Man Dies After 34-Hour Wait for Antibiotics

An investigation has revealed that the death of a 45-year-old disabled man from sepsis was preventable. The man, who suffered from a rare neurological disorder requiring 24-hour care, was admitted to Bassetlaw Hospital for intravenous antibiotics due to a resistant urinary tract infection. His condition made him highly susceptible to such infections.

Despite being referred for IV antibiotics, the man experienced a significant delay of 34 hours before receiving the correct medication, and even then, at a reduced dosage. A subsequent delay in a second dose occurred before he became septic. During his hospital stay, his difficulties in communicating and his mother’s concerns were not adequately addressed by staff.

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman investigation found that medical requests for IV antibiotics were not followed, and initial oral treatment proved ineffective. The trust has since apologized, agreed to a financial remedy for the family, and committed to an action plan to prevent future tragedies, acknowledging serious failings in care.