A Northern Beaches kindergartener has tragically died at Northern Beaches Hospital this week after contracting influenza A (the flu). She had been discharged twice from Sydney Children’s Hospital earlier that day.
A Northern Beaches Hospital spokesperson confirmed that the tragic death of the child, who we understand to be a six year old girl, will be subject to a Coronial Inquest.
The girl was initially taken to Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, and was discharged only to be re-presented by her father a short time later. She was then diagnosed with influenza and discharged again.
The child was later brought to Northern Beaches Hospital, where she later died.
It has left a tight school community in shock as they support her bereft parents, who we understand advocated for her care persistently. We have elected to withhold details of the school and family at this time, and will update if permission is given to provide these details.
Hospitals respond
A Northern Beaches Hospital spokesperson told Manly Observer this evening, via a statement, that they were “deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a young child.”
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the child’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
“Alongside Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, where the child received care earlier in the day, we will undertake the appropriate investigations in line with NSW Health policy, including a joint independent review. A coronial inquest has also been called into the child’s passing.”
“While we cannot comment on the specifics of the case during the review period, our thoughts are with the family, and we will continue to offer them our full support.”
The Sydney Children’s Hospital confirmed that the patient had been discharged twice on Monday, 4 August. They said a patient “presented to the Emergency Department at Sydney Children’s SCHN and Following clinical assessment, the child was discharged.”
The statement continues: “The patient represented shortly after, and following a diagnosis of influenza, was discharged with at-home guidance.
“Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network (SCHN) has learnt the patient later tragically died.
“SCHN expresses our deepest condolences to the family for the loss of their child.
“SCHN is progressing an initial review into the patient’s care while at the hospital. Based on this initial review, SCHN will work with Northern Sydney Local Health District as part of the joint independent clinical governance process.”
The matter has been referred to the Coroner.
Internal reviews are usually conducted within 100 days.
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