Basildon Hospital has taken urgent action after a patient sectioned under the mental health act was able to kill himself.
Michael Braeger, 53, was found hanging from a door handle with a belt wrapped round his neck on the morning of October 26 last year.
He had been sectioned, diagnosed with a depressive disorder.
Dr Mike Lowe, a psychiatric consultant at the hospital, said an internal inquiry was launched at the hospital resulting in the removal of specific door handles, wardrobe doors and all room fittings where injury could occur.
Dr Lowe said: "This tradegy has had large ramifications for the medical profession.
"The information has been shared with hospitals across the NHS. Changes have been made."
Mr Braeger was considered a low suicide risk by staff on Belhus Ward and had even had a chat with a ward nurse 15 minutes before he was discovered, an inquest jury at Chelmsford heard yesterday.
A jury at Chelmsford Coroners' Court returned a verdict that Mr Braeger killed himself while suffering from depression.
Published Thursday August 5, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article