29 August 2019
“The circumstances of Fred’s death have highlighted a concerning norm in aged care: staffing to patient ratios administered at minimalistic levels which places the delivery of appropriate care at risk” – Victorian coroner Audrey Jamieson
A coronial investigation into what John Reimers family were told was a ‘freak accident’ has uncovered that the aged care resident spent his final 45 minutes with his head trapped in a drawer.
“I find clear and cogent evidence that the death of John Frederick Reimers was preventable,” the Victorian Coroner found. “He was not removed promptly from the perilous position in the bottom of his bedside drawers by those responsible for his care.”
In her findings Ms Jamieson said Mr Reimer’s care was compromised by the lack of a Registered Nurse on site. For the full story, visit:
theage.com.au.