Finding into death of Jennifer Mary Clayden

61y · Female·Complications of Down's syndrome, epilepsy and advanced dementia

Jennifer Clayden, 61, with Down's syndrome, epilepsy and advanced dementia, died in Specialist Disability Accommodation on 9 May 2024 from complications of her underlying conditions. She had been transitioned to comfort-based care in May 2023 following hospital admission. In early May 2024, she developed a cough and appeared unwell; locum assessment was initially unavailable. A locum doctor reviewed her on 7 May 2024 providing medication updates. On 9 May 2024, she collapsed suddenly with cyanosis; despite CPR attempts, she died. Autopsy showed no clear cardiac cause, with aspirated material likely secondary to resuscitation efforts. The coroner found no preventability issues and no relationship between her death and her care status, determining it was due to natural causes alone.