Doctor died after staff at his own NHS trust gave him killer overdose while treating him for a cough

PROFESSOR Ray McMahon, a highly respected doctor, died after being given the wrong drug by staff at the NHS trust where he worked.

The 68-year-old, who had dedicated his “entire life” to the NHS, suffered a cardiac arrest after what was described as a “cascade of errors” led to him being given a dose of medication that was too strong, resulting in an overdose, an inquest into his death heard.

Originally from Ireland, the dad-of-three was remembered by colleagues as friendly, good-humoured and someone who enjoyed a party.

His academic achievements saw him become president of the International Academy of Pathology, while also working as a Consultant Gastrointestinal Pathologist at Manchester Royal Infirmary.

Prof McMahon died at Wythenshawe Hospital on February 18 – which, like the Infirmary, is part of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.

This was just four days after he had been admitted with a fever, reduced appetite and a cough, Manchester Coroner’s Court heard.

Prof McMahon was initially taken to hospital by ambulance in the early hours of February 14 and treated for a chest infection.

On February 18, he was moved to the Acute Intensive Care Unit (AICU) as his condition worsened and he required more support.

A consultant in infectious diseases had advised that if his condition failed to improve, he should be started on liposomal amphotericin, a drug used for suspected fungal lung infections.

The next day the treatment was approved and prescribed.

A trainee pharmacist prescribed the wrong medication after looking in a fridge when, in reality, the correct medication was stored on a shelf.

Prof McMahon suffered a cardiac arrest when the infusion was nearly complete and resuscitation attempts failed, according to the BBC.

This error was not discovered until the day after his death.

The family criticised “devastating” failings by Manchester University NHS Trust.

Prof McMahon’s wife, Claire McMahon, said: “I and my family would like to express our extreme disappointment, distress and sadness at what happened to Ray; especially within the Trust that he’d worked in for many years.”

She added: “Ray devoted his whole life to the NHS but as a patient, he was failed by Wythenshawe hospital.

“We are grateful for the thorough investigation undertaken by the hospital, but to know that both system and individual failures caused his death is devastating.

“Our disappointment extends to Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust as an organisation.”

‘Multiple failings in care’

Rachael Heyes, specialist medical negligence solicitor, JMW, who represented the McMahon family through the inquest process, said: “What happened to Ray was a complete tragedy.  

“There were multiple failings in his care, including the initial prescribing and the dispensing of the anti-fungal medication.

“I hope that the Trust can learn from what happened and ensure that the processes now in place are effective and no other patients are exposed to potentially serious harm in the future.”

Dr Katherine Adjukiewicz, representing Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, admitted there had been a “cascade of errors” in Prof McMahon’s care.

Recording a narrative conclusion, Coroner Zak Golombeck said Prof McMahon was given an overdose of the wrong medication, and that neglect contributed to his death.