A tragic incident occurred at Withybush General Hospital resulting in the death of Ruth Susan Coles due to complications from an ascending aortic aneurysm. An inquest highlighted significant hospital delays that may have influenced the outcome on the day of her passing.
Ruth Coles, aged 77, resided in Gibbas Way, Pembroke Dock with her husband Roy. She had experienced some medical issues, including a hiatus hernia, and had retired early from her job as a carer. Despite this, she was generally in good health. On May 16, 2022, Ruth felt unwell during breakfast, experiencing chest pains that she initially attributed to her existing condition. After collapsing and receiving medical attention, it was discovered that she had an ascending aortic aneurysm.
Upon calling emergency services, paramedics arrived promptly, and Ruth was taken to Withybush Hospital for assessment. Despite the availability of a CT scan, there were significant delays in conducting the procedure, with clinicians mistakenly believing that the equipment was not functioning. Subsequent findings revealed the urgent need for transfer to Morriston Hospital’s cardiac unit due to the aortic aneurysm.
Tragically, Ruth’s condition deteriorated while awaiting transfer, leading to a cardiac arrest and her passing at 3.50 am on May 17, 2022. The acting senior coroner, Paul Bennett, stated that timely diagnosis and transfer could have potentially altered the outcome. The inquest concluded with a narrative verdict highlighting the significance of prompt medical intervention in such cases to potentially prevent fatal consequences.
This heartbreaking incident sheds light on the importance of timely and efficient healthcare responses in critical situations. Ruth’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of delays in diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the need for improved protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.