Finding into death of Robert Arthur Selby Lowe
Deceased
Robert Arthur Selby Lowe
Demographics
84y, male
Coroner
Deputy State Coroner Paresa Spanos
Date of death
2021-11-04
Finding date
2023-06-14
Cause of death
Urinary tract infection in a man with Parkinson's disease
AI-generated summary
An 84-year-old man with Parkinson's disease and dementia died from urinary tract infection with sepsis while incarcerated. On 3 November 2021, he developed fever and confusion; antibiotics were commenced. The following morning, a locum medical officer noted haemodynamic instability and recommended hospital transfer, but this was not acted upon. However, following intravenous fluid administration, the patient's condition improved substantially—confusion resolved, vital signs stabilised, oral intake resumed—with apparent acceptance of continued on-site management. He collapsed unexpectedly that evening. The coroner found no clinical want of care; the patient's apparent improvement made hospital transfer seem unnecessary at the time, and the MO's subsequent decision to continue current management was reasonable given the clinical trajectory.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes. Report an inaccuracy.
Specialties
Error types
Drugs involved
Clinical conditions
Procedures
Contributing factors
- Parkinson's disease
- dementia
- advanced age
- haemodynamic instability
- possible sepsis
Coroner's recommendations
- Correct Care Australasia ensure all health staff comply with the relevant Corrections Victoria Commissioners Requirement regarding medical ratings for chronic conditions
Full text
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