The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman has upheld a complaint from a member of the public about the nature of treatment given to a patient at Ayr University Hospital.

A patient was admitted to the hospital after an episode when they had become unresponsive.

The patient’s family complained that medical staff at the hospital decided to change the patient’s epilepsy medicine without consulting a specialist.

The SPSO contacted a specialist in geriatric and general medicine, who confirmed to them that the patient had not been properly assessed, that there was no clear reason for changing their epilepsy medication and that there was a lack of communication with their family about the change.

Ayr University Hospital have apologised to the family of the patient.

A statement from Joanne Edwards, director of acute services reads: “I am so sorry that we did not meet the high standards of care we strive for in NHS Ayrshire and Arran for this patient and their family. In addition to our formal apology I can advise that we have fully accepted all the recommendations in the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman report.

“We have addressed the issues highlighted and made the appropriate improvements ensuring that the required standards are followed in relation to changes made to a patient’s medication for specialist conditions, these changes are discussed with the patient and/or their families/carers.

“Additionally that complaints are handled and record-keeping is completed in line with the Model Complaints Handling Procedure to avoid potential delay and the impact this may have.

“In order to ensure learning across the organisation, we will share the findings from the report with staff and assurance will be provided to our Healthcare Governance Committee that the necessary actions have been completed.”