Finding into death of IWT

77y · Female·Complications of malnutrition in a woman with paranoid delusions

A 77-year-old woman with complex medical and psychiatric history died from complications of malnutrition while an inpatient with paranoid delusions and delirium. She was admitted following falls and required compulsory treatment under the Mental Health Act due to refusal of food, drink, and medication based on persecutory beliefs. Despite comprehensive clinical management including psychiatric review, medication optimization, dietitian involvement, and consideration of nasogastric feeding, she continued to refuse oral intake. A nasogastric tube was withheld to prioritize her expressed goals of care emphasizing comfort. The Coroners Prevention Unit found no shortcomings in care. The coroner concluded clinicians acted reasonably and appropriately in her best interests, exploring treatment options while respecting her final wishes.