Inquest rules carer’s assault on mental patient was not direct cause of death

A PATIENT at the Central Mental Hospital died from injuries incurred while he was being restrained by staff during his transfer from one part of the facility to another, an inquest has heard.

Gary Connell, 35, of the Morning Star hostel died from restraint asphyxia and inhalation of gastric contents which occurred during a restraint and control procedure on September 12, 2001 at the facility.

The jury recommended that an external and independent audit on all hospital policies and procedures be regularly carried out to ensure that best international practice is met. In particular, the jury highlighted the area of patient risk assessment, control and restraint procedures, and training and facilities available for control and restraint.