Critical care halted for two days, patients referred amid maintenance concerns
Balasore: The Balasore District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) has suspended its Intensive Care Unit (ICU) services for two days, Sunday and Monday, following reports of an infection in the critical care unit. The decision was taken to carry out immediate corrective and maintenance measures.
Possible Lapses in Maintenance
Sources indicated that the infection may have occurred due to irregular maintenance and inadequate upkeep of ICU facilities. Allegations of poor hygiene and lapses in routine care have raised concerns about patient safety at the government hospital.
Patients and Families Affected
With more than 500 patients visiting the outpatient department daily, the sudden suspension of ICU services has created difficulties for families seeking urgent critical care. On Sunday, a critically ill patient was reportedly referred to Cuttack due to the unavailability of ICU beds at the hospital.
Locals Raise Serious Concerns
Speaking to TNIE, local residents alleged that despite provisions for regular ICU maintenance, due care was not being taken. They claimed that the situation has worsened in recent times, increasing the risk of hospital-acquired infections.
Reduction in ICU Capacity
Residents also pointed out that when the DHH functioned as a medical college, it had a larger number of ICU beds and stricter maintenance protocols. After the medical college shifted to Remuna, the number of ICU beds at the hospital was reduced to just six, they alleged.
Hospital Administration Responds
A senior DHH official said the ICU shutdown was a temporary measure for routine maintenance and infection control. He assured that emergency patients are being promptly referred to nearby government hospitals and medical colleges to ensure continuity of care.
Corrective Measures Underway
The official added that corrective steps are being implemented to address the issue and prevent recurrence. Hospital authorities said services would be restored only after ensuring that the ICU is safe for patients.
Focus on Patient Safety
The incident has once again brought attention to infrastructure and maintenance challenges at district hospitals, with locals urging the health department to strengthen infection control practices and critical care capacity to safeguard patient lives.
