Breathing tubes becoming dislodged on 40% of the shifts that Lucy Letby worked as a trainee nurse in Liverpool has been highlighted in a recent inquiry. Letby, 34, had completed placements at Liverpool Women’s Hospital between 2012 and 2015 before her killing spree at the Countess of Chester Hospital. The Thirlwall Inquiry is investigating how Letby was able to murder seven babies and attempt to murder others between 2015 and 2016. Richard Baker KC, who represents nine families, mentioned collapses in neonatal units, including the dislodgement of endotracheal tubes – an event considered unusual that occurs in less than 1% of shifts, but during Letby’s time at the hospital, it happened in 40% of shifts.
Letby was found guilty of attempting to murder a baby girl, Child K, by deliberately dislodging her breathing tube in 2016. The parents of Child K believe their daughter was murdered by Letby. Other families also allege that Letby caused unexpected collapses. The public inquiry also explores failures by the hospital in investigating the deaths and escalating concerns to senior management. The barrister representing the families, Peter Skelton KC, pointed out basic failures by the hospital and lack of proper investigations into the deaths.
The police review of care provided to babies during Letby’s tenure remains ongoing, covering her time in both hospitals. Concerns have been raised about the transparency and honesty of interactions with families post-2016. Andrew Kennedy KC, representing the hospital trust, acknowledged communication failings towards parents from 2016 onwards. Letby is currently serving life sentences after being convicted of murdering infants and attempting to murder others. The inquiry is expected to continue until early 2025 with findings due in late 2025.
The identities of the children involved in the case remain protected by a court order. The inquiry aims to shed light on the failings and potential criminality surrounding the deaths and collapses during Letby’s time as a nurse, aiming to learn from past mistakes for the wider NHS’s benefit.