1. Bodies decomposing in NHS hospitals inspectors
2. Bodies left to decay in NHS hospital inspections.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : Officials from the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) have raised concerns over the inadequate storage facilities and lack of freezer space in some NHS trusts, leading to bodies being left for extended periods at unsuitable temperatures.
The official HTA guidelines stipulate that bodies should be transferred to frozen storage after 30 days in fridges, or sooner depending on the body’s condition. However, reports have revealed that some NHS trusts are not adhering to these guidelines and are keeping bodies in fridges for much longer periods.
At Leeds General Infirmary, an inspection last year uncovered a concerning situation where a body had been in storage for 70 days without being moved to frozen storage, despite being released by the coroner. This body displayed signs of decomposition and soiled shrouding. Another body had been in storage for 47 days without being transferred to frozen storage, also showing signs of decomposition.
Inspectors also found issues at the Royal Blackburn Hospital, where two bodies were discovered in an advanced state of decomposition due to not being moved to frozen storage after the recommended 30 days.
Similarly, at King’s College Hospital in London, critical deficiencies were noted in the body storage facilities in 2022. The inspectors reported mouldy and infested conditions, with several adult bodies stored for more than 30 days in the fridge units, showing signs of deterioration.
In a separate inspection at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford in 2022, inadequate storage space was identified, with several bodies held in refrigerated storage for longer than recommended, showing signs of deterioration.
The Health Service Journal (HSJ) reported on at least 10 such cases across the country since 2022, where bodies had begun to deteriorate due to improper storage practices.
A spokesperson for the HTA emphasized the importance of maintaining the dignity of the deceased and ensuring compliance with standards. When deficiencies are identified, action plans for improvement are put in place, and lessons are learned.
Dr Magnus Harrison, chief medical officer at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, acknowledged the shortcomings and mentioned improved systems in place to prevent such incidents in the future.
Following an inspection report in 2022, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has expanded its mortuary provision significantly to address the issues raised.
Oxford University Hospitals also highlighted their commitment to treating patients with compassion and dignity, including after death. They mentioned the recent refurbishment and expansion of their mortuary facilities to meet the rising demand.
Overall, these reports underscore the importance of proper body storage practices in healthcare facilities and the need for increased vigilance to ensure the dignity and respect of the deceased are upheld..
– bodies left decompose NHS hospitals inspectors
– bodies left decompose NHS hospitals inspectors.
