Inquiry as patient hurt on Aberdeen building site

NHS Grampian has launched an urgent investigation after an elderly patient suffered “significant injuries” after gaining entry to a building site at the Foresterhill hospital complex in Aberdeen.

NHS Grampian have launched an investigation. Picture: PA

The male patient, who has not been identified, was injured on Friday after walking onto a construction site at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, adjacent to the main acute hospital’s new emergency care centre.

A spokeswoman for NHS Grampian said.”An elderly patient left a ward at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary on Friday evening without notifying staff, and wandered onto a nearby construction site where he sustained significant injuries.

“The building contractor has completely secured the site. Police and the Health and Safety Executive are involved.“

The spokeswoman continued: “A senior clinician has spoken to the patient’s family. An internal investigation was launched immediately to establish how this incident happened and to see what lessons, if any, can be learnt.

“Observation levels do vary depending on clinical factors. This is not constant unless patients are detained under the Mental Health Act or similar legislation, or are critically ill. Adult patients are generally free to move around the hospital.”

A spokeswoman for HSE said: “HSE is aware and has made initial inquiries but will not be investigating further.”