Alleged Medical Negligence Sparks Investigation After Postpartum Death in Keonjhar
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A probe has been launched following the death of a woman shortly after giving birth at the Keonjhar District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Odisha, India, on Sunday, raising concerns about potential medical negligence. The incident has triggered unrest and a police investigation.
A 28-year-old woman, identified as Pinki Sahu from Turumunga, was admitted to the hospital on Saturday morning and successfully delivered a baby girl following surgery that evening. However, her condition rapidly deteriorated overnight, and she was pronounced dead around 2:00 AM.
Family Alleges Delayed Medical Attention
According to a complaint filed by her husband at the Town Police Station, Pinki began experiencing severe pain around midnight. Family members allege that despite repeated requests to the attending nurse, a doctor was not immediately available. A nurse reportedly administered an injection, but Pinki’s condition continued to worsen.
“Saline was being administered when she suffered labour pain. Nurses came and gave her an injection. I reported to the nurses that she was having severe pain. My brother-in-law, who was present there, also brought it to their attention. Later, they checked her BP and took her (to the labour room),” Pinki’s younger sister, Priyanka Sahu, stated. “After some time, the nurses told us that she (Pinki) had died.”
Adding to the family’s suspicions, a death certificate was reportedly issued by a nurse without a doctor’s signature, further escalating tensions at the hospital.
Police Investigation Underway
Local authorities responded swiftly to the situation. Police personnel, including the Sadar Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) and the Town Police Station Inspector, arrived at the hospital to conduct an on-site inquiry.
“A woman from Turumunga had come yesterday for her delivery. She had delivered a child and was in her bed. She fell sick late at night and died. The woman’s family complained that she had not been given proper treatment,” stated Sadar SDPO, Sudarshan Gangoi.
Authorities have assured the family and the public that strict action will be taken if negligence is confirmed. The SDPO indicated that the precise cause of death will be determined following a post-mortem examination. The Additional District Medical & Public Health Officer (ADM&HO) confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway and that those found responsible will face consequences.
“Action will be taken against those found responsible once the investigation concludes,” the ADM&HO stated.
The case highlights critical questions surrounding maternal healthcare access and quality of care in the region, and underscores the importance of timely medical intervention in postpartum complications. The outcome of the investigation is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Pinki Sahu’s death and potentially lead to improvements in hospital protocols.
