NHS trust admits ‘missed opportunities’ in baby death

A pathologist and toxicologist both gave evidence at the inquest, which was held in front of a jury, but neither could give a firm view on the impact the over-administration of the Clyndamycin antibiotic had on Hunter prior to his death.

Coroner Peter Nieto gave an outline of the events, starting with Hunter’s parents taking him to Chesterfield Royal Hospital in the early hours of 4 March after becoming concerned about symptoms that arose after Hunter contracted chicken pox.

Mr Nieto said Hunter presented with a temperature, which later dropped and it was suggested his parents could take him home.

However, Mr Martin and Ms Smith found he was unwell the next morning and were advised to take him back into hospital, the jury heard.

A statement written by Ms Smith was read at the hearing, saying Hunter’s belly button was “protruding and purple in colour” on 4 March, which she raised with a doctor at Chesterfield hospital.

The jury heard Ms Smith describe Hunter on the morning of 5 March as “unresponsive” and “almost grey”.

Her statement added: “When staff finally saw Hunter, you could see the instant panic on their faces. It was all hands on deck trying to get cannulas and stuff into him.”

Hunter had two cardiac arrests before being transferred to Sheffield Children’s Hospital, where suffered a third and died on 6 March.