Finding into death of Paul Bernard Finck

47y · Male·pulmonary thromboembolism and deep vein thrombosis

Paul Finck, 47, an involuntary psychiatric patient with schizophrenia, died from pulmonary thromboembolism and deep vein thrombosis while admitted to the psychiatric ward. He presented with fever, tachycardia, elevated CK levels and dehydration from walking 26km barefoot. Clinical staff considered differential diagnoses including neuroleptic malignant syndrome and infection. Despite family concerns about immobilization from sedation potentially contributing to DVT formation, the coroner found his presentation was not diagnostic of DVT, clinical staff did not predict this complication, and appropriate monitoring was provided. The condition was found unforseeable and unlikely even with admission to a medical ward. No adverse findings were made against healthcare staff.