocking lapse in protocol: the wrong patient’s records had been accessed, leading to this fatal misunderstanding.
As Pat’s son, John, stood vigil by her bedside, hospital staff repeatedly entered the room, oblivious to the fact that Pat had already passed away. The family’s grief was compounded by the insensitivity of a junior doctor who, unaware of Pat’s demise, made a callous remark about her appearance.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, Paula and John Dawson have shown remarkable grace in their pursuit of answers. Rather than seek retribution, they have raised valid concerns about staffing levels and the chaotic atmosphere in our NHS hospitals, where critical errors can have devastating consequences.
The East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust has extended condolences to the Dawson family and pledged to address their concerns. However, until the conclusion of the impending inquest into Pat’s death, scheduled for April 15, further comments will be withheld.
As we reflect on this heartbreaking loss, our thoughts and prayers are with Pat’s loved ones during this difficult time.
