Infant Journal
Browse articlesWhen should a neonatal death be referred to the coroner? Initiation of a guideline to aid decision making
Despite improved survival, particularly for extremely preterm infants, sadly some neonates die. When this happens, it may be appropriate to refer the death to the coroner, however, there is huge variation in practice between settings regarding the coroner referral process. After a particular case concerning several hospitals, we reviewed available evidence and produced a guideline to aid this process, involving both neonatologists and our coroner’s office, and including parental concerns. This has enabled a systematic, transparent approach that is equal for all infants.
Narendra AladangadyFRCPCH, PhD
Consultant Neonatologist and Honorary Clinical Professor in Child Health, Neonatal Unit, Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, and Queen Mary University of London
n.aladangady@nhs.net
Philippa Chisholm
FRCPCH
Consultant Neonatologist, Neonatal Unit, Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London
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- Mortality risk varies greatly by day-of-life for extremely preterm infants.
- Parents have a right to accurate and
- up-to-date information, but it is unclear how this should be communicated.
- Including changing mortality rates over time in regional and national information leaflets for parents of extremely preterm infants could be considered.
