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Widow Demands Hospital Change After Husband's Death
9 Jan
Summary
- Husband died after a fall and hip surgery at Furness General Hospital.
- Widow highlighted lack of care and significant weight loss during hospital stay.
- Hospital implemented new protocols for patient observation and staff training.
The widow of John Hatfield, who died at 79 following a fall and surgery at Furness General Hospital, has called for systemic changes rather than filing a formal complaint. Gabrielle Hatfield expressed concern over a perceived 'lack of care' during her husband's stay, noting his significant weight loss of approximately 3.5 to 4 stone.
Mr. Hatfield was admitted in September 2024 after an initial fall at home. Two months later, he experienced another unwitnessed fall within the hospital. Despite medical interventions, he passed away on December 31, 2024. His family had repeatedly discussed his weight loss with hospital staff.
In response, the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay Trust has developed protocols for staff breaks to ensure continuous patient observation and enhanced training for handover procedures. Mrs. Hatfield also highlighted her unawareness of the Care Partner Programme, which could have enabled her to assist her husband with meals.
