Hospital Criticized for Failures in Child's Care and Bereavement Support

An investigation into the death of a five-year-old boy found inadequate medical care, poor communication, and a lack of cultural sensitivity by Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

• Muhammad Ayaan Haroon, a five-year-old with a rare genetic condition, died in March 2023 after being admitted with respiratory issues.
• A draft report found aspects of Ayaan's care fell below expected standards, including delays in treatment and chaotic clinical handovers.
• The investigation highlighted 'poor bereavement care' and 'substantially inadequate' cultural sensitivity shown to Ayaan's family after his death.
• The family reported hearing staff laughing nearby as Ayaan’s life support was turned off, compounding their grief.
• Fifteen recommendations were made to improve care, including unconscious bias training and better post-death protocols, but the family is calling for a second investigation.

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