Timber Worker Alleges Severe Injuries After ICU Treatment and Physical Restraint at Private Hospital
A case of alleged medical negligence has been registered against a private hospital in Kannur after a 40-year-old patient reportedly suffered severe injuries that left him partially disabled and unable to move both arms.
The case was registered by the Kannur Town Police based on a complaint filed by a timber loading worker from Arivalappoyil near Udayagiri. The complainant alleged that he lost movement in both hands following treatment at the private hospital.
According to the complaint, the patient was admitted to the hospital on March 1 after developing fever-related symptoms. Family members alleged that he was later shifted to the intensive care unit (ICU), where hospital authorities informed them that he had become violent during treatment and needed to be physically restrained. The hospital reportedly obtained consent from the accompanying relative before carrying out the restraint procedure.
The family further claimed that the patient remained unconscious for several days during treatment. He was later shifted to another hospital in Mangaluru in an ICU-equipped ambulance. During the transfer, both his hands and legs were allegedly tied to the stretcher.
According to the family, severe wounds were discovered under both armpits only after the patient reached the hospital in Mangaluru. They alleged that the injuries were caused by the restraints used during treatment at the private hospital.
The family has submitted complaints to the Chief Minister and the Human Rights Commission, demanding a detailed investigation into the alleged negligence and lapses in patient care. The patient is currently undergoing Ayurvedic treatment, according to reports.
Meanwhile, police officials confirmed that a case has been registered and an investigation is underway to examine the allegations against the hospital.
Family Seeks Action Over Alleged Negligence
The incident has raised serious concerns regarding patient handling practices, the use of physical restraints in ICU care, and monitoring protocols in hospitals. Authorities are expected to review medical records, treatment procedures, and statements from hospital staff as part of the investigation.
Earlier, another alleged medical negligence case surfaced at Kottayam Medical College Hospital, where a 27-year-old woman reportedly died during childbirth, following which her family filed a formal complaint alleging negligence.
