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Wednesday, Aug 05, 2026

Misread Notes Lead to UK Retired Nurse's Death in Overcrowded Hospital

A UK court ruled that neglect led to the death of 73-year-old Pat Dawson, a retired nurse, in September 2021 at Royal Blackburn Hospital.
The hospital mistakenly checked the wrong patient's notes, which had a "do not resuscitate" order, leading to Dawson not receiving necessary treatment for her suspected bowel obstruction.

Dawson, who had worked in the NHS for 30 years, was enjoying her retirement before her unexpected hospitalization.

A retired nurse, Ms. Dawson, visited the A&E department with her son when it was already categorized as overcapacity and overstretched.

Due to the overwhelming pressure, she was taken to the Resus area.

Sadly, hours later, she was pronounced dead.

An inquest revealed that Ms. Dawson could have survived if medics hadn't mistakenly checked the wrong patient's notes, which had a "do not resuscitate" order.

Her son, John, expressed his disbelief and anger in a statement, stating that his mother was failed not only by one individual but also by doctors who had taken an oath to do no harm.

A 73-year-old woman, Ms. Dawson, waited for an extended period in her hospital bed unable to use the toilet due to nurses not returning with a commode.

Her son eventually helped her to the bathroom where he found her unresponsive with dark fluid coming from her mouth and no pulse.

Hospital staff performed CPR, resulting in a return of spontaneous circulation.
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