A son expressed his disappointment with a hospital after his mother, who was terminally ill with interstitial lung disease, faced a 25-hour delay in receiving prescribed pain relief before her passing. Linda Lockett, aged 70, had been on a palliative care regimen at home, but her condition deteriorated on February 7, necessitating her admission to Royal Stoke University Hospital in Stoke-on-Trent.
During the hospitalization, medical staff discovered a significant blockage in Linda’s intestines, nearly double the size of her large intestine. Despite the severity of her condition, she had to endure more than a day without adequate pain relief. Doctors informed Linda’s son, Sean, that her chances of survival were slim, and the focus shifted to ensuring her comfort in her final days.
Sean recounted the ordeal, highlighting the delay in obtaining proper medication for his mother, who was already on oral morphine at home. The hospital staff initially only offered paracetamol for pain relief, causing distress to both Linda and her family. Sean expressed his dismay at the lack of immediate attention and proper care from the medical team, stating that the hospital’s response was inadequate given the circumstances.
In response to Sean’s concerns, the hospital’s Chief Nurse, Ann-Marie Riley, issued an apology for Linda’s experience and reassured that they are investigating the matter seriously. The hospital is actively engaging with the family to address the complaint and provide necessary support through their patient advice and liaison team.