HSE probe into second baby death at Cavan hospital in two weeks
The Health Service Executive has launched the second investigation in as many weeks following the death of a baby's death this morning at Cavan General Hospital.
In a statement released by the HSE this afternoon, they confirm a baby born at the hospital yesterday died there today.
'The HSE can confirm that a baby born on Tuesday 13th May 2014 died in Cavan General Hospital this morning, Wednesday 14th May, 2014', the statement read.
A full review of all the circumstances surrounding the death will now be carried out, the HSE say, adding that the Cavan and Monaghan Hospital management offer their deepest sympathy to the family on their tragic loss.
The HSE added that management at the hospital hope the family of child will now be given 'the privacy that they need to deal with their grief. The hospital will give the family every assistance and support required.'
Today's death is the second such incident where a baby has died at the hospital shortly after being delivered there.
A separate investigation is currently being carried out following the death of a newborn baby last month. That death in occurred following a delay in carrying out a scheduled caesarean section. Some of the circumstances from the death in April mirror an incident in which a child tragically died in late 2012. That investigation has not yet concluded.
Following a request from the family, the HSE has said it will be making no further comment in relation to the death in April, and have said the family has also appealed for privacy to mourn the loss of their baby.
Meanwhile, in a separate matter, the HSE has confirmed that a Consultant in the Cavan Monaghan Hospital Group has had restrictions placed on their practice pending a full clinical review.
The review, initiated in line with HSE policy, it has been stressed, is not indicative of any finding of fault and is said to be 'solely a precautionary measure pending the outcome of the review.'
'Where there is a query or an allegation in relation to any staff member's competence or ability to practice, patient safety is always the first priority. Hospitals have in place procedures which they follow should such an issue arise, which can include a staff member being taken off duty or having practice restricted', a HSE statement to The Anglo-Celt said.
'Any such issues or allegations are thoroughly reviewed in line with HSE policy. If shortcomings are identified following review, the appropriate steps are taken.'
The HSE confirmed, via a spokesperson to The Irish Independent, that a “clinical incident” occurred in which a baby sadly died. The spokesperson also said the HSE Incident Management policy is being followed and a full and a thorough investigation into this tragic event is now underway.
She said the hospital 'extends it's deepest sympathy to the family. Hospital management has met with the family and will continue to keep them informed of the ongoing management of the incident investigation.'
The spokewoman said the grieving family has requested privacy at this time and has asked to media not to contact them at this very difficult and distressing time.
The investigation team will also examine a range of other issues including hospital guidelines as well as staffing levels and operating theatre availability.