Prevention of Future Deaths reports · 2022

Edward Akroyd

Regulation 28 report to prevent future deaths, reference 2022-0069, written 4 Mar 2022. A coroner writes one of these when an inquest reveals a risk that could cause further deaths unless something changes.

Date of report4 Mar 2022
Reference2022-0069
DeceasedEdward Akroyd
CoronerMary Burke
Coroner areaWest Yorkshire Western
CategoryChild Death (from 2015) · Hospital Death (Clinical Procedures and medical management) related deaths
Sourcejudiciary.uk record · original PDF
Responses published2

The report

Text extracted from the PDF text layer. Reproduced verbatim, including the scan's own layout.

Regulation 28: REPORT TO PREVENT FUTURE DEATHS

NOTE: This form is to be used after an inquest.

REGULATION 28 REPORT TO PREVENT DEATHS

THIS REPORT IS BEING SENT TO:

1 The Chief Executive of Calderdale And Huddersfield Foundation Trust

1

CORONER

I am Mary T. BURKEfor the coroner area of West Yorkshire Western Coroner Area

2

CORONER’S LEGAL POWERS

I make this report under paragraph 7, Schedule 5, of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009
and regulations 28 and 29 of the Coroners (Investigations) Regulations 2013.

3

INVESTIGATION and INQUEST

On 13 February 2018 I commenced an investigation into the death of Edward Arthur
AKROYD aged 4 Days. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 13
December 2021. The Narrative conclusion of the inquest was that:
Edward Arthur Akroyd was born at Calderdale Royal Hospital at 19.44 hours on 13th
January 2018 by forceps delivery.
It is likely that if during labour his mother s elevated blood pressure had been more closely
monitored and treated and closer monitoring and correct interpretation of CTG tracing
during labour had been made , it is likely that steps would have been taken to ensure his
earlier delivery.
If this had occurred, it is likely that his death at 20.45 hours on the 17th January 2018 at
Leeds General Infirmary from severe Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy would have been
prevented

4

CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE DEATH

In 2018 Edwards mother was booked to deliver her first child at the midwifery led
Huddersfield Birthing Centre. At 7.00am on the morning of the 13th January 2018 , she
attended the Centre after developing contractions.
She was later transferred at 17.15 hours to Calderdale Royal Hospital following a diagnosis
of Pre-elampsia with symptoms of elevated maternal hypertension.
She was placed under the care of both a midwife and registrar doctor who both undertook
various reviews and assessments in the ensuing hours. At 19.20 hours, the attendant
registrar detected abnormalities in the CTG tracing and determined that the delivery should
be expedited and directed that Mrs Akroyd should undergo a forceps delivery. Edward was
delivered at 19.44 hours on 13th January 2018, he was in a critical condition .
Following initial review and treatment at Calderdale Royal Hospital, Edward was transferred
to Leeds General Infirmary for further intensive review and treatment. Despite this
provision , his condition continued to give rise for concern and did not improve . Sadly his
death was confirmed at 20.45 hours on 17th January 2018 at Leeds General Infirmary

5

CORONER’S CONCERNS

During the course of the investigation my inquiries revealed matters giving rise to concern.
In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths could occur unless action is taken. In the
circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you.

Regulation 28 – After Inquest
Document Template Updated 30/07/2021

 The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows:
(brief summary of matters of concern)

please see attached sheet

6

ACTION SHOULD BE TAKEN

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you (and/or
your organisation) have the power to take such action.

7

YOUR RESPONSE

You are under a duty to respond to this report within 56 days of the date of this report,
namely by April 28, 2022. I, the coroner, may extend the period.

Your response must contain details of action taken or proposed to be taken, setting out the
timetable for action. Otherwise you must explain why no action is proposed.
COPIES and PUBLICATION

8

I have sent a copy of my report to the Chief Coroner and to the following Interested
Persons

«

and Minton morrill solicitors»

I have also sent it to

who may find it useful or of interest.

I am also under a duty to send a copy of your response to the Chief Coroner and all
interested persons who in my opinion should receive it.

I may also send a copy of your response to any person who I believe may find it useful or
of interest.

The Chief Coroner may publish either or both in a complete or redacted or summary form.
He may send a copy of this report to any person who he believes may find it useful or of
interest.

