Widow of Brian O’Neill, who died after a fall, doesn’t fault the 999 call handler, citing lack of training.
Brian fell and hit his head at Carbeth Hutters Community in Stirlingshire. People tried to save him, but a judge said the ambulance service failed and linked this failure to Brian’s death.
Lynda O’Neill said she doesn’t blame the worker, as the worker lacked proper training. Lynda hopes lessons get learned from this, saying it might help others, as losing Brian was devastating after they spent their whole lives together.
Brian had a stroke before and was drinking with others before he fell. Dr. Leanne Rae helped him right away and saw to his head wound. She phoned for help because of the bleeding.
The first 999 call happened, but the call handler required further checks. Elaine Noden, a trainee, called Dr. Rae back, but they did not send an ambulance to the hospital. Brian was later found on the floor and died despite efforts to save him.
Lord Young gave his judgment stating Ms. Noden failed in several duties. He said she did not properly assess Mr. O’Neill, advise a hospital visit to Dr. Rae, send an ambulance, or arrange other transport.
Lord Young stated Ms. Noden lacked training on triaging patients. A doctor gave evidence that basic wound repairs would have helped him not lose blood and die.
The ambulance service tried to avoid blame, saying Dr. Rae took responsibility. Lord Young commended Dr. Rae’s care, while Lynda describes Brian as loving, kind, and loved by everyone and expresses the family’s sadness.
Kirsty Baldassara, Brian’s eldest child, said he was kind and fun and that she deeply adored him. She said the way he died was devastating.
The Scottish Ambulance Service gave their condolences, stating they felt very sorry and expressed limits on speaking due to the nature of things. They will consider judgement implications carefully.