Overview
The complainant (Mrs C) raised a number of concerns about the treatment her husband (Mr C) received at Crosshouse Hospital, Kilmarnock in February 2005. In particular she was concerned that there was a delay by staff in reaching a diagnosis and that medication which was administered was not written in the medical records. Mrs C also complained about the way her complaint was handled.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that:
- (a) there was a delay in reaching a diagnosis (not upheld);
- (b) staff failed to record when medication was administered to Mr C (not upheld); and
- (c) there was inadequate complaints handling (upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- (i) bring to the attention of staff the comments made by Adviser 1 in regard to the failure to recognise the decrease in Mr C's kidney function from 17 February 2005 and the monitoring of his Gentamicin levels;
- (ii) conduct an audit of the nursing records for Ward 3A to ascertain if they are in accordance with the standards as set out by the Nursing and Midwifery Council; and
- (iii) conduct a review of their complaints procedure to ensure that staff are acting in accordance with the National Guidance.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly