Aberdeen carer struck off for negligence after seizure incident

Investigation reveals serious misconduct at Raeden Court Care Home in Aberdeen.

Serious misconduct leads to removal from register

In a troubling case from Aberdeen, a carer has been removed from the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) register following a serious incident involving a patient under her care. Carol Cormack, who worked at Raeden Court Care Home, was found to have failed in her duties, leading to a patient experiencing a seizure without the necessary checks being conducted.

Details of the incident

The incident occurred on October 26, 2022, when Cormack neglected to perform a required visual check on a man referred to as AA. Instead of ensuring the patient’s well-being, she falsely recorded in the Daily Support Checks that she had checked on him and that he was in a stable condition.

This misrepresentation not only violated care protocols but also placed the patient at significant risk.

Later that day, AA was discovered on the bathroom floor having a seizure. The SSSC report highlighted that Cormack’s failure to conduct the necessary checks meant that immediate assistance was not sought, potentially exacerbating the situation.

Although AA was admitted to the hospital for observation, he fortunately did not suffer any lasting harm.

Previous incidents raise concerns

The investigation into Cormack’s conduct revealed another alarming incident from July 2, 2021, where she improperly used a bed hoist to assist a female tenant. This action, which should have involved two staff members, raised serious concerns about her adherence to safety protocols and the standards expected of social care workers.

The SSSC concluded that Cormack’s actions demonstrated a lack of integrity and placed vulnerable individuals at risk. The report stated that her behavior was “serious and completely incompatible” with the responsibilities of her role, indicating a troubling attitude towards her duties as a carer.

Response from Blackwood Housing and Care

Doug Moyes, director of customer service at Blackwood Housing and Care, expressed support for the SSSC’s findings, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to maintaining high standards of care. He noted that the incident was treated with the utmost seriousness and that swift action was taken to dismiss Cormack once the facts were established.

Moyes reiterated the organization’s dedication to the safety and welfare of its customers, stating that they regularly review practices to identify areas for improvement and prevent similar incidents in the future. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and vigilance in the care sector.