You may make representations to me, the coroner, at the time of your response about the
release or the publication of your response by the Chief Coroner.

9

Dated: 04/03/2022

Mary T. BURKE
HM Assistant Coroner for
West Yorkshire Western Coroner Area

Regulation 28 – After Inquest
Document Template Updated 30/07/2021

 1.  Whilst Mrs Akroyd  was being cared for  at Huddersfield Birthing Centre, her blood  pressure 
was  not  checked  and  fresh  eyes  review  was  not  undertaken  at  the  appropriate  time  in 
accordance with the trust guidance. I am concerned that if this were to reoccur there is a real 
risk of missed opportunities to identify significant changes which could impact upon both the 
mother and unborn baby’s wellbeing. 

2.  At  the  time  of  transfer of  care between  midwives,  following  arrival  at  Calderdale Royal 
hospital, the  attendant midwife did  not  enter a complete handover  record in  Mrs Akroyds 
notes, as she understood that it was the duty of the receiving midwife to make a record within 
the notes.  At the inquest, the same midwife who continues to practise, gave evidence that 
she remained  of  the view  that that was trust policy.  The lack  of  entry  in  the notes led  to 
confusion  and  a lack of  clarity of previously  prescribed medication I heard evidence  at the 
inquest, that the practise undertaken  by  the midwife  was not trust policy  at the  time nor 
subsequently and it is the role of the midwife handing over care to complete a medical record 
within the patients notes . I am concerned that if  complete and effective medical notes and 
records are not made, this may impact on decision making and treatment and in turn to  the 
wellbeing of expectant mothers and their unborn child. 

3.  After a  diagnosis of  pre-eclampsia was made  at Huddersfield  birthing  centre and  Prior  to 
transfer, various samples were obtained and sent for laboratory analysis, some of the results 
were received  at Huddersfield Birthing Centre and  phoned  through to  the  labour  ward at 
Calderdale Royal Hospital. From the evidence presented, the results were not passed to Mrs 
Akroyds  attendant midwife  or  treating registrar. The subsequent  internal  review  did  not 
appear to investigate and determine the reason why this did not occur. 
I am concerned that if this were to reoccur, important information may not be provided which 
could pose a risk to the wellbeing of an expectant mother and or their unborn child 
In evidence, Mrs Akroyd  attendant midwife  at Calderdale Royal Hospital did not  appear to 
acknowledge that there was a need  for her to continue to undertake regular monitoring of 
Mrs Akroyds Blood pressure in light of earlier readings and to escalate to either a doctor or 
labour ward co-ordinator, I am concerned that if similar circumstances were to re-occur, this 
poses a risk to the wellbeing of expectant mother and her unborn  child. The same midwife 
also in  evidence  appeared to  state that there was no    need to  review Mrs Akroyds  earlier 
records as a verbal  handover  had been made, once again I am concerned that if this were to 
reoccur, it may pose a risk to the wellbeing to expectant mother and child. 

4. 

5.  The  registrar who  was  seized of  Mrs  Akroyds  care following  transfer to  Calderdale Royal 
hospital, in  evidence stated that both  at the time and  also from  the position  of  hindsight,  
considered Mrs Akroyds blood  pressure both prior to and post transfer was only marginally 
elevated  and  he  based  his  treatment  plan  on  this  view.  I  heard  evidence  from  various 
consultants, that  Mrs  Akroyds  blood  pressure was  significantly  elevated,  which  required 
urgent treatment and careful review. I am concerned that if  similar circumstances were to 
reoccur, and the same clinician were to hold similar views this may pose a risk to the wellbeing 
of the expectant mother and unborn child. 

6.  The same registrar in evidence stated that he was not aware of the recommended treatment 
for elevated blood pressure at this stage of labour and that he had recognised that Mrs Akroyd 
had pre-eclampsia and that he understood that the appropriate  treatment of pre-eclampsia 
was the delivery of the baby.  I am concerned that if the same facts were to reoccur, and the 
same registrar were  to  adopt  the  same treatment plan  within  similar  time  scales,  it may 
present a risk to the wellbeing of the expectant mother and her unborn child. 

