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Ethan James

Death of baby who swallowed screw a 'tragic accident'

A coroner could not fault the care provided by a paramedic to a baby boy who swallowed a screw. (Rob Blakers/AAP PHOTOS)

The death of an 11-month-old boy who swallowed a metal screw at his home was a "very unfortunate and tragic accident", a coroner has determined.

An ambulance was called to the boy's house in Hobart in May 2022 after his parents noticed he was choking on something.

He was rushed to the Royal Hobart Hospital but died three days later from hypoxic brain damage.

Coroner Robert Webster said the care provided to the boy at the scene by an intensive care paramedic in very trying circumstances could not be faulted.

Mr Webster said Ambulance Tasmania officers, who arrived seven minutes after being called, also "did their best", noting the screw was difficult to locate.

In findings published on Monday, Mr Webster indicated the origin of the screw remained a mystery.

He said it was possible the screw had come from a child gate or from wind-up blinds in the home's lounge and dining area.

"There is absolutely no evidence that (the boy's) parents were in any way responsible for his passing," he said.

"This was a very unfortunate and tragic accident.

"I convey my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of (the boy)."

Mr Webster, who didn't make any recommendations, said the boy had been healthy and had no prior illnesses or medical issues.

He was playing on the floor before the accident.

A neighbour living across the road performed CPR on the boy before ambulance officers arrived.

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