Calderdale Royal Hospital management have admitted they are to
blame for the death of a two-year-old boy last year.
The boy's parents told staff their son may have a serious
genetic condition but no tests were carried out. The hospital was
deemed to be guilty of medical
negligence.
medical
negligence
Luca Picone-Chiodo was born with medium-chain acyl CoA
dehydrogenase, or MCAD, which influenced his metabolic rate. He
died at home in Huddersfield on October 16 2009.
Lavinia and Salvatore, his parents, told Calderdale staff their
family had a history of MCAD. As well as carrying out no tests on
the child, staff also failed to give the couple any advice on how
to deal with their son's condition.
The condition is treatable and victims can lead a normal,
healthy life if they follow the correct dietary advice.
Babies with MCAD are unable to call upon their fat reserves to
fight off illness.
Luca, born a healthy 7lb 15oz, was sent home with his mother on
the day he was born. He stopped breathing and could not be revived
after he was washed and fed as normal two days later.
An inquest at Huddersfield Coroner's Court found the baby died
of natural causes to which neglect by the hospital trust
contributed. The family has reached a settlement with Calderdale and Huddersfield Foundation
Trust, which was not disclosed, for the pain and suffering they
have endured.
Calderdale and Huddersfield
Foundation Trust
The couple said they hope the trust learns from its
mistakes.