A case of medical negligence in Malaysia has led to a family being awarded RM5.9 million (approx. 1,820,695.50 SGD) in compensation after two senior doctors left a critically bleeding patient unattended during childbirth.
A Mother’s Unattended Bleeding
On January 9, 2019, M. Punita, a 36-year-old mother of two, suffered severe postpartum hemorrhaging following the delivery of her second child at Shan Maternity and Birthing Centre in Klang.
The incident began after her placenta was removed, leading to excessive bleeding.
Court documents revealed that Dr. M. Shanmugam, the clinic owner, and Dr. A. Ravi, both experienced obstetricians, left the delivery room at a critical time.
According to NST Dr. Ravi left the clinic to get a drink, while Dr. Shanmugam also exited, leaving Punita under the care of three unregistered nurses.
When Punita’s mother entered the room, she found her daughter bleeding heavily while the nurses tried to stem the flow with cotton.
Despite their attempts, Punita was rushed to Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital (HTAR) in Klang in critical condition.
Unfortunately, she passed away despite emergency surgery and transfusions.
Medical Negligence and Inadequate Resources
The Klang High Court found that Shan Maternity and Birthing Centre lacked basic medical supplies, including necessary drugs to manage uterine bleeding and equipment to address postpartum complications.
The court also noted that both doctors failed to anticipate the risks typically associated with childbirth.
Judge Norliza Othman condemned the doctors for their failure to act swiftly and for leaving the patient in the hands of unqualified nurses.
“The collective negligence of the defendants directly contributed to the deceased’s severe injuries, leading to her death,” the judge said.
The court further emphasized that timely action, including transferring Punita to a properly equipped hospital, could have prevented her death.
Compensation Awarded: A Step Toward Justice
In light of the negligence, the family filed a lawsuit against the doctors and nurses involved. As a result, the Klang High Court awarded a total of RM5,993,936 (approx. 1,820,695.50 SGD) in damages.
This includes RM500,000 (approx. 151,909 SGD) for Punita’s pain and suffering, RM1 million (approx. 303,870.24 SGD) for each of her two children, and additional sums for her parents.
The doctors were also ordered to pay aggravated and punitive damages for their roles in the tragedy.
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
Principal in China Fired Over Chocolate Gift Sues Kindergarten, Wins Case
Viral Video of Alleged School Bus Bullying Raises Concerns and Sparks Debate
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
If you can, please do consider buying a mug or two to support Wake Up Singapore’s work!