7.  The  same registrar in  evidence stated that it  was his  view    at the time and  also from  the 
position of hindsight,  that the ctg trace showed no significant cause for concern until shortly 
before  he  made  the decision  that Mrs Akroyd  Should  undergo  a  forceps delivery.  I  heard 
evidence  from  a  number  of  consultants  that  the  ctg  trace  from  shortly  after  its 
commencement was showing  non  reassuring signs which should  together with other  facts 

 have resulted in an earlier delivery of Edward and if this had occurred it is likely he would have 
survived.  
I am concerned that if  the same facts were to reoccur, and a similar interpretation of  a ctg 
trace was to be made, it poses a risk to the expectant mother and her unborn child.  

8.  The same registrar in evidence  stated that at the time he  initially  assessed Mrs Akroyd he 
expected the attendant midwife to provide to him a full verbal update and that there was no 
necessity for him to have undertaken a review of Mrs Akroyds Medical notes and records. The 
attendant midwife did not provide a comprehensive summary of Mrs Akroyds medical notes 
and records. I am concerned that if the same circumstances were to reoccur, there presents 
a risk to the expectant mother and unborn child. 

9.  The  same registrar stated in evidence  that he  was aware that samples had  been  taken at 
Huddersfield Birthing Centre but didn’t think there was a need to obtain the results to assist 
in determining an appropriate treatment plan. I am concerned that if similar circumstances 
were to reoccur it may pose a risk to the wellbeing of the expectant mother and their unborn 
child. 

10. From  the  evidence presented, and   in  accordance with  trust guidelines, a second  midwife 
should  have  undertaken  a  fresh  pair  of  eyes  review  at 18.40  hours.  this did  not  occur. I 
understand that such guidelines are put  in  place so as to ensure that key features are not 
missed and appropriate treatment plans are put in place. I am concerned that if such reviews 
do not occur it presents a risk to the wellbeing of expectant mothers and their unborn child

Responses

2 responses published against this report on judiciary.uk. A response is a body's written reply to the coroner's concerns; publication is at the discretion of the Chief Coroner's office, so an absent response does not mean nobody replied.

Response from Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust 1 (PDF)
5th  May 2022 

VIA EMAIL 

Ms Mary Burke 
HM Assistant Coroner 
West Yorkshire- Western Division 
City Courts 
The Tyrls 
Bradford 
BD1 1LA 

Dear Ms Burke, 

REGULATION  28:  RESPONSE TO  REPORT TO  PREVENT  FUTURE DEATHS ARISING  FROM 
THE DEATH OF EDWARD ARTHUR AKROYD 

Thank  you  for  your  letter  dated  4th  March  2021  enclosing  a  Regulation  28  report  following  your 
investigation into the death of Edward Arthur Akroyd. 

I am sorry to note that evidence raised a number of concerns and hope that the responses below 
will provide you with reassurance of the steps already taken by the Trust to improve patient safety 
and  minim.ise the  risk  of  future deaths.  Addressing  your concerns individually  (and  adopting  your 
numbering): 

1 

Whilst  Mrs  Akroyd  was  being  cared  for  at  Huddersfield  Birthing  Centre,  her  blood 
pressure  was  not  checked,  and  fresh  eyes  review  was  not  undertaken  at  the 
appropriate  time  in  accordance  with  the  trust  guidance.  I  am  concerned  that  if  this 
were  to  reoccur  there  is  a  real  risk  of  missed  opportunities  to  identify  significant 
changes which could impact upon both the mother and unborn baby’s wellbeing. 

There  are  two  issues  here,  although  the  concern  with  both  is  actions  not  being  taken  in 
accordance with timings in  Guidance. It  is important to  say that  care in labour  should be a 
holistic process and that here are times when one aspect of care may take precedence over 
another even if that means the timings in guidelines are not strictly followed. 

The first issue relates to checking maternal blood pressure. The Trust’s Guidelines for both 
the latent phase of labour and normal birth in place at the time state, as now, that maternal 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 blood pressure should be recorded at least four hourly. This is in line with NICE Guidance, 
last updated in 2014. 

The  first  maternal  observations,  including  blood  pressure,  were  taken  at  07.40,  the  next 
would be by 11.40 and the one after that by 15.40. In fact, the next set of observations were 
taken at 10.57, some 43 minutes earlier than the end of the 4 hour window. That would mean 
the next observations would be re-timed to before 14.57. 

