Kyle 'had virtually no chance of survival'

Published on Saturday 22 September 2007 12:29

TRAGIC Kyle Brown had "virtually zero" chance of survival given the severity of his illness, according to a meningitis expert.

Dr John Beattie, a consultant paediatrician at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Glasgow, estimated that at least 50 minutes could have been gained if NHS 24 staff had prioritised him quicker and sent an ambulance.

But he said it was unlikely to have made a difference because of the speed and aggression of Kyle's illness. Dr Beattie, who has extensive experience treating children with meningococal conditions, admitted Kyle was "virtually dead" by the time he got to hospital.

The Fatal Accident Inquiry has heard that Kyle's mum, Lisa Thomson, found him covered in rashes and called NHS 24 at a round 2.50am in April last year.

Mistakes by staff meant Kyle was not treated until after 4.30am.

The final day of the inquiry will be on Tuesday.