Rohan Godhania
9 Aug 2023 · Coroner Tom Osborne · Milton Keynes
The coroner's concerns
1. inconsistent age classification of teenagers 16-18 in NHS
“There seems to be a lack of clarity and consistent guidance across the NHS regarding the appropriate classification of teenagers aged 16-18. The question of whether they should be treated as paediatric patients or adults is leading to confusion and potential disparities in the care provided. I consider that this should be urgently reviewed by NHS England and if necessary the guidance on age classification updated ensuring that all healthcare providers adhere to a unified approach emphasising the”
2. lack of guidance for ammonia testing in emergency departments
“The other concerning issue that requires immediate attention is the lack of guidance for testing ammonia levels in patients who present in extremis with an unknown cause . Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential in such cases to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent unnecessary deaths. The guideline should include clear protocols for conducting ammonia tests, interpreting the results and making informed clinical decisions based on the findings. The guidance should be disseminated to all”