Pensioner dies after fall in hospital (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Pensioner dies after fall in hospital

6:34pm Tuesday 26th February 2013 in News By Janet Gleeson

AN 80 year old woman died after a fall when she was being treated at the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton for leg ulcers.

An inquest was told 80-year-old Alma Walker from Westholme Crescent, Masham died from pneumonia and other complications from the fall along with pre existing medical conditions.

North Yorkshire East Coroner Michael Oakley was told her family had said she was disorientated when she went into hospital, but she was seen walking freely around the ward.

Staff nurse Mary Pickersgill told the hearing she had seen Mrs Walker at the door of her room looking unsteady, but as she tried to go towards her she collapsed backwards. She was taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough for treatment before being taken back to the Friarage where she later died.

The coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death.