Father Claims Delay in Treatment and Lack of Examination Led to Child’s Death
A tragic incident in Kerala has triggered serious allegations of medical negligence after a young boy died following a snakebite at the Taluk Hospital in Chirayinkeezhu. The grieving family has accused hospital authorities of failing to provide timely and adequate treatment, raising concerns about emergency response protocols in government healthcare facilities.
Child Bitten by Cobra While Sleeping
The deceased, identified as Dikshal, was the eldest son of Dilip and Anu from Azhoor Mulel House. According to reports, the incident occurred early Thursday morning when the child was bitten by a cobra while asleep. The family became aware of the situation around 4:00 AM, and the snake was later captured inside their home.
Alleged Delay in Treatment at Taluk Hospital
Following the snakebite, Dikshal was immediately rushed to the Taluk Hospital in Chirayinkeezhu. However, his father has alleged that the hospital staff failed to respond promptly.
He claimed that the doctor on duty did not physically examine the child and that only a nurse briefly checked him. The father further alleged that despite the child complaining of breathing difficulties, no immediate medical intervention was provided.
“We didn’t even know it was a snakebite at first. Only the nurse touched and examined him. The doctor was watching. Even when my son said he couldn’t breathe, they did nothing for nearly 10 minutes,” the father stated.
Referred to Medical College, Declared Dead
As the child’s condition deteriorated, hospital staff advised the family to shift him to a Medical College Hospital. He was transported via ambulance, but reportedly became unresponsive before reaching the facility. Doctors at the referral hospital were unable to revive him.
Questions Raised Over Emergency Protocols
The incident has raised serious concerns about the handling of snakebite emergencies, especially in rural and semi-urban healthcare centers. Prompt administration of anti-venom and immediate medical assessment are critical in such cases, and any delay can prove fatal.
Authorities are expected to review the allegations, and further investigation may be initiated to determine whether there was any lapse in standard medical procedures.
Similar Medical Negligence Case in News
In a separate case highlighting accountability in healthcare, the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in SAS Nagar, Mohali, recently held Max Super Speciality Hospital and its neurosurgeon liable for medical negligence and deficiency in service. The commission directed the hospital to pay Rs 4.75 lakh in compensation to the patient’s family.
This incident once again underscores the urgent need for strict adherence to emergency medical protocols and improved accountability in public healthcare systems.
