Nursing Error at Akademiska Hospital Leads to Elderly Patient's Death

In summer 2023, an elderly female patient at Akademiska Hospital tragically died due to a serious nursing error involving the mismanagement of a nutritional infusion pump. The prescribed infusion was meant to be administered over twelve hours but was mistakenly programmed by a nurse to run over just one hour.

When the infusion pump alarm signaled a malfunction, the nurse restarted the device without investigating the cause, contributing to the patient's death. This improper administration caused a fat embolism in the patient's lung which proved fatal.

The nurse involved has admitted to the sequence of events but denies criminal wrongdoing. Despite this, the deputy chief prosecutor, Anna Maria Larsson, has confirmed charges have been filed against the nurse for causing another person’s death. The nurse’s lawyer has chosen not to comment on the allegations at this time.

Authorities continue to review the case which highlights critical concerns about medical safety procedures at the hospital. The incident has raised awareness regarding the importance of correctly programming infusion devices and responding appropriately to alarms. Akademiska Hospital has been contacted for further comment but no additional statements have been made publicly.

This case underscores the severe consequences that can arise from human error in healthcare settings, emphasizing the need for stringent protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.