In a shocking case of alleged medical negligence, a young mother in Wayanad was forced to endure severe pain for over two months after a piece of cotton gauze was left inside her body following a normal delivery. The incident, which has sparked outrage, was confirmed by Kerala's Tribal Affairs Minister, O R Kelu, who stated that the gauze definitively belonged to the Wayanad Government Medical College.
Minister Confirms Hospital's Responsibility
Addressing the media in Wayanad on Friday, Minister O R Kelu revealed that the superintendent of the medical college had admitted the gauze was hospital property. This confirmation came after the 21-year-old woman approached the minister's office with her complaint on Monday, November 25, 2024. Kelu's office promptly forwarded the complaint to the District Medical Officer (DMO) for a formal investigation.
The woman's ordeal began after her delivery on October 20, 2024. The gauze, a standard material used to manage postpartum bleeding, was not removed before she was discharged. She returned to the hospital approximately 20 days later, suffering from intense pain and discomfort. Astonishingly, doctors at that time failed to detect the foreign object inside her.
Investigation and High-Level Response
The state health department has constituted a four-member expert committee to probe the serious lapse. This panel, which includes doctors from the directorate of health services and the Kozhikode Government Medical College, visited the Wayanad facility on Friday. Their tasks included collecting crucial evidence and recording the detailed statement of the affected woman.
Demonstrating the gravity with which the government is treating the case, Health Minister Veena George personally spoke to the woman over the phone on Thursday. The minister assured her of strict action if any lapses were found and advised her to undergo a comprehensive medical checkup for her well-being.
A Prolonged and Painful Ordeal
The young mother's suffering lasted for a grueling 75 days post-delivery. According to her account, the gauze eventually came out on its own after causing prolonged agony. This case highlights a critical failure in post-operative care and follow-up protocol at a government healthcare institution.
The confirmation from the highest levels has strengthened the charge of medical negligence. The incident raises serious questions about patient safety and accountability in public healthcare systems. The findings of the expert committee are now eagerly awaited, with the public and officials demanding swift and transparent justice for the victim.