At 14.46 the birthing pool was being filled at Mrs Akroyd’s request and between 15.00 and 
15.58 various steps in urinary care were being undertaken. Other clinical care was therefore 
being given within the time period in which maternal observations, including blood pressure 
should  have  been  repeated  under  the  Guidelines.  Urinary  care  is  an  important  part  of  the 
holistic care of the mother. There is not always time to do everything all at once. 

The observations, including blood pressure, were in fact repeated at 16.05. Although this was 
just over  1 hour later than the end of the 4 hour window  from the  previous observations,  it 
was only 25 minutes later than it would have been if the previous observations had not been 
done early. The blood pressure reading obtained was raised for the first time. The evidence 
at  the  inquest  was  that  it  could  not  be  said  the  blood  pressure  would  have  been  raised  if 
taken  earlier,  and  it  can rise  quickly.  Therefore,  in  this  case,  had the  blood  pressure  been 
taken  in  line  with  the  guidance  the  first  raised  blood  pressure  may  well  not  have  been 
identified until 3 hours later than it in fact was. 

The above illustrates the point that, while Guidance is based on best evidence of appropriate 
time intervals, the ability of observations to detect issues is somewhat arbitrary. 

The second issue is the fresh eyes review. The Trust’s Maternity Services regularly review 
and update local guidelines. 

The service has also developed a Standard Operating Procedure for Fresh Eyes review in 
Labour in the Birth Centre. The SOP states: for women in labour the clinical review including 
fresh eyes is to be performed at HOURLY intervals or sooner if there are identified concerns 
or until the second stage of labour is identified. 

In  terms  of  disseminating  guidance,  refreshing  the  knowledge  of  staff  and  monitoring 
compliance:  All  new  and  revised  guidelines  are  placed  on  the  Trust’s  intranet  and  are 
available at any time electronically. The weekly Maternity Risk Management Newsletter will 
have a notice about new or revised guidelines. The compulsory annual Obstetric Emergency 
Training Day contains reminders about these guidelines. 

All Midwives also have compulsory annual training on monitoring CTGs, which also covers 
the guidelines on monitoring the mother. 

The implementation is monitored through the Trust’s system of weekly Maternity Governance 
Meetings.  Those  meetings  include  senior  management  and  clinical  staff  and  review  any 
cases falling within a range of incidents. All cases involving the relevant criteria are reviewed 
irrespective  of  whether  harm  actually  occurred  to  mother  or  baby.  Part  of  that  review  is 
consideration  of  whether  applicable  guidance,  including  monitoring,  was  followed.  If  any 
issues  are  identified  there  is  a  process  to  feedback  to  individual  staff  members  and  more 
widely across the maternity services. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 2 

At the time of transfer of care between midwives, following arrival at Calderdale Royal 
hospital,  the  attendant  midwife  did  not  enter  a  complete  handover  record  in  Mrs 
Akroyds notes, as she understood that it was the duty of the receiving midwife to make 
a record within the notes.  At the inquest, the same midwife who continues to practise, 
gave evidence that she remained of the view that that was trust policy. 

The  lack  of  entry  in  the  notes  led  to  confusion  and  a  lack  of  clarity  of  previously 
prescribed medication I heard evidence at the inquest, that the practise undertaken by 
the midwife was not trust policy at the time nor subsequently and it is the role of the 
midwife handing over care to complete a medical record within the patients notes. 

I am concerned that if complete and effective medical notes and records are not made, 
this  may  impact  on  decision  making  and  treatment  and  in  turn  to  the  wellbeing  of 
expectant mothers and their unborn child. 

This process remains the same. It is the responsibility of the transferring midwife to complete 
a documented structured (SBAR) handover in the clinical records, as well as giving a verbal 
handover. Since 2018 the Trust has done a lot of work within the Maternity Service and more 
widely on SBAR handovers, including what to document; where to put the information in the 
computer records and how to access the information. There is now a specific designated part 
of the computer records for the recording of the information. 

