In a recent turn of events at the 895-bedded multi-super-specialty Shalinitai Meghe Hospital & Research Centre (SMHRC), Wanadongri, a series of unfortunate events stemming from misunderstandings and misinformation have been clarified, ultimately alleviating significant distress for a patient and her family regarding a medical procedure. The details below highlight key points and lessons from this story.
Last year, a 42-year-old female from Seoni, Madhya Pradesh, was admitted to SMHRC with symptoms of fever, burning micturition, and retention of urine. She was diagnosed with Pyelonephritis, Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), and Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). Under the care of Dr. Neha Agarwal and Dr. Akshay Kriplani from the Critical Care and Urology units, respectively, received treatment at SMHRC.
Following thorough investigation, the patient underwent surgery, including a cystoscopy with bilateral DJ stenting. Despite receiving optimal treatment in a subsidized package, the patient’s relatives chose to discharge her against medical advice. Although follow-up was advised, unfortunately, she did not return.
Post-discharge, the patient sought care from unqualified practitioners who misinterpreted the DJ stent on an X-ray as a foreign object (a scissor) in the stomach. This misinterpretation led to unnecessary panic and distress, as the patient and her relatives were misled into believing that a surgical error had occurred, resulting in anxiety and distrust towards the hospital and medical professionals.
The hospital administration became aware of the situation when the patient was admitted to GMC-Nagpur. Immediate action was taken by Dr.Vasant Gawande- SMHRC CMS to clarify the misunderstanding. Upon re-evaluation by the hospital’s surgical team and a proper X-ray examination, it was clarified that the object in question was the previously inserted DJ stent aimed at relieving the patient’s pyelonephritis and improving kidney function.
SMHRC demonstrated compassion and responsibility by offering free treatment, surgery (DJ stent removal), and medications, as well as waiving all hospital bills due to the patient’s financial constraints.
This incident underscores the importance of seeking proper medical care from authorized doctors and adhering to medical advice, as misinterpretations from unauthorized sources can lead to unnecessary panic and distress. The hospital urges patients and their relatives to prioritize expert medical guidance and avoid decisions against the advice of treating physicians for their well-being and safety.
The relatives and patient expressed gratitude to SMHRC management for the altruistic social gesture and free treatment offered to them despite no mistake on the hospital’s part. The patient was happily discharged with a smiling face from the hospital, emphasizing the adage “all’s well that ends well.”
Dr. Anup Marar- SMHRC Director stated that this case serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of misinformation and the importance of seeking proper medical care from qualified professionals. It also highlights the commendable actions of the hospital in addressing the situation with empathy and providing necessary support to the patient and her family.