NHS blunder as wrong body cremated at UK hospital – ‘human error’ | UK | News

An investigation was launched after a body was accidentally removed from a hospital in England and burned. The NHS has apologized following the error, which said human error was responsible for the incident which caused “significant additional distress” to two families.

The body was removed from the morgue of Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow last month. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Scotland’s largest health board, confirmed a full investigation was ongoing, with the staff involved suspended. Affected families have been notified and are currently being supported.

Medical director of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Dr. Scott Davidson said: “I would like to offer my sincere apologies to both families affected. “We have very rigorous processes for identifying and tagging bodies from the time they arrive at our morgues until they are released into the care of a mortician.

“It is a matter of deep regret that these processes were not followed and as a result two families were subjected to significant additional distress at an already very difficult time. We have immediately launched an investigation into this incident and will ensure that what we learn is implemented.”

The mistake was reportedly discovered when a mislabeled body was delivered to the funeral director. This has left the family “inconsolable”, although it is unclear whether their loved one’s remains have since been returned to them.

A source said Sun: “How could something like this happen? The family was inconsolable. Serious questions about this enormous mess need to be addressed and answered quickly. The venue needs to be changed urgently.”

Scottish Conservative shadow public health secretary Brian Whittle said: “Families are entrusting their loved ones to the NHS at their most vulnerable.

“But basic procedures were ignored with devastating consequences. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde must explain how this was allowed to happen.”