Gauteng health dept to reduce medical negligence

Steps are being taken to reduce the number of medical negligence cases involving pregnant women and newborn babies, the Gauteng health department said on Monday.

 

"Negligence cases are taken seriously and disciplinary processes are followed where necessary," said spokesman Simon Zwane in a statement.  "Last year, 34 staff members in the province were disciplined in relation to medical negligence."

  

In the 2012/2013 financial year, 188 doctors and 203 nurses were trained to manage obstetric emergencies and nurses were trained to use early warning charts.  Zwane said the department had also prioritised purchasing equipment for all hospitals.

 

 "Last year, cardiotocography and foetal monitors were purchased." Zwane said 120 nurses were trained in midwifery and 79 were trained in advanced midwifery and neonatology last year.

 

"The training of nurses on neonatal resuscitation was also carried out to improve the survival of babies and prevent injuries," he said. "There is ongoing training in all facilities to improve attitudes and communication between staff and patients," Zwane said.

 

- Sapa