Safety investigation launched after patient’s death linked to telemetry device malfunction in South Ostrobothnia

The Safety Investigation Authority (Onnettomuustutkintakeskus) has launched an investigation into a case involving a patient’s loss of life, which was detected too late due to a telemetry device malfunction in South Ostrobothnia at the end of October. The patient was connected to the device in the hospital when they were found unresponsive, coinciding with the detection of the device’s malfunction.

According to the authority, the aim of the safety investigation is to enhance overall security and prevent future accidents and hazardous situations. It is important to note that the investigation will not address issues of guilt or compensation for damages.

“Device safety is a critical aspect of customer and patient safety. A malfunction in such equipment can have very serious consequences. We are now seeking to understand what factors contributed to the malfunction,” stated investigation leader Hanna Tiirinki in a press release.

The investigation was prompted by a report from the Finnish Medicines Agency (Fimea). It is expected to take approximately 9 to 12 months to complete. This incident was first reported by Iltalehti.