A serious medical error at a government hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, where an 11-year-old boy was mistakenly administered a powerful drug meant for another patient, has been officially confirmed by the state's top medical education authority. The Director of Medical Education (DME) submitted a report to the Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) admitting to the lapse in treatment.
Suo Motu Action and Investigation
The case was taken up suo motu by SHRC chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas, who initiated a detailed probe. Following his instructions, the DME investigated the incident and assessed the current health of the affected child. The commission later closed the case after a senior paediatrician from SAT Hospital, representing the DME, appeared before it and confirmed that the boy, identified as Rijo, is now in full health and has no lingering medical issues.
Chronology of a Critical Mistake
The incident dates back to July 30, 2024. Rijo was brought to the casualty department of the Women and Children Hospital in Thycaud with complaints of fever and digestive problems. The attending paediatrician prescribed IV fluids and an injection of pantoprazole.
While Rijo was away to use the toilet, another child in respiratory distress was brought in. For this second child's nebulization treatment, adrenaline was loaded into a syringe. The remainder of the drug was handed to a junior public health nursing student for proper labelling.
In a tragic mix-up, upon Rijo's return, the leftover adrenaline injection was wrongly administered to him instead of the prescribed pantoprazole. His condition deteriorated rapidly, necessitating an emergency transfer to the more advanced SAT Hospital for critical care.
Accountability and Disciplinary Actions
The DME's report to the human rights commission outlined the disciplinary measures taken following the internal probe. A staff nurse was suspended in connection with the error. Furthermore, a National Health Mission staff nurse was dismissed from service. An explanation was also formally obtained from the nursing superintendent overseeing the department where the mistake occurred.
The investigation was comprehensive, including an assessment of Rijo's current condition and a formal statement recorded from his father, as directed by Justice Thomas. The confirmation of the child's full recovery was a key factor in the SHRC's decision to close the proceedings.
