Mother-of-two tragically passes away after misdiagnosis shock
A heartbreaking incident has recently come to light as an inquest revealed the story of a beloved mother-of-two, Kayleigh Colegate, who lost her life due to a misdiagnosis by medical professionals. The 35-year-old from Rhyl, Wales, experienced severe shortness of breath, which hindered her ability to even move around her own home. Following a visit to her GP in May 2022, she was promptly referred to a hospital due to an elevated heart rate and concerns over a potential pulmonary embolism.
Despite the urgency of the situation, delays in ambulance services led to Kayleigh being driven to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan by her father. Upon arrival at the hospital, medical personnel initially believed she was suffering from a non-life-threatening condition called supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). However, it was later discovered that she was actually experiencing sinus tachycardia, which was directly related to her undiagnosed pulmonary embolism.
The harrowing chain of events took a devastating turn when a misdiagnosis at the hospital resulted in Kayleigh receiving incorrect treatment that ultimately led to her untimely passing. An electrocardiogram (ECG) from her GP’s office was misinterpreted as SVT, highlighting the significant impact of “cognitive bias” on the accurate assessment of her condition. The misidentification of her condition led to inappropriate treatment measures being followed, culminating in her tragic death.
During the subsequent inquest, it was revealed that the misdiagnosis influenced the administration of treatments such as adenosine and a betablocker, both of which were deemed unnecessary and even detrimental to Kayleigh’s condition. Dr. Tom O’Driscoll, a former clinical director at the hospital, acknowledged the gravity of the mistakes made, citing them as crucial learning points for the medical community. The inquest also shed light on the importance of avoiding cognitive biases that can cloud medical judgment and result in serious consequences.
The findings of the inquest prompted discussions around the issue of neglect in Kayleigh’s case. While the coroner determined that her death was due to natural causes contributed to by neglect, the Health Board representatives contested the allegation of neglect. Despite the differing viewpoints, the coroner aimed to bring attention to the need for awareness and change within the medical system to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In the aftermath of the inquest, Kayleigh’s widower, Ian Colegate, expressed his hope that the hospital and healthcare providers involved would learn from the mistakes made. His poignant tribute to his late wife highlighted the profound impact Kayleigh had on those around her, describing her as a beautiful individual whose kindness and zest for life would always be cherished by her loved ones.
The tragic story of Kayleigh Colegate serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely intervention in healthcare. It underscores the critical need for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant against biases and ensure that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective treatment for their condition. As the medical community reflects on this heartbreaking loss, efforts to enhance diagnostic practices and prevent similar incidents become paramount in honouring Kayleigh’s memory.