Negligence at Jalandhar Hospital Leads to Three Deaths, Staff Suspended
Three patients died at the Civil Hospital in Jalandhar after a glitch disrupted the central oxygen supply for nearly 30 minutes. An official inquiry found "unpardonable negligence" and poor management were responsible for the tragedy, despite the facility having four available oxygen sources. In response, the Punjab government has suspended the Medical Superintendent and a Senior Medical Officer, and dismissed a house surgeon, with a more detailed investigation underway to determine further accountability.
Unpacked:
A key technician was on leave, another had finished their shift, and an untrained ward boy was left in charge. The backup oxygen cylinders were not set to automatic mode, and their regulator knobs were shut, preventing a swift switch to backup supply. Lack of training and misuse of manual systems compounded the problem.
Yes, all three deceased patients were already in critical condition and on ventilators: one was being treated for a snakebite, another for tuberculosis, and the third for drug overdose. Hospital officials noted their precarious health but acknowledged the oxygen drop occurred shortly before their deaths.
The hospital had a PSA oxygen plant, dual compressors, a manifold system with 18–20 cylinders, a liquid oxygen plant, and 150 spare cylinders. Backup systems failed because they were not set to automatic mode, the staff responsible were untrained or absent, and regulator knobs were improperly managed.
The Punjab government suspended the Medical Superintendent and a Senior Medical Officer, and dismissed a house surgeon for dereliction of duty. A detailed investigation is ongoing to determine additional accountability or potential criminal negligence among staff.