HSIB investigates oxygen issues during the COVID-19 pandemic

The Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch (HSIB) have launched a national investigation into the provision of piped oxygen gas supplies to hospitals.

During the COVID-19 pandemic there has been an increased demand for oxygen gas on hospital wards, with more patients needing oxygen therapy. Insufficient oxygen supply to seriously ill patients can have very severe consequences, including death.

The investigation is examining a major incident that took place at an acute hospital. Demands on their oxygen supply led to patients being diverted to other hospitals. In addition, patients were also transferred between clinical environments.

As part of HSIB's final investigation report, they will make safety recommendations to the appropriate national bodies in order to improve patient safety.

Read full story

Source: HSIB, 15 January 2021