Death probe worker returns to Stafford Hospital

A member of staff suspended over the death of a 57-year-old patient at Stafford Hospital has returned to work, while another continues to be investigated by police, health bosses have revealed.

Two employees were suspended following the death of a woman from Cannock. The administration of a controlled drug while the patient was receiving critical care is at the centre of the probe. Hospital chiefs told a meeting that just one worker was now under investigation.

Speaking at the latest board meeting of the Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, members said they were unable to release any further details about the case due to the police probe.

Medical notes relating to the treatment of the patient have been handed to officers.

A report to the board meeting yesterday stated that under hospital rules, two nurses must check the preparation and administration of a controlled drug.

The report further alleged there was a "failure of staff to follow hospital policy".

The death was listed as a "serious untoward incident" in the report.

It continued: "The patient who was receiving critical care sadly died...the death was reported to HM Coroner. The coroner's office has asked the police to investigate."

A police spokesman said officers were liaising with the woman's family and staff at the hospital.

A post mortem examination proved inconclusive and police are awaiting the results of further tests to establish a cause of death.

Meanwhile Trust chief executive Lynn Hill-Tout prepares to face the public for a second time this week over the overnight closure of Stafford's accident and emergency department.

She appeared before Cannock Community Forum earlier this week, revealing the move would cost the Trust £500,000 in three months. Campaign group Support Stafford Hospital has called a public meeting at Walton High School in Walton on the Hill tonight.