The family of Queensland’s youngest Covid-19 victim has lodged an official complaint against Redcliffe Hospital after the man died at home within hours of being discharged from emergency.
Lachlan Moore, 28, this month became the youngest person in the state to die with the virus, passing away in his sleep at home not long after leaving the hospital, south of Brisbane.
According to the ABC, Lachlan, who was non-verbal and born with the developmental disorder Angelman syndrome, as well as epilepsxjmtzywy and cerebral palsy, was taken to Redcliffe by ambulance on New Year’s Eve with a high fever and seizures, with the family already awaiting the results of a PCR test.
Despite showing Covid symptoms, the young man’s family alleges a rapid antigen test was declined by the hospital – being told they were reserved for intubated patients.
The ABC reported the North Lakes family was also concerned the emergency doctor who handled Lachlan did not “spend any significant time examining” him.
In the end, he was discharged from hospital and recommended antibiotics.
He died at home eight hours later.
Family told Nine News Lachlan’s PCR test returned a positive result the next day, but it was officially ruled that he died from a brain bleed as a result of his medical conditions.
“Lachlan had an x-ray that showed an upper respiratory infection. Why wasn’t that ringing alarm bells with the doctor?” Lachlan’s dad Ron Moore told Nine News.
“Why can‘t we give a $4 test to a patient that’s showing Covid symptoms? That’s not just about protecting Lachlan, that’s about protecting the staff as well.”
Mum Megan Moore told the ABC she would like to see more care given to non-verbal patients.
“Take that extra test, take that extra time, take the time to examine him properly,” she said.
“Don‘t just come in and discuss the symptoms with me and then walk back out again because you’re understaffed.
“I‘m sorry, but you’re a doctor — you have to be present with that patient when you’re with that patient, because you’ve got somebody’s life in your hands.”
Lachlan was farewelled at a funeral service at the weekend.
An internal investigation is being conducted, with the Moore family scheduled to meet with hospital directors to discuss their complaint.
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said the matter had been referred to the coroner and the family had been offered support.