Insofar as this concern relates to a particular Midwife the Trust can confirm that the Head of 
Midwifery  met  with  the  midwife  concerned  who  has  reflected  on  her  understanding  of  the 
necessity for a documented handover of care along with a verbal handover of care. The Head 
of Midwifery reiterated that the guidance in this area has never changed and it has always 
been a requirement that  the handover of  care is documented by the midwife  handing over 
care. The midwife  has reflected that it would be useful for her to refresh her training in the 
use  of  the  Guardian  Intrapartum  element  of  the  maternity  electronic  patient  record.  For 
personal  reasons  the  midwife  in  question  has  not  yet  undertaken  this  training  but  will  be 
supported to do so as soon as she is in a position to do so. 

3 

After a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia was made at Huddersfield birthing centre and Prior 
to transfer, various samples were obtained and sent for laboratory analysis, some of 
the results were received at Huddersfield Birthing Centre and phoned through to the 
labour ward at Calderdale Royal Hospital. 

From the evidence presented, the results were not passed to Mrs Akroyds attendant 
midwife  or  treating  registrar.  The  subsequent  internal  review  did  not  appear  to 
investigate and determine the reason why this did not occur. 

I am concerned that if this were to reoccur, important information may not be provided 
which could pose a risk to the wellbeing of an expectant mother and or their unborn 
child. 

It should be noted that there was no diagnosis of pre-eclampsia at the Huddersfield Birthing 
Centre.  High  blood  pressure  was  recognised.  Nevertheless,  the  results  of  the  blood  tests 
should have been accurately passed on. It was not felt possible to pursue the matter in the 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 4 

5 

Trust’s  SI  investigation  because  it  was  not  possible  to  identify  the  person  to  whom  the 
information was said to have been given at Calderdale Royal Hospital. 

The computer system for reporting results has changed since 2018. As soon as results are 
put  on  to  the  laboratory  computer  system  those  results  are  pulled  through  to  the  primary 
patient  record  and  can  then  be  seen  on  the  “home”  screen  of  the  Trust  wide  system.  Any 
doctor or midwife can therefore check on the blood test results, including remote access, for 
example,  an  on  call  consultant  accessing  the  system  from  home.  This  means  there  is  no 
need for the results to be phoned through or passed on verbally. 

In evidence, Mrs Akroyd attendant midwife at Calderdale Royal Hospital did not appear 
to  acknowledge  that  there  was  a  need  for  her  to  continue  to  undertake  regular 
monitoring of Mrs Akroyds Blood pressure in light of earlier readings and to escalate 
to  either  a  doctor  or  labour  ward  co-ordinator,  I  am  concerned  that  if  similar 
circumstances were to re-occur, this poses a risk to the wellbeing of expectant mother 
and her unborn child. 

The same midwife also in evidence appeared to state that there was no need to review 
Mrs Akroyds earlier records  as a  verbal  handover  had  been  made,  once  again I  am 
concerned that if this were to reoccur, it may pose a risk to the wellbeing to expectant 
mother and child. 

The Head of Midwifery met with the midwife concerned and is assured that she has reflected 
on this case. The Head of Midwifery also commissioned a review of the role specific safety 
training  undertaken  by  the  midwife  since  this  incident  occurred  and  can  confirm  that  the 
midwife has completed the fetal wellbeing training package (K2) annually, has completed the 
Obstetric  Emergency  training  (PROMPT)  annually  and  has  also  completed  the  Maternal 
Advanced  Illness  Management  training  programme  in  2020.  The  Head  of  Midwifery  also 
commissioned a review of high risk cases that the midwife has provided care for since this 
incident and is assured about her practice and that the midwife has learnt from this incident. 

The Trust has no concerns about this midwife. 

The  registrar  who  was  seized  of  Mrs  Akroyds  care  following  transfer  to  Calderdale 
Royal hospital, in evidence stated that both at the time and also from the position of 
hindsight, considered Mrs Akroyds blood pressure both prior to and post transfer was 
only  marginally  elevated  and  he  based  his  treatment  plan  on  this  view.  I  heard 
evidence from various consultants, that Mrs Akroyds blood pressure was significantly 
elevated, which required  urgent treatment and careful review. I am concerned that if 
similar  circumstances  were  to  reoccur,  and  the  same  clinician  were  to  hold  similar 
views this may pose a risk to the wellbeing of the expectant mother and unborn child. 

Concerns 5 to 9 relate to the same Registrar and so the response to this concern in relation 
to  the  doctor’s reflection and  practice should  also  be read as applying to the responses to 
concerns 6 to 9, with the addition of specific relevant information. 

