A ‘devoted’ grandfather who had worked in the NHS for more than 50 years died after medics gave him an insulin injection by mistake, an inquest has heard. 

Donald Gough, 77, passed away four weeks after he was ‘erroneously’ jabbed with the substance at the end of a surgery at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff. 

The bowel cancer patient had agreed to an operation to remove secondary tumours in his liver and had been told it came with a maximum 5 per cent risk of death. 

High levels of insulin were found in Mr Gough’s body after he died on November 5, 2022 – prompting police to launch an investigation. 

No criminal charges were brought and an inquest concluded on June 12 that while errors had occurred, there was no malicious intent with regard to his death. 

Mr Gough, who had worked as an NHS radiographer at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen for more than half a century, died from encephalopathy. 

Encephalopathy is a broad term for a condition causing brain impairment, relating to low blood sugar levels. 

Medics told the two-week inquest at Pontypridd Coroner’s Court that there was no reason for Mr Gough to be given insulin. 

All surgeons, theatre staff and nurses involved in his care denied giving him the substance, adding that they also didn’t see anyone else do so. 

Donald Gough, 77, passed away four weeks after he was ‘erroneously’ jabbed with insulin at the end of a surgery at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff

Pictured: General view of University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff where Mr Gough died 

The inquest heard that after his eight-hour surgery, Mr Gough failed to wake up as expected. 

The court was told medics believed the cause of his unconsciousness was the opioid fentanyl, which had been administered as local pain relief at the end of the operation. 

Doctors therefore administered drugs to try and counteract that. 

Coroner David Regan told the hearing according to WalesOnline: ‘There is no evidence any person acted with malice intention towards Don at any stage.

‘Systems based on human checks may unaccountably break down.’ 

Mr Gough was born in Pembroke, west Wales, and was described as a ‘devoted family man’. 

An X-Ray suite at the hospital where he worked has since been named after him in his memory and to celebrate his work.  

Paying tribute, Mr Gough’s family said: ‘Born in Pembroke, West Wales, Donald Gough was a devoted husband, father, proud grandfather and great grandfather, who meant so much to his family, friends and colleagues.’

‘Don dedicated over 50 years of service to the NHS and Hywel Dda Health Board,’ they added. 

‘He loved his job working as a superintendent radiographer and was hardworking, dependable and highly respected by those around him. 

‘He was recognised for his commitment and professionalism throughout his long career.’