Saudi Gazette report

DAMMAM — Relatives accused a local hospital here for negligence after a family member died due to an alleged medical error.

Ali Al-Nasser said his aunt Nidaa Al-Mubarak was admitted the Medical Tower Hospital on Tuesday for an appendix surgery.

“My aunt got out of the hospital the next day and began complaining about sharp pains in her abdomen. We had to take her back to the hospital Thursday evening. They took hours to tend to her and when they finally did they reported that there were secretions coming out of where the surgery was done. The doctors should have sanitized the area but they did not,” said Al-Nasser.

He said the doctors had to interfere immediately to avoid infection.

“She eventually died apparently due to the doctors’ negligence. The family members urged the doctors to give her the necessary medical care but they were being very inefficient at their job. We are demanding an investigation. We want to see everyone responsible for the death of my aunt punished,” said Al-Nasser.

Head of Communications at First Health Medical Complex in the Eastern Province Mohammad Al-Muqaibil confirmed the family’s narration of the sequence of events, which was supported by reports from paramedics.

However, he said, “The patient was 50 years old and she received the medical treatment required for her case. The doctor found fluid in the incision made for the surgery and tried to remove it but her health quickly deteriorated. She died due to a cancer in the appendix area, which was in the advanced stage.”

Al-Muqaibil said an investigative committee was formed to look into the incident as medical negligence was confirmed. “There was nothing the doctors could do to save her but there were unorthodox protocols taken with the patient. Everyone responsible will be penalized for their violations were confirmed,” he said.