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23 Jul 2009

Gauteng Department of Health and Social Development concluded its investigation into the conduct of three nurses who were suspended, after the death of a 12 year old at Edenvale Hospital on the Gauteng East Rand last month.

Samukelisiwe Sikhundla was admitted at the hospital with tonsillitis, but died of fractured skull and a dislocated spine. As a pre-cautionary measure three nurses who were on duty were suspended pending an internal investigation.

The investigation has since cleared the nurses of any wrong doing and recommends that their precautionary suspension be lifted with immediate effect. It however recommends that two doctors and the nurses in charge of the ward that night be charged with misconduct.

The department will also refer the matter to the Health Professionals Council of South Africa. Gauteng MEC for Health and Social Development, Qedani Mahlangu, reiterates that incompetence, negligence and misconduct will not be tolerated and that tough disciplinary measures would be taken against any one guilty of such.

"Those found to be guilty of these acts will be kicked out of the system and if they are also found to be criminally liable for their actions, the law must take its course. While we understand that doctors and nurses work under difficult conditions, ill-treatment and abuse of patients cannot be justified," said Mahlangu.

The MEC also encouraged members of public who experience poor service at hospitals to report these through a call centre which operates 24 hours.

The telephone numbers are as follows: 011 488-4394 or 011 488 4366 or 011 488 4351 and 011 488 4445.

Enquiries:
Mandla Sidu
Cell: 082 773 9013

Issued by: Department of Health and Social Development, Gauteng Provincial Government
23 July 2009

Issued by: Gauteng Health
23 Jul 2009

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