Sharmili Mallick

Bhubaneswar: Tension flared up at the Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar today after a lady staff of the SNCU died allegedly due to medical negligence. The deceased identified as Anupama Nayak was reportedly working as an attendant in Sick Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the hospital since the last 10 years.

Following the incident, Nayak's colleagues and family members staged a dharna by placing her body outside the office of Hospital Superintendent. The agitating staff further demanded compensation and job for one of the family members of Nayak.

Reportedly, Nayak was admitted to the hospital Tuesday afternoon after she complained of ill health and breathing problem. Couple of hours later, when her health condition deteriorated, the doctors referred her to the ICU. However, the concerned authorities at the ICU denied the same citing unavailability of a bed.

“We admitted her to the hospital in the afternoon. Couple of hours after admission, when her health condition deteriorated, doctors referred her to the ICU. However, the concerned authorities at the ICU denied a bed citing unavailability. Being a staff of the hospital, my mother was not given a bed in the ICU but other patients at the same time were being allotted beds,” alleged Nayak’s son.

“We want to know why Nayak, despite being a staff, was not given a bed in the ICU. Her family has lost an earning member and we demand a job for her son in the hospital,” said an agitating staff.

The Director of Capital Hospital has assured an enquiry into the incident stating that appropriate action will be taken against the persons responsible for the alleged mismanagement.

“This is an unfortunate incident. I held discussion with the Deputy Superintendent. Appropriate action will be taken against those found guilty after an enquiry into the matter. I request all the staff to withdraw the agitation and join work,” assured the director, Ashok Patnaik.

As per latest reports, the agitating staff have withdrawn the stir after being assured of a probe and subsequent action against those responsible, within seven days.

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