Inquest into the death of Carey Alexander

13y · Male·borderline myocarditis, most likely due to influenza A virus infection

A 13-year-old previously healthy boy with borderline myocarditis presented to an adult ED with flu-like symptoms, lethargy, dizziness, syncope and inability to walk unaided. Despite these concerning features, he was discharged after 6.5 hours with no senior review and minimal parental engagement. He deteriorated critically at home and died 7 hours after discharge. Key clinical lessons: lethargy and loss of independent mobility in a child are important markers of serious illness that must be documented and communicated; postural vital signs should be assessed after syncope; parental concerns require active engagement not just passive acceptance; vital clinical information must be recorded in hand-over documents; busy departments require structured escalation pathways; and adult facilities need family-centred cultures for paediatric patients.