Hospital Conducts Internal Investigation, Cooperates with Authorities
OAKLAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- A medical error by a nurse caused the death of an adult patient today at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, according to preliminary reports.
“This is a tragic event and our heart goes out to the family of the patient,” said Carol Weis, R.N., Chief Nursing Executive at the medical center’s Summit campus. “We have met and spoken with the family of the patient to express our sorrow and sympathy and let them know our prayers are with them.”
The hospital said it is conducting an investigation into the death and also is working with local, state and federal organizations investigating the incident.
Doctors and clinical staff were unable to revive the patient, who was pronounced dead at 1:03 a.m. The hospital immediately notified the coroner’s office of the incident.
Patient privacy laws prevent disclosure of more information, but Dr. Steve O’Brien, Vice President of Medical Affairs at the medical center, said the incident likely was caused by a medical error. The medical center activated its patient safety analysis process to review its policies and procedures for opportunities to improve and make care safer for all patients.
“While medical errors do exist in health care we are constantly investing in ways to improve patient care,” O’Brien said. “This is a most unfortunate event for which we are very sorry.”
CONTACT:
Alta Bates Summit Medical Center
Carolyn Kemp, 510-655-4000
[email protected]
KEYWORDS: United States North America California
INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Health Hospitals Nursing General Health
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