Overview
An MP (Mr C) complained on behalf of the aggrieved (Mr D and Ms B) that out-of-hours doctors employed by Ayrshire and Arran NHS Board (the Board) endangered their infant son (Baby A)'s life by failing, on a number of occasions, to diagnose his twisted bowel.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that the Board's diagnosis of Baby A's twisted bowel was unnecessarily delayed (upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- (i) provide training to General Practice and midwifery staff in their area on the assessment and treatment of neonates with bilious vomiting; and
- (ii) apologise to Mr D and Ms B for the failings identified in this report.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act upon them accordingly.