What caused the 12-day-old baby Pippa's death?

Pippa suffered a severe brain injury due to a lack of oxygen during her planned home birth.

What were the main concerns raised by the investigation into Pippa's death?

The investigation highlighted issues with incomplete risk assessments, insufficient equipment for multiple home births, and inconsistent monitoring of the baby's heart rate.

When is the inquest into Pippa's death scheduled?

An inquest into Pippa's death will take place at Cheshire Coroner's Court.

Home / Health / Baby's Death: Home Birth Risks Exposed

Baby's Death: Home Birth Risks Exposed

25 Jan

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Summary

Newborn suffered severe brain injury due to oxygen deprivation.
Parents believe staffing issues impacted home birth care.
Investigation highlights multiple safety and documentation concerns.

A family in Warrington is seeking answers from Warrington Hospital following the tragic death of their 12-day-old daughter, Pippa. The infant suffered a severe brain injury due to a lack of oxygen during a planned home birth on August 25, 2024.

Concerns about staff shortages prompted the parents to opt for a home birth, believing it offered closer monitoring. However, the home birth team was attending another birth, and initial contact was delayed. The situation was exacerbated by staffing issues within the community team, leading to incomplete risk assessments and lack of information for the parents.

Further complications arose during the labor as monitoring of Pippa's heart rate was not consistently performed according to NICE guidelines. Despite difficulties, the baby was not transferred to hospital promptly. Pippa was born in a 'poor condition' and later confirmed to have a severe brain injury, passing away on September 5, 2024.