CARBOLIC ACID POISONING

Evening Star, Issue 21620, 16 January 1934, Page 7

CARBOLIC ACID POISONING

THE DEATH OF MRS JAMES CHARGE AGAINST HOSPITAL MATRON [Pbb Uxitsd Frsss Association.] - CHRISTCHURCH, January 16. A charge of manslaughter in respect of the death of Mrs Lilian Rhoda James in Kaikoura Hospital, against Edith Laura Francis, matron of the hospital at the time of the tragedy, was heard in the Magistrate’s Court this morning. Mrs James died in the hospital on October 22 last as the result of carbolic acid poisoning, following the administration of an enema. Accused’s present address was given in the, information as Avonside, Christchurch. William Ernest James, the husband of deceased, said his wife was quite cheerful when admitted. Next day the matron, Francis, called at his house and said his wife was dead. She said she had used a dirty dish which she thought had contained carbolic. She added: “ Unfortunately it was my fault. The text of the charge against accused was as follows,:—” That on October 21, at Kaikoura, having charge of the patient, Lilian James, in Kaikoura Hospital, did, in absence of care, and being under a legal duty to take reasonable precautions against danger, cause the death of James by administering to' her an enema 'containing poison—namely, carbolic acid, thereby committing manslaughter.”- Mr Mosley, S.M., heard the case. Chief-detective Dunlop said Mrs James was admitted to the maternity branch of the hospital. The matron was in charge on the day, and as was customary proceeded to administer an enema. It was alleged that in doing so the matron got a basin containing carbolic acid, whereas an ordinary enema consisted of soap and water. The patient showed immediate signs of shock, and collapsed. She died without regaining consciousness. The case is proceeding.