Derriford Hospital in Plymouth 'much safer' since death

Derriford Hospital learnt 'a huge amount' from the incident, Dr Glew said

A senior doctor has told an inquest that Derriford Hospital in Plymouth is "very much safer" than when a patient died after failures to resuscitate him.

Cecil Barnes, 79, collapsed six days after a bladder operation in July 2008.

Three devices used to try to revive him were faulty, or staff were not trained to used them, an inquest has heard.

Dr Peter Glew, associate medical director at the hospital, told the inquest that a significant number of changes had been made as a result.

The inquest at the Copthorne Hotel in Plymouth, has heard that six days after the operation Mr Barnes became violently sick, inhaled vomit and collapsed.

Staff were unable to clear Mr Barnes's airway, despite using three different sets of suction kit.

Dr Glew told the inquest: "There have been a very significant number of changes at Derriford Hospital.

"I believe we will not repeat this again."

He said monitoring the changes was "an ongoing issue".

"Derriford Hospital has learned a huge amount from this incident," he said.

The hearing continues.