30/05/2024
In relation to the sad death of Oliver Steeper, the Coroner Katrina Hepburn stated: “It is apparent from evidence in this case that when confronted with an emergency situation of a choking child that staff, even those with a valid certificate in place, were not able to put into place the Resuscitation Council guidelines. For example, no chest thrusts, a mouth sweep was given against the guidelines, staff were unsure of the strength of backslaps. I am concerned that even staff with valid training, who had it up to three years earlier, without regular refresher may not recall the finer particulars to ensure effective first aid is given.”