Tensions Rise at JPMC After Patient Death

A dispute between physicians and family members at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) escalated into a physical confrontation in the intensive care unit (ICU), triggered by the alleged unavailability of a bed, resulting in the demise of a critically ill patient.

Medical personnel were reportedly attacked by relatives of the patient, who later died. Security camera recordings confirm the occurrence of violence perpetrated against the doctors by the attendants.

The relatives alleged inadequate care, identifying the deceased as 17-year-old Nisar Ali, who was suffering from respiratory issues. Conversely, hospital administrators asserted that the patient had a severe sepsis infection and received optimal treatment while in critical condition.

Following the death, family members demonstrated outside the Saddar police station with the body, asserting that despite initial recommendations to move Nisar to the ICU and the presence of two available beds, admission was denied, sparking a heated argument.

Dr. Shiva Ram, who claims to be among the assaulted doctors, sought refuge at the Saddar police station along with his colleagues.

Dr. Shiva clarified that of the nine ICU beds, seven were occupied, with two reserved for gynecology patients. Upon being informed of the situation, he claims that the individuals were advised to seek care elsewhere.

The doctor stated that the aforementioned individuals then commenced to physically assault him.

He underscored that the administration is responsible for the shortage of beds, not the medical staff. He further added that only seven of the 30 beds in the surgical ward are currently occupied. The police have started an investigation into the matter.

The Young Doctors Association (YDA) has denounced the assault on Dr. Shiva and has declared a boycott of outpatient department (OPD) services at Jinnah hospital on Friday (today).

According to the YDA, Dr. Shiva was attacked by a group of 10 to 15 individuals inside the hospital’s ICU.

The association is calling for the immediate filing of a (FIR) and the prompt apprehension of everyone involved in the incident.