A 13-year-old boy died in Orange NSW from liver failure due to the toxic effects of paracetamol which he was given for pain relief over a 14-day period following a routine hip operation.
The Coroner recommended that the NSW Minister for Health consider making the following general changes to the accessibility of paracetamol:
- Restricting sales of paracetamol to pharmacies only (not supermarkets).
- Clearer warnings on packaging.
- Restrictions on advertising because of the potential of overdose and health risks (especially to children).
- Standardisation of doses and strengths to reduce consumer confusion.
The Coroner also made recommendations specific to this case including:
- An expert committee to review the use and abuse of the drug to prevent liver failure in children.
- Introducing a standard form when transferring patients which would contain information on medication, dosage and pathology results so as to help prevent overdoses.
How can we help?
If you are looking for information or help in relation to the Coroner, we can help you navigate the process. Our health law team is highly respected in the area, with specialist knowledge accumulated over 25 years.
Our team of highly experienced health lawyers can assist you in:
- Liaising with the Coroner’s office.
- Making an application to the Supreme Court seeking orders requiring the Coroner to conduct an inquest.
- Drafting questions to raise at inquest.
- Arranging expert evidence.
- Arranging an appropriately experienced advocate to represent you at the inquest.
- If evidence indicates a compensation claim is worthwhile, we can assist you with this when the inquest is concluded.
Representation at inquests
If you are involved in an inquest and need guidance in properly presenting your point of view, please do not hesitate to talk to our caring, expert team. We can help you to argue for changes that prevent tragic events from happening again to others. To confidentially discuss your needs call us on 1800 874 949 or fill in the form below, and we will be in touch.
