Coroner's Finding: BAUMANIS Bronislawa Sonia

84y · Female·ischaemic heart disease

An 84-year-old woman with dehydration, fever, and confusion initially refused hospital admission due to fears of nursing home placement. Her GP appropriately obtained a Mental Health Act detention order when she refused transport despite clinical necessity. During transfer to the ambulance, she suffered cardiac arrest, likely precipitated by the distressing circumstances. Resuscitation was initiated immediately and continued during transport to hospital, where advanced life support was provided. Autopsy confirmed ischaemic heart disease with severe coronary artery atherosclerosis as the cause. The coroner found all clinical decisions and treatment appropriate, with no deficiencies identified. This case illustrates the tension between respecting patient autonomy and ensuring timely access to necessary acute medical care in vulnerable elderly patients with acute illness.