Mamal Hospital Denies Negligence in Toddler's Death, Cites Emergency Care
Thiruvananthapuram: Mamal Hospital in Kattakada has firmly rejected allegations of medical negligence raised against the institution following the tragic death of two-and-a-half-year-old Ayesha Fathima. In a detailed news conference, hospital authorities presented their defense, asserting that all necessary emergency medical procedures were diligently followed in an attempt to save the young child's life.
Hospital's Detailed Account of Treatment
The hospital superintendent, Dr. Shivakumari, provided a chronological account of the events. According to the hospital's statement, when Ayesha Fathima was initially brought to Mamal Hospital on February 19, she exhibited symptoms strongly indicative of pneumonia. Recognizing the severity, the attending doctors promptly advised the family to transfer the child to SAT Hospital for specialized care.
On February 22, the child was brought back to Mamal Hospital, this time presenting with severe breathing difficulties. The medical team immediately initiated emergency interventions. A blood sample was collected for diagnostic purposes, and nebulisation therapy was administered to alleviate respiratory distress. During the course of treatment, the child unfortunately suffered a cardiac arrest.
Emergency Response and Transfer
In response to the cardiac arrest, the hospital staff administered adrenaline as a critical emergency measure. Dr. Shivakumari emphasized that the family was immediately and transparently informed about this grave development. Contrary to some reports, the hospital maintains that Ayesha Fathima was still alive when she was subsequently transferred to Neyyar Medicity for further advanced care.
Parents' Allegations of Negligence
The child's parents, Siddique Shah and Fasilath, have publicly alleged that medical negligence at Mamal Hospital directly contributed to their daughter's deteriorating condition and ultimate death. They specifically claim that the child's health worsened significantly after receiving an injection at the hospital. Following this alleged decline, the child was rushed to Neyyar Medicity, where doctors, upon arrival, declared her deceased.
The hospital's statement represents a direct rebuttal to these serious accusations, framing their actions as a standard and urgent response to a critical pediatric emergency. The case highlights the ongoing tensions and tragic outcomes that can arise in complex medical situations, with the hospital defending its protocols and the grieving family seeking answers and accountability.