Maggots found in patient's wound: Senior resident suspended

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A senior resident doctor at the Medical College Hospital has been suspended in connection with an incident in which maggots were found in the leg wound of a patient who was recovering in the ICU after surgery. The action was taken against Dr Abhijith, a senior resident in Orthopaedic Unit Four. Health Minister K. Muraleedharan informed the Assembly about the decision.

Senior residents are doctors who serve for one year in medical colleges after completing their postgraduate studies. Dr Abhijith's one-year term was due to end next week. The suspension was based on the findings of an inquiry committee comprising the Medical College Vice Principal and the heads of the Orthopaedics and Surgery departments.

The inquiry report found that Dr Abhijith, who was on duty at the time, failed to examine the wound or change the dressing despite being responsible for the patient's care. The committee termed it a serious lapse.

The patient, Rajendra Prasad from Kollam, was admitted to Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital on July 28 after suffering serious injuries in an accident. A metal rod was inserted to treat a fracture in his leg. His family discovered maggots in the wound when he was shifted from the ICU to a ward on Monday night.

'Temporary senior resident made scapegoat'
Meanwhile, the suspension has sparked criticism, with some alleging that a temporary senior resident has been made a scapegoat while no action has been taken against permanent doctors or nursing staff in the orthopaedic unit.

The decision has also caused resentment among doctors, especially since Dr Abhijith's term was nearing completion. Critics claim that authorities suspended the senior resident to avoid controversy and protect permanent staff from disciplinary action and possible protests.

Some have argued that the action against the senior resident allows the real culprits to escape accountability while giving the impression that disciplinary action has been taken.