Overview
The complainants raised a number of concerns about the care of their late mother (Mrs A) while she was a patient at Stobhill Hospital, Glasgow and Glasgow Royal Infirmary between January and August 2007. In particular, they raised concerns about unnecessarily prolonged admission due to acquired infections, quality of food, lack of mental and social therapy, management of hearing aids, communication with family members and information about MRSA.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaint which has been investigated is that Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS Board (the Board) failed to provide appropriate care to Mrs A between 14 January 2007 and her death on 31 August 2007 (partially upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- (i) give consideration to the introduction of recorded, validated mental tests on admission for older people (whether the patient is considered confused or not) by way of a base-line assessment to assist in future diagnosis;
- (ii) review policy for handling of hearing aids and assistance available particularly in light of Mrs A’s experience;
- (iii) advise her of the action plan resulting from the November 2007 audit of Ward 45, Ward 46, and Ward 47 at Stobhill Hospital, Glasgow, and
- (iv) advise her of the action plan resulting from the Rehabilitation and Assessment Directorate review of the ‘patient day’.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.