Yorkshire Woman, 30, Dies from Sepsis Post-Miscarriage

Lorette attended the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield after experiencing stomach pain and a high-temperature post miscarriage. She was transferred to the gynaecology ward on admission, where a midwife suggested that she may have sepsis and would need to be reviewed by a doctor. Despite this, Lorette was never assessed.

The remains of the pregnancy were removed. Lorette was resuscitated and was taken for emergency surgery, but sadly died just nine hours later, after going into cardiac arrest.

The Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust has admitted that the care was negligent because of the failure to diagnose and treat the patient for sepsis, leading to her death. The patient was not given a blood test, or antibiotics and was not reviewed by a doctor when she ought to have been.

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition. Symptoms are like those of a flu or a chest infection. The first signs typically feature an increase in body temperature and heart rate. The symptoms can progress very quickly to a potentially life-threatening condition.

Sepsis in pregnancy and following birth, or miscarriage, is common. Sepsis in pregnancy often follows symptoms of a sore throat or other upper respiratory tract infection.

The risk of developing sepsis is increased in the following circumstances -

• After having a miscarriage

• When waters break more than 36 hours before the baby is born

• If the patient has developed a urinary tract infection

• In patients who have premature babies

• If the baby was born via caesarean section, forceps, or vacuum or if the mother has sustained a third or fourth-degree tear

How can Sepsis be prevented in pregnancy and after childbirth?

• Good personal hygiene; daily showers/baths

• Frequent maternity pad changes/ensuring that stitches are kept clean and dry

• Proper hand washing and drying especially before and after changing maternity pads

• Ensuring that the caesarean section wound is kept clean and dry

When should I contact my doctor?

Patients should contact their GP or the maternity unit immediately if they display any of the following symptoms -

• Sore throat, suspected chest infection, mucus cough

• Headache, flu-like symptoms, chills, fever

• Urinary symptoms (not able to pass urine, increased frequency, burning sensation when passing urine)

• Rash

• Vaginal discharge which is foul smelling and/or a change in colour

• Abdominal/pelvic pain

• Diarrhoea or vomiting

• Sudden increase in vaginal bleeding post-birth

• Pain/swelling of caesarean scar

Managing Suspected Sepsis in Pregnancy/Recent Pregnancy

If sepsis is suspected, healthcare providers should -

• Take microbiological and blood samples

• A senior clinical decision-maker (healthcare professional with significant experience and authority) should immediately assess the person's condition and consider alternative diagnoses

• Administer the patient an antimicrobial at the maximum recommended dose without delay, and within 1 hour, if antibiotics have not already been given for this episode of sepsis

• Ensure that antibiotics have been administered within 1 hour

• The patient should be monitored continuously, or once every 30 minutes as a minimum

Lorette Divers’ tragic death highlights the devastating consequences of a delayed diagnosis and lack of timely treatment for sepsis, a preventable and treatable condition. Her case underscores the vital importance of healthcare providers being vigilant in identifying sepsis, especially in pregnant or recently pregnant patients, where the risks are higher. Early detection and immediate treatment are crucial to saving lives. Medical professionals must follow established protocols, listen to patients’ concerns, and act swiftly when sepsis is suspected.

This case also serves as a reminder for all expectant or recent mothers to remain aware of the symptoms of sepsis and seek medical attention if they experience any signs of infection. With proper care, sepsis can be prevented and lives can be saved. The hope is that Lorette’s story will lead to improvements in healthcare practices, ensuring that no one else suffers from the same tragic fate.

If you or a loved one has suffered a stillbirth, experienced serious complications during pregnancy or labour, or believes that medical negligence has impacted your welfare, our team of solicitors is here to provide expert advice and support.