HSE to probe monitors in baby deaths

Health Minister Simon Harris has moved to reassure expectant mothers over the safety of foetal heart monitors in the country’s maternity units following revelations that the HSE has ordered a review over concerns dating back to 2009.

A risk assessment team has been put in place to look at how hospitals responded to a safety notice issued by the manufacturers at that time, warning that some were failing to monitor the baby’s heartbeat and instead recording only the mother’s, while audio warnings were also faulty.

The monitor in question, the Avalon Foetal Monitor made by Philips, was in use in 11 hospitals and continues to be used in Ireland. It was in use at the Midland Regional Hospital in Portlaoise during a period when there were a number of baby deaths that led to an inquiry.