Two cancer patients have died at the University Hospital of Burgos after receiving a dose six times higher than prescribed of an oncology drug due to a human error in its preparation. Three other patients were affected, one in intensive care. The hospital manager attributes the incident to a failure in diluting the vial.
On December 18, two oncology patients at the University Hospital of Burgos (HUBU) showed symptoms consistent with excessive toxicity after receiving treatment. This prompted an internal investigation that reviewed the entire process, from prescription to administration, uncovering an error in the drug preparation sheet. Specifically, the vial dilution was not done correctly, resulting in a concentration six times higher than prescribed.
The hospital manager, Carlos Cartón, explained in a press conference that it was a human error, not related to the treatment itself or issues like new software or staff shortages. The five affected patients received the faulty preparation on different days. Both deceased were over 60; one died hours after arriving at the hospital, and the other, days later. Among the survivors, one remains in the ICU with a reserved prognosis, another on the ward, and the third has been discharged.
Cartón expressed regret for the incident and conveyed condolences to the families, with whom they have met several times to inform them and offer center resources, including legal services. Hospital sources assure there is no risk to other patients and that protocols have been reviewed to prevent similar incidents. The regional health management of Castilla y León will initiate the patrimonial liability process.
This incident highlights the challenges in preparing oncology medications, where precision is crucial.
