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Hospital Investigates Patient Death Amid Heatwave
3 Jul
Summary
- A patient died on a ward during extreme heat last week.
- The hospital is investigating if high temperatures contributed.
- Temperatures in Norfolk reached up to 37.7C last week.
James Paget Hospital has launched an investigation into the death of a patient who passed away on a ward on Saturday, June 27. This incident occurred during a period of extreme weather when temperatures soared across the region. Executive managing director Jonathan Gardner confirmed that concerns were raised by the trust's medical examiner regarding the potential influence of the high temperatures on the patient's death.
The Met Office had issued an amber extreme heat warning, with forecasts predicting temperatures as high as 36C in some areas. Thermometers reportedly reached 37.7C in Lingwood, an area near Great Yarmouth, on Friday. This reading, if verified, could represent the highest June temperature ever recorded in the UK. Businesses and schools in Norfolk experienced closures due to the heat.
The hospital stated that the full investigation is being conducted according to national guidelines. The family of the deceased patient is being kept informed of the ongoing process. The hospital extended its condolences to the family during this difficult time.
