Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital has come under spotlight following alleged claims that nurses refused to help a pregnant woman, who later gave birth to a premature baby.
According to reports, nurses at this hospital did not come to help the woman when she was crying for help.
The baby died later.
Gauteng Department of Health spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed the incident did happen, however, he said the nurses did not cause the death of the baby.
“The patient was five months pregnant and such pregnancies once out, they aren’t viable – meaning that chances of them being alive are very minimal,” said Mabona.
He also highlighted that they have launched an investigation surrounding this matter.
“The nurses did not cause the death of a baby, but weren’t helpful when the patient needed help. Disciplinary measures will focus on corrective measures,” explained Mabona.
He also said when the incident happened, there were three nurses and nine patients in the gynae ward, which meant there were enough nurses to assist.
“The incident occurred at gynae not maternity ward,” Mabona clarified.
He added that the department will focus on the hospital in particular, to assist them with bad attitudes and managing diversity.
“All matrons are to ensure that nurses live by ICARE4U values,” he said.
Mabona also mentioned that after the incident, the patient was first counselled.
“She was informed that should she fall pregnant again, then she should report to the nearest clinic in eight weeks in order to have her pregnancy monitored.
“Such miscarriages sometimes recur. She was offered psychological services at the hospital for women who go through miscarriages,” concluded Mabona.
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