Death in Line

Abstract

Mr Coetzee, a 77-year-old patient, with a history of chronic heart failure developed acute diarrhoea and consequent dehydration. He was treated in one hospital and discharged himself due to social problems. His condition deteriorated at home and his daughter brought him to the emergency section of another hospital during the night. He was assessed, and an IV infusion was commenced. While awaiting admission, he died, sitting in a wheelchair in the emergency department. His children were very upset and believed the hospital was responsible for the death of their father.