This  was  the  doctor’s  first  inquest,  and  he  acknowledges  that  he  found  the  experience 
confusing as well as intimidating to a degree. He was recalling events that had taken place 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 almost  4  years  before  and  did  not  intend  to  give  the  impression  that  his  practice  has  not 
changed. 

He has reflected on this case with his clinical  supervisors and with a number of consultant 
colleagues.  He  has  had  annual  appraisals  and  undergone  the  vigorous  process  of 
assessment and was awarded a CESR certificate and recognised on the specialist register 
by the GMC on 30 November 2020. Since his involvement in Mrs Akroyd’s care, he has since 
progressed to a substantive Consultant post at the Trust. 

He has safely practised obstetrics for the last 4 years since this event without any concerns 
or  adverse  outcomes.  The  Trust  have  reviewed  a  number  of  cases  relating  to  his 
management  of  women  with  preeclampsia  in  labour  as  well  as  cases  with  abnormal  CTG 
and  no  concerns  have  been  identified.  The  Trust  are  satisfied  with  his  competency  and 
current practice. 

In  relation  to the management of  blood pressure and pre-eclampsia the doctor is aware of 
current  guidelines  for  the  management  of  patients  with  severe  pre-eclampsia  and,  as  a 
Consultant in Calderdale Royal Hospital, has treated patients with pre-eclampsia without any 
concerns  with  his  management.  He  attended  the  Managing  Obstetric  Emergencies  and 
Trauma (MOET) course in 2017 which provides training and awareness around recognition, 
resuscitation  and  treatment  of  emergencies  in  patients  with  the  altered  physiology  and 
anatomy  of  pregnancy.  Since  them,  he  has  attended  annual  Practical  Obstetric  Multi-
Professional Training (PROMPT) Training organised by the Trust since joining the Trust and 
is competent in the management of pre-eclampsia. 

The  same  registrar  in  evidence  stated  that  he  was  not  aware  of  the  recommended 
treatment  for  elevated  blood  pressure  at  this  stage  of  labour  and  that  he  had 
recognised  that  Mrs  Akroyd  had  pre-eclampsia  and  that  he  understood  that  the 
appropriate treatment of pre-eclampsia was the delivery of the baby.  I am concerned 
that if the same facts were to reoccur, and the same registrar were to adopt the same 
treatment plan within similar time scales, it may present a risk to the wellbeing of the 
expectant mother and her unborn child. 

Please see the response to concern 5 above. 

The same registrar in evidence stated that it was his view at the time and also from the 
position of hindsight, that the CTG trace showed no significant cause for concern until 
shortly  before  he  made  the  decision  that  Mrs  Akroyd  Should  undergo  a  forceps 
delivery.  I  heard  evidence  from  a  number  of  consultants  that  the  CTG  trace  from 
shortly  after  its  commencement  was  showing  non  reassuring  signs  which  should 
together with other facts have resulted in an earlier delivery of Edward and if this had 
occurred it is likely he would have survived. 

I am concerned that if the same facts were to reoccur, and a similar interpretation of a 
CTG  trace  was  to  be  made,  it  poses  a  risk  to  the  expectant  mother  and  her  unborn 
child. 

Please see the response to concern 5 above. 

6 

7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 8 

9 

10 

Additionally,  the  doctor has  completed appropriate  CTG  courses over  the  last  4 years and 
has  remained  up  to  date  with  his  K2-CTG  training.  He  has  also  attended  advanced  CTG 
interpretation courses to improve his understanding of CTG interpretation and acumen. 

The same registrar in evidence stated that at the time he initially assessed Mrs Akroyd 
he expected the attendant midwife to provide to him a full verbal update and that there 
was no necessity for him to have undertaken a review of Mrs Akroyds Medical notes 
and records. The attendant midwife did not provide a comprehensive summary of Mrs 
Akroyds  medical notes and records. I  am  concerned  that if the same circumstances 
were to reoccur, there presents a risk to the expectant mother and unborn child. 

Please see the response to concern 5 above. 

Additionally, the doctor has attended communication skills courses. He has made changes 
to  his practice adopting a more pro-active approach to reviewing and checking information 
when taking handovers. 

