A father of a stillborn baby and the Tsumeb hospital has rubbished reports of maltreatment and neglect of a patient.
Eveline Marungu gave birth to a stillborn baby on Sunday evening as she was being rushed to labour at the Tsumeb Private Hospital.
However, she lost her baby because she gave birth on her own at the hospital premises before health workers could attend to her.
Social media has been abuzz, alleging there was some form of negligence from hospital staff members, who allegedly refused entry of the expectant mother because she had no mask on.
It is further alleged a security officer had to run inside to seek permission from staff members.
Shortly after his return to check up on the mother, he found the baby on the ground, full of sand, with the umbilical cord still attached.
At this point, the baby passed on.
These allegations were, however, denied and labelled as false by the father, Lucas Murungu, who said the death of the baby was unfortunate, adding they got all the assistance they needed.
“I see no problem with what happened. The arrival of the baby came too fast – and by the time we got there, her water just broke. The nurses were there to help through the whole process and even called my doctor, who responded swiftly – even though it was too late to save the baby,” stressed a saddened Marungu.
“My wife, Eveline, is now discharged – and she is recovering at home. Even though it is a difficult time, we shall overcome it. Therefore, what and who posted the misinformation on social media is unknown – and it is devoid of any truth because we got the necessary help on our side. I have communicated with the hospital management and we shall see the way forward.”
Equally, the private hospital managing director Andre Neethling rubbished the social medial remarks, saying they are investigating the matter and would provide the relevant details as it becomes available.
“Once complete with investigations and obtaining statements from various parties, we shall also give a report to the Ministry of Health and Social Services as to what transpired. Regarding the news on social media, we shall respond strongly to whoever authored the statement devoid of any truth and inaccuracies.” – osimasiku@nepc.com.na