Case Study 18: Brisbane to Auckland

Princess Alexander Hospital Brisbane to Auckland Hospital New Zealand

A 56 year old female from New Zealand was on holidays visiting family.  Unfortunately she had a 2-year history of oesophageal cancer with secondary lung metastasis mass that had invaded the trachea and bronchial tree. While diagnosed with a terminal illness she was determine to be active as possible when during her travels in Australia she became acutely symptomatic with haemoptysis, dyspones on exertion and low oxygen saturations and was admitted to Princess Alexander Hospital in May 2013.

The sudden deterioration in her condition and with ongoing regular small haemoptysis from coughing fits she became oxygen dependence and was placed under the palliative care team.

Medical Connect was informed of her condition and conducted a detail risk assessment to identify the hazards and controls to safely repatriate the client. Within 48-hours she was successfully repatriated home to New Zealand. While deeply sadden by her sudden deterioration the family were pleased to have her home safely to spend her remaining days surrounded by family.