The same registrar stated in evidence that he was aware that samples had been taken 
at Huddersfield Birthing Centre but didn’t think there was a need to obtain the results 
to assist in determining an appropriate treatment plan. I am concerned that if similar 
circumstances  were  to  reoccur  it  may  pose  a  risk  to  the  wellbeing  of  the  expectant 
mother and their unborn child. 

Please see the responses to concerns 5 and 8 above and also the change in the way in which 
tests results are now made available, in the response to concern 3. 

From  the  evidence  presented,  and  in  accordance  with  trust  guidelines,  a  second 
midwife  should  have  undertaken  a fresh pair of  eyes  review  at 18.40 hours.  this  did 
not occur. I understand that such guidelines are put in place so as to ensure that key 
features  are  not  missed  and  appropriate  treatment  plans  are  put  in  place.  I  am 
concerned  that  if  such  reviews  do  not  occur  it  presents  a  risk  to  the  wellbeing  of 
expectant mothers and their unborn child. 

A fresh eyes assessment should be undertaken by a second person qualified to assess the 
CTG. This does not have to be a midwife, an Obstetrician at registrar level would be regarded 
as  suitably  qualified  to  undertake  a  fresh  eyes  assessment.  In  this  case  the  Registrar 
reviewed Mrs Akroyd at 18.53. This was however 13 minutes later than the best practice of 
60 minutes. 

For the reasons given in response to concern 4 above the Head of Midwifery is satisfied the 
midwife concerned is requesting fresh eyes reviews appropriately. 

I do hope that I have addressed your concerns and that I have reassured you that the steps taken 
by  the  Trust  will  prevent  the  recurrence  of  a  similar  set  of  circumstances  as  those  in  the  case  of 
Edward Akroyd. 

Should you have any further questions arising from the contents of this letter, please do not hesitate 
to  contact me. I am  again sorry that  your  investigation  into this death caused you such significant 
concern to issue a Regulation 28 Report and hope that you are now reassured. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Yours Sincerely 

Deputy Chief Executive 
Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust 

[5th  May 2022]
Response from Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust 2 (PDF)
5th  May 2022 

VIA EMAIL 

Ms Mary Burke 
HM Assistant Coroner 
West Yorkshire- Western Division 
City Courts 
The Tyrls 
Bradford 
BD1 1LA 

Dear Ms Burke, 

Representations  as  to  Publication  of  this  Response  in  accordance  with  the  Chief 
Coroners Revised Guidance (No.5) Reports to Prevent Future Deaths 

Further  to  our  letter  of  response  dated  27  April  2022  and  in  accordance  with  the  Chief 
Coroners  Revised  Guidance  (No.5)  Reports  to  Prevent  Future  Deaths,  the  Trust  seek  to 
make  repreparations  as  to  the  publication  of  your  concerns  and  the  Trusts  subsequent 
response. 

As  concerns  and  responses  relating  to  2,  4,  5,  6,  7,  8  ,9  and  10  refer  to  individual  clinical 
staff, the Trust feel at least in part, detailed steps taken by and in relation to those individual 
members  of  staff  should  be  redacted  as  the  concerns,  coupled  with  the  evidence  at  the 
inquest, would easy identify the staff involved. 

The  Trust  respectfully  request  that  insofar  as  the  concerns  and  responses  relate  to 
individuals who could be identified they should not be published. This contains very specific 
and  personal  information  and  publication,  and  identification  could  be  very  damaging  to  the 
individuals  in  circumstances  where  the  responses  set  out  the  measures  they  have  taken  in 
terms  of  reflection  and  education.  Notwithstanding,  the  Trust  is  satisfied  as  to  competence 
or, in one case, is facilitating further training as the member of staff returns to work. 

In  the  circumstances,  the  Trust  would  request  that  Concern  2  be  summarised  to  say  it 
relates to the process of handover and only the first paragraph of the response is published. 
With  regards  to  concerns  and  responses  relating  to  4,  5,  6,  7,  8  and  9,  the  Trust  requests 
that this not be published. 

The Trust further requests that the second paragraph of the Response to Concern 10 is also 
not published. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 We hope you understand our request and will consider the same. 

Yours Sincerely 

Deputy Chief Executive 

Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust 

[5th  May 2022]

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