KARACHI: A tense situation unfolded in the intensive care unit (ICU) at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) following a dispute between doctors and patient’s family members, stemming from a perceived lack of available beds, which occurred before the critical patient died.

Reports indicate that physicians were allegedly attacked by the family of a patient who later died. Security camera recordings confirm the outbreak of aggression against the medical professionals by the patient’s attendants.

Family members claim the hospital did not give suitable care to the patient, identified as 17-year-old Nisar Ali, who was reportedly suffering from a respiratory illness. However, hospital administrators argue that the patient was critically ill with a sepsis infection and was being provided the highest level of treatment possible.

In response to the patient’s death, the family organized a demonstration in front of the Saddar police station, accompanied by the body. They asserted that despite the initial advice from doctors to move Nisar to the ICU and the presence of two empty beds, admission was denied, which led to a fierce argument.

Dr. Shiva Ram, one of the doctors allegedly attacked, sought refuge at the Saddar police station along with his co-workers.

Dr. Shiva clarified that the ICU contains nine beds, with seven occupied and two reserved for gynecology patients. He reported that upon the arrival of the individuals at the ICU, they were informed about the bed availability, and advised to seek care elsewhere.

According to the doctor, these individuals then commenced to physically assault him.

He also stressed that the bed shortage issue within the hospital is the responsibility of the administration, not the doctors. Furthermore, he noted that only seven of the 30 beds in the surgical ward are currently in service. Law enforcement has started an inquiry into the events.

In the meantime, the Young Doctors Association (YDA) has strongly condemned the attack on Dr. Shiva and has announced a suspension of outpatient department (OPD) services at Jinnah hospital for Friday (today).

The YDA stated that Dr. Shiva was attacked within the ICU ward by a group of 10 to 15 people.

The association is urging for the immediate filing of a first information report (FIR) and the prompt detention of everyone implicated in the assault.

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