UPDATE: A 47-year-old nurse tragically died just three days after being sent home from Tameside Hospital with a diagnosis of ‘indigestion.’ Paula Ivers, a dedicated healthcare professional, was found unconscious by her young daughter at their home in Denton, Tameside, on March 8, 2024, and was later pronounced dead.
An inquest into her death has commenced at Stockport Coroner’s Court, revealing shocking details about the circumstances leading to her cardiac arrest. Authorities confirmed that Ms. Ivers suffered a thoracic aortic dissection, a severe tear in the body’s main artery, which ultimately resulted in her death.
Just days prior, on March 5, Ms. Ivers had arrived at Tameside Hospital’s A&E with “horrendous” chest pains, describing them as “worse than childbirth.” Despite her alarming symptoms, she was discharged after being reassured that her condition was not heart-related. Ms. Ivers’ partner, Simon Norbury, expressed disbelief at the hospital’s assessment, stating, “She was struggling to breathe in the car. We expected her to be kept in.”
The inquest heard that Ms. Ivers, who had dedicated 23 years to pediatric nursing, underwent various tests, including blood tests and an ECG, but was ultimately sent home with a prescription for indigestion medication. Her family alleges the hospital failed to consider her significant medical history, including a familial link to cardiac issues.
Mr. Norbury recounted that the medical team diagnosed her with gastroesophageal reflux disease and advised them to purchase Gaviscon. However, Ms. Ivers’ symptoms persisted, causing her to struggle with sleep and comfort. Her sister, Lesley, also a nurse, expressed the family’s devastation, stating, “It is a cruel irony that Paula was a fierce advocate for the NHS, yet when she needed it most, she was let down in the worst way possible.”
As the inquest continues, it is expected to reveal further evidence regarding the hospital’s handling of Ms. Ivers’ case. Dr. Osama Ahmed, a consultant in emergency medicine at Tameside, reviewed the ECG but did not examine Ms. Ivers directly. Under questioning, he admitted the signs did not indicate a low-risk situation, contradicting the decision to discharge her.
The family is seeking answers as they grapple with the loss of a beloved member. They describe Ms. Ivers as a caring, determined individual whose passion for nursing touched countless lives. The emotional toll of this tragedy has prompted widespread calls for accountability within the NHS, highlighting the urgent need for improved diagnostic protocols.
The inquest has been adjourned, with a date for further hearings yet to be set. As this story develops, the impact of Ms. Ivers’ case resonates deeply within the community and raises critical questions about patient care standards.
Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds, and share this urgent story to highlight the pressing need for accountability in healthcare.
