Serious Incident report - Patient Property

8 July 2020

Libby McManus, QEH Chief Nurse, said: “The Trust has completed an investigation after personal belongings of some deceased patients dating back a number of years were found in our hospital. We reiterate our unreserved apology to the families and loved ones of these patients.

“Our investigation found that we regrettably failed to follow our policy regarding deceased patients’ property, however several changes have now been made to ensure the policy is adhered to in future.

“We are contacting families and loved ones to offer to return the personal belongings, some of which I am sure will have sentimental value.”

Background

We have published the findings of our investigation, our learning and the actions we have taken to prevent a recurrence. We have also made our investigation report available to the families and our regulators. LINK to report

The actions from this investigation are being monitored and overseen by our Trust Board.

We completed our investigation in April 2020, however, we did not feel it was appropriate to contact relatives during the most acute phase of COVID-19. As we come out of the first phase and peak of the pandemic we have now begun contacting families and loved ones to offer to return the personal belongings

The changes we have made in response to this incident include: training staff, regular audits to check adherence to our policy, introducing a central store and system for collation, return and disposal of patient property and revised arrangements for ensuring the safe and timely return of property to patients where this is appropriate.