Doncaster Royal Infirmary Patient Required Leg Amputation Following Accidental Disinfectant Injection

An accidental injection of disinfectant in to a patient's leg resulted in an amputation at Doncaster Royal Infirmary (DRI), a new report has revealed.

The incident in 2013, involving a woman named only as 'Gina', is detailed in a report by MPs into the work of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. The report called for a new independent body to be established to investigate clinical failures and transform the “safety culture of the NHS”.

The investigation into the accident involving ‘Gina’ is now used as an example of good practice within the NHS, as it is used to help make sure lessons are learned from problems.

Sewa Singh, Medical Director at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals, said: "Patient safety is at the forefront of everything we do at DBH and if there are any mistakes we make sure that we carry out a thorough investigation, share the findings with patients and their families and ensure Trust wide learning."

The MP's report found the NHS ombudsman was largely reluctant to admit mistakes when investigating patients' complaints. The report calls for a new independent body to investigate clinical failings to change the safety culture within the NHS.

Expert Opinion

While it is shocking to hear of this incident, it is welcome to hear how two years on it is continues to be raised as an important reminder on the issue of patient safety and the need to investigate treatment and care failings in a full and comprehensive manner. <br/> <br/>“Sadly, this story is very similar to many cases which we come across, when patients have suffered serious life-changing injuries or some situations died as a result of issues which should have been avoided. <br/> <br/>“Following this report, it is key that NHS Trusts across the country understand and recognise the important lessons which can be learned from such incidents, with the ultimate aim of ensuring they simply never happen again.” <br/> <br/>“It is also worth noting that serious concerns have also been raised by the Healthcare Ombudsman’s apparent reluctance to admit mistakes when investigating concerns raised by patients and their families. It is vital action is also taken on this issue." Julianne Moore - Partner