Clare Woman Dies After Delayed Sepsis Treatment Highlights Urgency for Timely Medical Care

A tragic case has emerged from Limerick, where a 33-year-old woman, Leona Cusack, died due to delayed treatment for sepsis. Her inquest revealed that her condition rapidly deteriorated after a miscarriage. The events leading to her death have highlighted the critical importance of timely medical care.

Background of the Case

Leona Cusack, from Balycasey, County Clare, was flagged for potential sepsis at two hospitals. Despite this, she did not receive the necessary antibiotics in time. Her death occurred on February 18, 2024, from cardiac respiratory failure, a condition that can be caused by sepsis.

Timeline of Events

• February 15, 2024: Leona presented at University Maternity Hospital Limerick (UMHL) with bleeding and abdominal cramps.
• February 16, 2024: After experiencing worsening symptoms, she returned to UMHL, where her elevated white blood cell count raised concerns for sepsis.
• February 17, 2024: Transferred to University Hospital Limerick (UHL) with a fast heart rate.
• February 18, 2024: Leona succumbed to her condition just days after her initial hospital visit.

Medical Oversight

The inquest found that Ms. Cusack should have received a broad spectrum of antibiotics within one hour, as per the Health Service Executive (HSE) protocols. Instead, she received a narrow spectrum of treatment initially, which did not adequately address her sepsis.

Dr. Suhaib Akhtar Birmani, a consultant gynecologist, revealed that he had flagged the sepsis infection and initiated the HSE protocols. However, these were not followed correctly at UMHL, leading to severe consequences for Ms. Cusack.

As her condition deteriorated, her blood markers indicated an extreme increase in infection levels. Dr. Cormac O’Connor, a cardiologist at UHL, stated that while the antibiotic treatment eventually escalated, it was too late to save her life. Ms. Cusack was transferred to the intensive care unit but died shortly after.

Coroner’s Verdict

The Limerick Coroner, John McNamara, described the case as complex and confirmed a breach of sepsis protocols. He refrained from labeling it a death by natural causes or medical misadventure, opting for a narrative verdict based on the evidence presented.

In a poignant moment, her husband, Conor Cusack, expressed his grief and admiration for Leona, describing her as the “love of my life.” He said she was cherished by her family and friends, highlighting the profound loss felt by all who knew her.

Conclusion

This tragic incident underscores the urgency for timely medical care, especially in cases of suspected sepsis. Leona Cusack’s story serves as a reminder of the critical need for strict adherence to medical protocols to prevent future tragedies.