New Zealand / Health

Coroner outlines ward's failings relating to death of Ruarangi McIntyre

19:56 pm on 10 February 2020

A coroner has found a series of failures by staff in a mental health ward gave a man at chronic risk of self harm significant time to commit suicide.

Photo: 123RF

Ruarangi Waitai James McIntyre, 30, was found dead in his room at the Waitakere Hospital's mental health unit in on 27 May 2018.

He was brought to the emergency department on 22 May after collapsing at his home, before being admitted to the acute mental health inpatient unit two days later.

McIntyre had a history of mental health issues, drug use and was a survivor of childhood sexual abuse.

He had been involved with mental health services since 2006.

Coroner JP Ryan said in his report that "Mr McIntyre remained at chronic risk of self-harm due to his underlying mental health issues during his admission to the mental health unit in May 2018".

Ryan found hospital staff were supposed to check on McIntyre every 15 minutes, but his body wasn't found until two hours after the last check at 7.15am.

"The failure to maintain the 15-minute observations provided a greater window of opportunity for Mr McIntyre to take his own life."

But he argued this was not the cause, even if the observations had been adhered to, he still would have been able to take his own life.

He said McIntyre was left with potentially dangerous items and staff didn't communicate a "concerning" article found in his room to the treatment team.

This information could have alerted staff to a heightened risk.

He said the failings identified in McIntyre's care had been rectified by the Waitematā District Health Board and he had no further recommendations.

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357

  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What's Up: online chat (3pm-10pm) or 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 helpline (12pm-10pm weekdays, 3pm-11pm weekends)
  • Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)

  • Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.