Áras Attracta resident choked on piece of meat

A 52-year-old resident at a care home in Swinford choked to death while eating a piece of meat last May, an inquest was told today (Tuesday).

Dr. Tamas Nemeth, consultant pathologist at Mayo University Hospital, informed the hearing that Una McGing, Bungalow 10, Áras Attracta, died from what is known as a 'cafe coronary' when a piece of food became impacted in her larynx.

The inquest, conducted by the Coroner for Mayo, Mr. Pat O'Connor, heard from staff nurse Mary Coughlan that on May 8 last Ms. McGing had been 'over and back' looking for more food after her supper and had a tendency to go to the fridge in the kitchen.

Noticing that Ms. McGing was in distress, staff tried slapping her on the back and administering what is known as the Heimlich manoeuvre in order to try and dislodge the food which was blocking the airway.

However, Ms. McGing slumped to the floor and was given oxygen before suction equipment was used to try to clear the blockage. Ambulance personnel then took over.

After hearing the evidence, the coroner, Mr. O'Connor, described the death as 'a dreadful accident'.

He added: “There was no way it could have been prevented.”

The coroner insisted no blame attached to Áras Attracta for the death and he assumed Ms. McGing was well cared for in the facility.

Mr. O'Connor returned a verdict of accidental death.