Finding into death of Sheryl Yvonne Martell

49y · Female·aspiration pneumonia complicating cerebral palsy

Ms Sheryl Yvonne Martell, a 49-year-old woman with cerebral palsy and severe intellectual disability residing in a group home, died from aspiration pneumonia. She was admitted to hospital on 21 June 2010 after vomiting and was treated with antibiotics including Benzylpenicillin, Metronidazole, and subsequently Timentin following infectious diseases consultation. Despite appropriate treatment, she deteriorated and was managed palliatively with a not-for-resuscitation order. The coroner found no evidence that any want of clinical care or management contributed to her death. The case highlights the inherent risks of aspiration in patients with cerebral palsy and severe disability, despite appropriate group home support and timely hospital care.