Hospital Trust Admits Breach of Duty in Unborn Baby's Death
Danielle Brown was discharged from Royal Victoria Infirmary days before her daughter Maisie died, despite concerns over the baby's heart rate.
Sarah Connor
Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust admitted a breach of duty following the death of an unborn baby girl.
Danielle Brown, 31, first arrived at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary on February 12, 2023. She presented with swelling to her face, hands, and feet, receiving a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia.
A consultant obstetrician initially recommended Ms. Brown remain hospitalized. Concerns over her unborn baby's heart rate were cited. Despite this, the hospital discharged her on February 14.
The next day, Ms. Brown returned to the hospital, experiencing severe stomach cramps. She waited 90 minutes to see a doctor; a midwife told her the cramps were likely a stomach bug.
Ms. Brown claims she received the same stomach bug explanation when she phoned the RVI's maternity assessment unit with further concerns a day after her discharge. A doctor could not find the baby's heartbeat. Ms. Brown and her partner, Anthony Miller, 34, then learned their daughter Maisie had died.
Danielle Brown delivered Maisie on February 17, following a ten-hour labor. Ms. Brown stated, "When it was confirmed Maisie had died, we burst into tears. Nobody explained what had happened to Maisie. I was just given a booklet for bereaved parents and told to book a slot to give birth. Hearing that with no compassion angered me so much."
Ms. Brown claims hospital staff showed a profound lack of compassion. She received a bereavement booklet and instructions to book an appointment to give birth after her baby died. This led to diagnoses of PTSD and depression.
Ian Joy stated, "We fully accept that aspects of the care we provided fell short of the standards the family had every right to expect and offer a heartfelt apology for this." The family has since received an undisclosed settlement.
We fully accept that aspects of the care we provided fell short of the standards the family had every right to expect and offer a heartfelt apology for this.
An NHS England spokesperson called the care failings unacceptable. They stated that anyone experiencing baby loss should receive full support. The couple later welcomed their son Harrison, who is now two.