62-Year-Old Jaundice Patient Succumbs to Injuries After Allegedly Falling From Bed in Busy Hospital Ward
A 62-year-old patient undergoing treatment at the Government Medical College Hospital (MCH) in Thiruvananthapuram died after allegedly falling from his hospital bed, raising fresh concerns about patient safety in government healthcare facilities.
The deceased, identified as Wilfred, a resident of Lenin Bhavan in Padappakkara, Kollam, had been admitted to the hospital on May 25 for treatment related to jaundice.
According to hospital sources, the incident occurred at around 5:30 PM on Saturday in Ward Number 5, one of the busiest wards at the premier tertiary care hospital. Wilfred reportedly fell face-down from his bed, sustaining serious injuries.
Medical staff immediately rushed to provide emergency treatment and shifted him to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to his critical condition. Despite efforts to save him, doctors confirmed his death approximately one hour later.
Family Files Complaint, Police Launch Investigation
Following the incident, Wilfred’s son, Lenin, lodged a formal complaint with authorities. Based on the complaint, the Medical College Police registered a case and initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the patient’s death.
Police have registered a case under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which deals with the investigation of unnatural deaths.
Investigators are expected to record statements from hospital staff, fellow patients, bystanders, and family members to establish the exact sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
Hospital Cites Delirium Due to Liver-Related Brain Dysfunction
Hospital officials stated that Wilfred was reportedly suffering from delirium caused by hepatic encephalopathy, a severe neurological condition resulting from advanced liver disease. The condition can lead to confusion, altered mental status, and impaired awareness.
Authorities will examine whether adequate safety measures, including bed rails and regular monitoring protocols, were in place at the time of the incident.
Patient Safety Concerns Resurface
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over patient safety and monitoring standards in overcrowded government hospitals. Healthcare experts emphasize the importance of continuous supervision for patients suffering from conditions that may affect cognitive function and mobility.
The ongoing investigation is expected to determine whether any lapses in patient care or safety procedures contributed to the fatal incident.
