No Doctor Present: Tragic Death of Mom and Unborn Baby
A 30-year-old pregnant woman, G Zahira, tragically lost her life along with her unborn baby during childbirth at the Pudukottai Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Thoothukudi. The incident allegedly occurred due to the absence of a doctor, with nurses handling the delivery instead.
Medical Emergency Without a Doctor
Zahira, a resident of Sirupadu village, was admitted to the PHC at around 6 AM on Saturday for her second delivery. Her mother and other family members accompanied her. However, no doctors were available at the facility, and two nurses conducted the delivery procedure.
During the procedure, Zahira’s amniotic sac ruptured in a critical situation that required immediate medical attention. Despite this, no doctor arrived until 10 AM. Realizing the severity of the case, the nurses referred her to Thoothukudi Medical College Hospital (TKMCH) by 10:15 AM.
Unfortunately, Zahira and her unborn baby did not survive the journey. Upon reaching TKMCH, doctors confirmed that she was “brought dead.”
Family’s Protest and Allegations
Zahira’s family, devastated by the loss, refused to collect her body from the mortuary. They held the PHC accountable, demanding action against the doctors and nurses.
Her mother, Nabila, alleged that the nurses mishandled the situation, pressing her stomach forcefully until she experienced breathlessness. When Nabila stepped out briefly to get tea, the nurses referred Zahira to TKMCH. By the time she returned, Zahira was already being transported.
Official Response and Conflicting Statements
Efforts to contact the Deputy Director of Health for a response were unsuccessful. However, the district administration released a statement claiming that Zahira’s condition was properly monitored. The statement further mentioned that due to a delay in the opening of the uterus, she was referred to TKMCH in an ambulance. Officials also stated that the PHC has five doctors.
Conclusion
Zahira, who was previously in good health and had walked into the delivery ward without issues, leaves behind a four-year-old daughter. Her grieving relatives have insisted on a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death.
The incident has raised concerns about medical negligence, and Zahira’s family continues to seek accountability for her untimely demise.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
