The medical intensive care unit (ICU) of Pulmonology Department of Services Hospital has been facing many problems, including the shortage of staff and medical facilities.
It was transpired during a visit to the hospital that the tin-roof of the ICU had developed cracks and rainwater was leaking from it, causing severe problems for the patients.
The leakage of the roof was also damaging costly equipment, including ventilators. Rafts were also visible, showing the dilapidated condition of the building.
There were no isolated compartments in the unit separated by glass walls, and patients in critical condition were seen on the beds separated by curtains only.
There was no system of fumigation of the ward after discharge of the patients. Many staffers were seen entering the ICU in routine footwear, exposing patients in critical condition to various kinds of infections.
The 10-bed ICU also faced a shortage of staff, as only five medical officers (MOs) with two senior registrars (SRs) were available to run the unit for 24 hours. A doctor said on a condition of anonymity that at least eight more trained MOs were required to serve the ward effectively.
As per the WHO standards, one nurse is required to look after one bed, but only eight nurses were available there to run three 8-hour shifts. At least 20 more nurses were required there.
When contacted, Medical Superintendent Dr Salahuddin Khan at first refused to comment and later reluctantly said that repair work was underway in the ICU with donated money, with the efforts of the staff. He refused to give further details.
The attendants also complained about the problems being faced by them and appealed to the health department high-ups to take notice of the situation.