In a shocking incident at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), a 15-day-old infant admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) died on Monday morning after reportedly falling from a phototherapy bed.
The baby, born to Smita Deka of Noonmati, had been admitted for jaundice treatment. According to GMCH Principal Dr. Achyut Chandra Baishya, during routine checks, staff discovered that two infants had fallen from their beds. One of them was found hanging from a phototherapy bed and could not be revived despite immediate medical intervention.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Baishya said, “The baby was delivered 15 days back and was under phototherapy for jaundice. Around 5:30 AM, a mother informed that the baby had fallen. We immediately tried to revive the infant but could not save him. Since I was not present at the time, I cannot comment further, but I have never heard of such an incident happening before. A senior-most inquiry committee has been constituted.”
He further stated that over 21 newborns were admitted in the NICU at the time, adding, “We have spoken to the parents and assured them of a thorough investigation. Our hospital delivers more than 700 babies every month, and such an incident is extremely rare.”
An eyewitness told media persons, “I heard that a baby was hanging from the bed. The doctors should have been more careful at night.”
Hospital authorities have assured that strict action will follow based on the findings of the inquiry.
