Tragedy as man died after leaving hospital

A self- harming man was given the all- clear by psychiatrists to leave hospital – but tragically died the next day after taking his own life.

The patient was taken to hospital after self harmingand his ex- partner even had his suicide note in her hand.

But those who examined him deemed that the patient, known only as ‘ A,’ “did not require hospital admission for psychiatric observation or detoxification” and was discharged. Clinicians did not look at the suicide note.

The patient died the following day after committing suicide.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran said the man’s death was a “tragedy” but would not elaborate further on the circumstances.

Ayr MSP John Scott said: “While it would be improper to comment on a specific case without knowing the full details, I think in general terms that most people would believe a combination of self- harm, along with a suicide note, is sufficient evidence of the need for some form of observation.”

In the wake of the tragedy, the patient’s ex- partner, who is only known as ‘ C,’ complained to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman ( SPSO) about the care and treatment her former partner received within NHS Ayrshire and Arran. The SPSO investigated the case.

In their findings they said: “We took advice on this complaint from an appropriately qualified adviser with a background as a consultant psychiatrist.

“We found that staff carried out an appropriately detailed assessment of A and made decisions that were in line with relevant guidance, based on the information available to them at the time.

“The board had previously acknowledged that the suicide note had not been reviewed by the clinicians who attended A and we agreed that this was a shortcoming. However, despite the outcome, we were satisfied that the board had provided a reasonable and appropriate level of care and treatment to A overall. Therefore, we did not uphold this aspect of the complaint.”

The SPSO also went on to say: “In respect of whether C should have been notified of A’s admission and discharge, we concluded that the board’s actions were reasonable.

“Although C was listed as A’s next of kin, A was living with their father at the time. It was reasonable for the hospital to conclude that A’s father was the most appropriate point of contact at that time. Therefore, it was reasonable for the hospital to discuss matters with A’s father rather than with C. With this in mind, we did not uphold this aspect of the complaint.”

Dr Crawford McGuffie, Medical Director at NHS Ayrshire and Arran, said: “Every suicide is a tragedy and our thoughts and condolences are with Mr A’s family.

“To respect and maintain patient confidentiality it is not possible to release any further information at this time.”

Earlier this month The Post told how latest suicide statistics showed that South Ayrshire recorded its highest number of suicides in over 10 years.

The heartbreaking data, released by the National Records of Scotland, showed 19 people in the council region took their own life last year.

That’s the highest number recorded since 22 residents died 13 years ago in 2007.

Tragic statistics from East Ayrshire also revealed 26 people committed suicide there in 2019. That was the same number as in 2018 and the joint highest recorded since 2001.

For more information about suicide prevention, visit: www. chooselife. net

Alternatively, you can call Breathing Space on 0800 838587, the Samaritans on 116 123 or Childline on 0800 1111.