• act on the results of the ECG and chest X-ray
• consider Baby K’s history and symptoms
• ask for input from specialist staff
• escalate his care when his condition was getting worse.

If these failings had not occurred, it is likely that the Trust would have recognised that Baby K had a problem with his heart. In these circumstances he would have received the correct treatment instead of being treated for suspected pneumonia. The PSHO found that on the balance of probabilities, his cardiac arrest would not have occurred and it is more likely than not that his death would have been avoided.

The PHSO also found that the Trust was not open and accountable in its handling of Miss K’s complaint, as it failed to acknowledge and apologise for its mistakes in a timely manner. It also failed to signpost Miss K to the PSHO at the right time and in the right way.