Concerns over Wigan Infirmary staffing levels highlighted after woman's death

Weekend staffing levels at Wigan Infirmary have come under scrutiny at the inquest of a woman who died two days after a hernia operation.
Margaret Gleeson who died after a routie hernia operation at Wigan InfirmaryMargaret Gleeson who died after a routie hernia operation at Wigan Infirmary
Margaret Gleeson who died after a routie hernia operation at Wigan Infirmary

Bolton Coroner’s Court heard the family of Margaret Gleeson had serious concerns about her condition when they visited on the afternoon of October 3 last year.

Staff nurse Zuzana Smolkova admitted it was more difficult to get doctors to see patients at weekends.

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This came after a doctor admitted staff levels at weekends were “a major concern”.

Lawyers for Mrs Gleeson’s family also asked nurses if their observations on October 3 has underestimated her condition and if more urgent medical reviews should have been triggered.

The court heard Mrs Gleeson was vomiting, pale and clammy on that day and required the use of a catheter.

The inquest was told she was prepared for surgery on a suspected perforated bowel in the early hours of October 4.

A conclusion is expected tomorrow.