Coronial
VICmental health

Finding into death of Thi Thu Nguyen

Deceased

Thi Thu Nguyen

Demographics

61y, female

Coroner

Coroner Paul Lawrie

Date of death

2024-01-09

Finding date

2025-09-17

Cause of death

Complications of pulmonary thromboembolism secondary to deep vein thrombosis

AI-generated summary

A 61-year-old Vietnamese woman died from pulmonary thromboembolism secondary to deep vein thrombosis while an involuntary psychiatric patient. She had been admitted following a suicide attempt and was placed on an Assessment Order due to ongoing suicidal behaviour. During her 5-day admission to the mental health unit, her physical health appeared stable though she exhibited suicidal ideation and hallucinations. She collapsed while washing her hands and suffered cardiac arrest from massive bilateral pulmonary emboli. The coroner found the medical care provided was appropriate. This case highlights the need for vigilance regarding thromboembolic risks in immobilised psychiatric patients, particularly those experiencing acute mental health crises, and the importance of early mobilisation and thromboprophylaxis assessment in mental health inpatient settings.

AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes. Report an inaccuracy.

Specialties

psychiatryemergency medicineintensive carepathology

Clinical conditions

pulmonary thromboembolismdeep vein thrombosissuicidal ideationauditory and visual hallucinationsacute mental health crisisdepression

Procedures

cardiopulmonary resuscitationsystemic thrombolysis

Contributing factors

  • Immobility during acute psychiatric admission
  • Suicidal ideation and self-harm attempts requiring close supervision
  • Psychological stressors including visa refusal and deportation fears
  • Rapid mental deterioration
Full text

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