Deceased
Janene DEVINE
Demographics
48y, female
Coroner
Coroner King
Date of death
2007-03-16
Finding date
2016-09-30
Cause of death
malnutrition in association with sepsis on a background of end stage multiple sclerosis
AI-generated summary
A 48-year-old woman with end-stage multiple sclerosis died from malnutrition and sepsis after her husband, her primary carer, failed to provide adequate nutrition via a PEG tube despite receiving training and instructions. She had been admitted to Fremantle Hospital in October 2006 malnourished and with decreased consciousness. A PEG tube was inserted and she improved markedly. On discharge in November 2006, her husband was trained in feeding protocols requiring four cans of prescribed food daily, but he failed to comply. Over the following four months, she lost 13.2 kg, developing severe malnutrition and infected bedsores (sepsis). A neurologist testified that proper feeding would have extended her life by 6–7 years. This case highlights the critical importance of follow-up monitoring and support for vulnerable patients discharged home with complex feeding needs, particularly when carers have documented psychological vulnerabilities and previous concerning behaviours.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes. Report an inaccuracy.
Specialties
Error types
Clinical conditions
Procedures
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