The Nigerian Society of Anaesthetists (NSA) is pushing for involvement in the Lagos State Government’s investigation into the death of Chimamanda Adichie’s 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi, citing concerns of medical negligence. The society’s National President, Prof. Alhassan Mohammed, is advocating for a senior anaesthetist to be part of the investigative panel to ensure a thorough review.
The Lagos State Government has launched a probe into the incident, with the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) already investigating Euracare Multispecialist Hospital, where Nkanu died. The investigation will look into compliance with clinical protocols, professional conduct, and patient safety standards.
Adichie has accused the hospital of negligence, alleging that her son was given an excessive dose of propofol and not properly monitored, leading to his death. The hospital has denied wrongdoing, stating that Nkanu arrived critically ill and that all necessary care was provided.
These cases highlight concerns about medical negligence in Nigeria, with other recent incidents including:
- Patient’s Urinary Damage: A Lagos resident filed a N500m claim against RJolad Hospital over alleged negligence.
- Doctor Sacked over Kidney Removal: A doctor was sacked in Ekiti State after a patient’s kidneys were removed during surgery.
- Pregnant Woman’s Death: A doctor was arrested in Edo State after a pregnant woman died post-caesarean section.
- Fake Pharmacist Harms Patient: A fake pharmacist was arrested in Bauchi after causing harm to a patient.
This situation demands that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) – the statutory body regulating medical and dental practice in Nigeria to intensify efforts to curb irregularities in the country’s healthcare system.
