Coroner's Finding: Hough, Robert John

72y · Male·asphyxia due to upper airway obstruction due to choking on food

A 72-year-old man with acquired brain injury, seizure disorder, and dysphasia died from asphyxia due to choking on food while eating eggs and ham on toast at a disability care facility. He had no documented swallowing difficulties or special dietary requirements, and had tolerated the same food daily without incident. One minor choking episode occurred in May 2021 but resolved immediately. The coroner found the care provided was appropriate, no deficiencies were identified, and the death was not suspicious. This case highlights that even without identified risk factors, choking remains a risk in patients with neurological conditions affecting swallowing. Staff responded appropriately with back blows and CPR. The coroner made no recommendations.