Mother’s Fears Following the Tragic Death of Her Baby

Davies and Partners Solicitors acting for a young mother in Wells Somerset are questioning the reinstatement of a midwife at Yeovil District Hospital, following the death of their client’s son from catastrophic complications during his birth in December 2009.

Their client Mrs Elliott, gave birth to her son Kurtis on 2 December.  During the protracted labour, Kurtis was starved of oxygen.  When he was born, he was diagnosed with severe brain hypoxia and respiratory distress.  He died three days later in his mother’s arms.  Following an investigation carried out initially by the Supervisor of Midwifes and the Lead Midwife and Maternity Risk Manager, the report was highly critical of the care provided to Mrs Elliott by the midwife and medical team at Yeovil District Hospital.

The main concern regards the failure of the midwife to correctly record, interpret and respond to abnormal cardiotocography (CTG) traces which are used to monitor the baby’s heart beat and the foetal contractions during labour.  This led to an inability to recognise that the baby was comprised prior to delivery, which subsequently led to a delay in delivery and in his resuscitation by a senior paediatrician.

A further report was carried out by a Consultant Anesthetist as part of the Health Authorities review which found that the tragic incident had been completely avoidable and reported that “As a team, the midwives and obstetricians failed to provide appropriate care to the patient and were hesitant to involve their senior colleagues for help which would have avoided this incident.”

It transpires that the midwife who was caring for Mrs Elliott had recently returned to her role as full-time midwife, following a period out of Midwifery. 

Specialist Clinical Negligence Lawyers at Davies and Partners Solicitors are handing the case for Mrs Elliott.  Partner Suzanne Williams said, “Our client is naturally distraught following the avoidable death of her son and she is extremely disappointed that the midwife in question was re-instated by the Trust so soon after the death of her son and despite the findings of the investigation which show clear blame on behalf of the midwife and the team who were meant to be caring for her.”

“Mrs Elliott also believes that throughout the interviews carried out with the midwife during the investigation, the midwife showed no remorse and no acceptance for her failings.  She constantly blamed other people and circumstances.  Mrs Elliott is consequently very concerned that this midwife has been reinstated to her role at the hospital.”

Suzanne Williams concludes, “This tragic incident has highlighted some serious failings on the part of the midwife.  Our client has made a complaint to the Nursing and Midwifery Council and we await their response.  This incident is all the more tragic as it could clearly have been avoided.  This case also raises broader concerns about how quickly midwifes are re-employed following a period away from the profession, the quality of training they receive on their return, and the recruitment process generally.  There is a recognised shortage of midwifes in the UK and it is hoped that this case does not illustrate a willingness to employ midwifes into roles for which they are not adequately experienced or trained, in order to fill vacant posts quickly.”

Important Notes to editor: Mrs Elliott does not wish to speak to the press directly but would be happy for any media enquiries to be handled by her Solicitor Suzanne Williams.  If you would like to speak to Suzanne, then please contact Jane Southcott 01275 852026 or 07787 527430 who will handle any interviews enquiries for you.