Western Sydney Hospital's Avoidable Errors in Deaf Man's Death: A Call for Improved Communication and Care
The tragic death of Bruce Drabsch, a 92-year-old Deaf man, at Westmead Hospital has brought to light critical issues surrounding communication and care for the Deaf community. The hospital's Serious Adverse Event Review revealed avoidable errors, including flawed assumptions about communication with Deaf patients and inadequate sedation practices.
The Core Issue: Communication Breakdown
The case highlights a persistent problem within healthcare systems: the inability of Deaf patients to communicate effectively with medical staff. Mr. Drabsch, who only spoke Australian Sign Language (Auslan), was unable to express his needs or understand vital care instructions due to the hospital's failure to provide an Auslan interpreter.
A Series of Missteps
- Communication Assumptions: Hospital staff assumed they couldn't communicate with Mr. Drabsch and his wife, Margaret, both Deaf. This assumption led to a lack of communication and involvement in critical care decisions.
- Interpreter Neglect: Despite being legally obligated to provide interpreters for non-English-speaking patients, hospital staff did not request one, further exacerbating the communication barrier.
- Sedation Mismanagement: Mr. Drabsch received an excessive dose of midazolam, a sedative, which contributed to his respiratory failure and ultimately his death.
The Impact on the Drabsch Family
The family's experience was devastating. Mrs. Drabsch, also Deaf, noticed her husband's distress but couldn't communicate her concerns effectively. The hospital staff's inability to provide an interpreter left the family isolated and unable to make informed decisions about Mr. Drabsch's care.
A Nationwide Problem
This incident is not an isolated case. Deaf Australia spokesperson Olivia Beasley emphasizes that the lack of interpreters is a persistent issue within the healthcare system. A federal government review confirmed that many healthcare workers struggle to find and book Auslan interpreters, indicating a systemic problem.
Call for Change
The Drabsch family is advocating for change. They hope their story will lead to improved communication practices for the Deaf community, ensuring that patients like Mr. Drabsch receive the necessary support and care.
Westmead Hospital has taken some steps, including informing staff about the availability of Auslan interpreters and establishing a committee to govern sedation practices. However, the family and Deaf Australia continue to push for more comprehensive solutions to address the underlying communication barriers within the healthcare system.
