Woman Dies of Respiratory Failure After Delayed Sepsis Treatment

A 33-year-old woman from County Clare, Leona Cusack, died from cardiac respiratory failure after delayed treatment for sepsis, an inquest revealed. She succumbed on February 18, 2024, after experiencing a miscarriage just a day prior. The inquest, which took place at the Limerick Coroner’s Court, determined that timely administration of antibiotics could have potentially saved her life.

Delayed Sepsis Treatment Details

Leona’s case highlighted serious breaches in the Health Service Executive’s (HSE) sepsis protocol. Initially admitted to University Maternity Hospital Limerick (UMHL) on February 15, she was diagnosed with a high white blood cell count and severe symptoms including vomiting. Despite being flagged for sepsis by Dr. Suhaib Akhtar Birmani, a consultant at UMHL, she was not prescribed the critical “broad spectrum” antibiotics within the required hour.

Hospital Visits and Deterioration

• February 15: Leona arrives at UMHL with bleeding and abdominal cramps.
• February 16: She returns to UMHL after worsening symptoms.
• February 17: Transferred to University Hospital Limerick (UHL) after significant deterioration.

Despite rising blood markers indicative of sepsis, the broader antibiotics only began on February 17 but were deemed insufficient as Leona’s condition had escalated critically. Her cardiologist, Dr. Cormac O’Connor, acknowledged the breach of protocol and expressed regret for the emotional distress caused to Leona’s family during the inquest.

Findings from the Inquest

The inquest concluded that Ms. Cusack’s death resulted from cardiac respiratory failure due to neutrophilic myocarditis, a rare condition linked to sepsis. The coroner, John McNamara, described the case as complex and expressed dissatisfaction with simply labeling it a natural death or medical mishap.

Family Tributes

Following the verdict, Leona’s family expressed their grief. Her husband, Conor, paid a heartfelt tribute, describing her as the “nicest, bubbliest person.” He emphasized the love she shared with her family and friends, stating, “She was loved by everyone.”

This tragic case underscores the critical importance of adhering to medical protocols, particularly in treating conditions as serious as sepsis. The family’s sorrow reflects a broader concern about patient care standards and safety in healthcare settings.