PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The Trinidad and Tobago Medical Association (TTMA) says it is “disheartened” by the news of the deaths of several babies at the neonatal unit at the Port of Spain General Hospital (PoSGH) earlier this month acknowledging that the care of neonates, especially those who are premature, is a complex task with many factors to consider.
Lawyers for the parents of the babies, led by former attorney general Anand Ramlogan, SC, have already announced a class action lawsuit against the North West Regional Health Authority (NWRHA) even as the government confirmed that the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) will conduct a probe into the circumstrances that led to the deaths of at least eight babies.
The NWRHA had in a statement confirming the deaths between the period April 4-7, said laboratory investigations revealed the presence of three different organisms – serratia marcescens, ESBL Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Klebsiella aerogenes – all known to pose significant risks to vulnerable neonates.
“Despite administering high-dose antibiotics and providing advanced and intensive cardio-respiratory support, the infection claimed the lives of some of these preterm babies, all weighing under 1500 grammes and less than 32 weeks gestational age,” it added.
In a statement, the TTMA offered condolences to the families of the babies saying “like the rest of the nation, we are disheartened by the news of the deaths of several neonates at the PoSGH.
“We recognise the negative impact and emotional distress on the parents and other loved ones, as well as on all of the health care workers involved in the care of these children,” the TTMA said, adding that the care of neonates, especially those who are premature, is a complex task with many factors to consider, which include the risk of feeding problems, an increase in infections, and respiratory distress (breathing problems), among others.
“Our paediatric and nursing colleagues have shouldered this Herculean task for years with diligence, skill and empathy, understanding the delicate balance of the multiple complications associated with early deliveries,” the statement said.
The TTMA said it awaits the reports of the ongoing investigations and advocates for the timely implementation of the recommendations proffered.
“We hope this would help prevent the recurrence of a similar situation and encourage public confidence in the NICU services across both islands.”
