Tragic Loss at A&E: A Heartbreaking Tale
Clarissa Street, a vibrant 24-year-old University of Manchester grad, tragically passed away in 2024 following an unthinkable oversight at Royal Oldham Hospital. After collapsing at home, the bright sociology student was rushed to A&E only to be given an unconnected oxygen mask. Medics initially mistook her symptoms for a panic attack, assuming the young woman was “overreacting.”
Clarissa, known for her love of music and life, had been feeling unwell for days before her boyfriend dialed 999 on August 13. Unable to eat or sleep and battling low oxygen levels, she was left unattended in a hospital corridor for over an hour. Despite being handed an unconnected mask to “regulate her breathing,” Clarissa deteriorated rapidly due to a pulmonary embolism alongside other health concerns.
The nurse in charge admitted to the inquest that the oxygen mask wasn’t connected, yet believed it helped initially. Clarissa’s symptoms were dismissed, partly due to her ability to converse in full sentences at the time. Unfortunately, her condition worsened and she was taken for urgent care, but it was too late, as she passed away in the early hours of August 14.
The ongoing inquest revealed that although Clarissa had a previous embolism in 2017, no long-term treatment was advised at the time. While lessons might be gleaned from hindsight, the 2024 embolism was deemed unrelated to her past health events.
This stark case underscores the crucial need for awareness and sensitivity in emergency healthcare settings. Our thoughts are with Clarissa’s family during this devastating time. Share your thoughts below. 💔