Collector Orders Inquiry, Baby Undergoing Treatment in Chennai
Vellore, May 30: In a distressing incident at the Government Medical College Hospital in Vellore, a 40-year-old staff nurse was booked by Vellore Taluk Police on Saturday for alleged medical negligence after she accidentally severed the tip of a newborn’s right thumb while removing a cannula.
The nurse, identified as S. Aruna Devi, a resident of Adukkamparai village near the hospital, has been employed at the facility for the past seven years. According to police reports, the mishap occurred on the morning of Friday, May 30, around 10 a.m., when Devi was attempting to remove a paediatric venflon from the infant’s hand.
Scissors Used to Remove Tape Result in Injury
Preliminary investigation revealed that V. Nivetha (24) had delivered a baby boy at the hospital on May 24, and both mother and child had since been admitted to the maternity ward. During a routine procedure, Devi reportedly used a pair of scissors to remove the medical tape securing the cannula. In a tragic error, she inadvertently cut off the tip of the newborn’s right thumb instead.
Following the incident, the injured baby was immediately transferred to Government Stanley Hospital in Chennai, where emergency surgery was performed. The child is currently under observation, hospital authorities confirmed.
Police Action and Official Inquiry Ordered
The Vellore Taluk Police registered a case against Devi under negligence provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), based on a formal complaint filed by the baby’s grandmother, V. Pushpa (50).
In response to public outcry, Vellore Collector V. R. Subbulaxmi has ordered a full inquiry into the matter and assured the baby’s parents that strict disciplinary action will be taken against those found responsible.
“A probe is underway, and accountability will be ensured,” the Collector stated.
The incident has sparked concern over procedural lapses and the need for enhanced training and supervision in government-run medical institutions.
