Viral Video Triggers Demands for Probe Into ICU Care and Patient Safety
Dhubri: A case of alleged medical negligence at Dhubri Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) has triggered widespread public outrage after a disturbing video of a 74-year-old dialysis patient went viral on social media, raising serious questions about patient care and hospital accountability.
Elderly Patient Admitted in Critical Condition
According to reports, the elderly man, a resident of Chotoguma in Chagolia, was rushed to DMCH on the morning of January 9 after his oxygen saturation levels dropped sharply. His family alleged that he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after his Ayushman Bharat card was verified, but the quality of care declined soon after admission.
Allegations of Neglected Basic Care
The patient’s granddaughter alleged that basic sanitation and nursing care were neglected inside the ICU. She claimed that despite repeated requests, hospital staff failed to respond, forcing family members to change the patient’s diapers and bedsheets themselves, an allegation that has drawn sharp public criticism.
Dialysis Denied Despite Critical Condition
The family further alleged that the Dialysis Ward refused to provide immediate treatment, stating that dialysis services were available only for “registered names.” They claimed they were advised to seek private treatment if urgent dialysis was required, despite the patient’s deteriorating condition.
Fall From Hospital Bed Raises Safety Concerns
The situation worsened when attendants of other patients reportedly informed the family that the elderly man had fallen from his hospital bed. With a medical channel inserted in his neck, the fall was potentially life-threatening. The family alleged that no hospital staff informed them about the incident, raising serious concerns over ICU supervision and patient safety.
Resistance to Transfer and DOR Controversy
By January 10, as the patient’s condition deteriorated further, the family decided to shift him to a private hospital. They alleged that hospital authorities refused to issue a referral and insisted they sign a “Discharge on Own Risk” (DOR) form, instead of facilitating an urgent transfer.
Viral Video and Police Intervention
As per reports by India Today NE, the viral video shows the granddaughter claiming that her grandfather was gasping for breath while on-duty nurses allegedly ignored repeated pleas to check his oxygen levels. When the family attempted to leave with the patient, hospital staff allegedly blocked the exit and called the police. Local police later intervened and allowed the family to proceed after assessing the patient’s condition.
Demands for Inquiry Grow Louder
The patient was finally shifted around 11 pm on January 10 and admitted to Shila Nursing Home in neighbouring West Bengal, where he remains under treatment. The family alleged that the delay and neglect at DMCH worsened his condition. The incident has intensified calls from local residents and civil society groups for a high-level inquiry into patient safety, accountability, and standards of care at Dhubri Medical College and Hospital.
