In a heartbreaking revelation, an inquest has found that a 15-year-old girl who succumbed to meningitis could have survived if the ambulance service had taken her back to the hospital. Zara Cheesman, a Nottingham resident, tragically passed away on December 23, 2024, just four days after showing troubling symptoms.

The Timeline of Tragedy

Zara's ordeal began on December 19, when her parents transported her to the Accident & Emergency department due to her deteriorating condition. After being discharged with a diagnosis of 'suspected norovirus,' her condition worsened. On December 21, an ambulance crew was called back to her home, but the technician made an alarming decision that changed everything.

Missed Signs and Poor Judgement

Ambulance technician Michael Hoy assessed Zara but chose not to transport her back to the hospital, believing her symptoms did not indicate a life-threatening situation. Despite her alarming signs such as increasing confusion and a severe headache, Hoy dismissed them as residual effects of the previously diagnosed vomiting bug.

In a poignant moment during the inquest, Hoy admitted, "I think it did, yes," when asked if his earlier assessment had adversely affected his decision-making. The coroner emphasized that not taking Zara back to the hospital was a grave error.

A Disturbing Turn of Events

Tragically, just 16 hours after the ambulance visit, Zara collapsed at home and was found unresponsive. Her frantic parents called emergency services but by the time help arrived, it was too late. Zara went into respiratory arrest and was pronounced dead shortly after her arrival at the hospital.

Expert Opinions and Missed Opportunities

Dr. Craig Stewart, who treated Zara, voiced the family's concerns and lamented the missed opportunity for a full clinical assessment that could have identified signs of sepsis or meningitis. He stated, "If she had presented at that time, I'm certain she would have triggered a full clinical assessment, and she would have received antibiotics." When asked about her chances of survival had she been admitted earlier, Dr. Stewart responded, "She would have more than likely survived."

This tragic case not only highlights the critical importance of thorough medical assessments but also raises serious questions about the protocols followed by emergency services. Zara's heartbreaking story serves as a stark reminder of the need for improved vigilance in healthcare.