New mental health unit needed at Prince Charles Hospital, inquest hears

An inquest investigating three suicides at the Prince Charles Hospital from May to December 2023 has heard testimony from nurses who were on duty during the tragic incidents. One nurse, whose identity remains undisclosed, testified that the mental health unit at the facility was consistently occupied and expressed a need for a completely new, purpose-built mental health unit.

The nurse, who was on shift the day Kendal Quicke, 31, took her own life in November 2023, stated that the hospital protocol required her to visually observe Quicke every 15 minutes. However, she could not confirm if she saw Quicke during one such observation, stating that she only called out to her and received a positive response.

The nurse also did not recall whether Quicke's former partner had warned her about Quicke's online search for suicide methods, nor if the suggestion was made to remove any safety items. Despite improvements in staffing and safety measures, the nurse emphasized the need for a new mental health unit, citing "blind spots" and other areas for improvement.

The inquest is expected to last two weeks and will delve into the adequacy of mental health care at the hospital during the time of the three suicides.