A patient was recently discovered by nurses hanging form a tree at Mabeskraal Clinic in the North West following consultation. It is alleged he committed suicide.
According to the provincial secretary of the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (Denosa), the patient complained of an acute stomach pains when he arrived at the clinic’s trauma unit around 4am and he was to be referred to Moses Kotane Hospital for advanced care. “While the nurse stepped away briefly to collect a referral letter as part of the transfer process, the patient tragically took his own life within the clinic premises.
The incident happened while the remaining clinical staff, a second professional nurse and an enrolled nursing assistant, were attending to a maternity case in another section of the facility. “One security officer was also on duty at the time,” he said.
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The hospital and Denosa extended their heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time. “We also stand in full solidarity with the healthcare professionals who were on duty and who have been deeply affected by the incident. We acknowledge and support the legal and procedural investigations that may follow. Accountability is an essential component in building public trust.” Department of Health spokesperson still to respond to the matter.
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Cece Smith 