A cancer patient in Pembrokeshire died after being given penicillin in error, despite her known allergy, an inquest has heard.
Philippa Gillespie, 59, was admitted to Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest on 8 January 2014 with symptoms related to her terminal lung cancer. She was prescribed Augmentin, a penicillin-based antibiotic, even though her allergy was noted in her medical records. She died three days later.
Coroner Mark Layton recorded a narrative verdict, stating that Mrs Gillespie died from an allergic reaction to penicillin administered in error by hospital staff.
Her partner, Roy Conolly, said: 'She knew 2014 would be her last year, but we didn't expect her to go quite like that - we didn't have time to say goodbye.'
Hywel Dda University Health Board admitted failings in a letter to Mr Conolly, saying record-keeping and response to the anaphylaxis were below standard. The board has apologised and implemented safety measures, including staff training and medication audits.
