Male nurse faces criminal charges after allegedly botching abortion at home

In a statement on Tuesday, the Gauteng health department said the Far East Rand Hospital in Springs had laid criminal charges against one of its nurses after he allegedly illegally performed a termination of pregnancy at his home while off duty on Friday.

This, they said, led to complications that resulted in the patient collapsing.

“The nurse has been suspended with immediate effect while his case is being referred to the South African Nursing Council for further investigation,” the department said.

“The nurse apparently gave the patient oral medication and did some manipulation, which led to complications that saw the patient collapse. He then took the patient to Far East Rand hospital under a guise that she was his partner.

“Upon examination the doctor discovered that the patient had suffered serious complications and she needed specialised care; a decision was then taken to refer the patient to specialised central hospital services. The patient is currently stable in the intensive care unit. Psychological support will be offered to the patient and her family.”

The department pleaded with the public to avoid “backyard abortion services” as they were dangerous and could even lead to loss of life or permanent scarring.

“Termination of pregnancy is offered at selected community health care centres for the first trimester and at selected public hospitals for the second trimester,” they added.

(Edited by Charles Cilliers)

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