Family raises concerns over hospital care
Serious new allegations of medical negligence have emerged at Larnaca General Hospital following the death of a 92-year-old patient in recent days. The deceased’s daughter described to RIK what she says were tragic and unacceptable conditions, highlighting systemic dysfunction during her father’s hospital stay.
Multiple patient deaths reported
She urged all responsible parties to assume accountability, noting that five patients reportedly died during the eight days her father was hospitalised.
Initial admission issues
Speaking to the state broadcaster, the daughter recounted her father’s admission, saying he had a mild stroke and spent five hours in the Emergency Department. A doctor told the family he would be admitted and receive fluids before being transferred to the Gregorios Clinic due to bed shortages. She said her father appeared slightly confused but well initially, and that she provided food and tea as no instructions were given.
Deteriorating condition and lack of guidance
The daughter described her father’s worsening condition: “In the morning, he was very restless. A nurse asked us to sign for restraints. On the second day, he again showed distress. Despite informing doctors he had eaten, he received mashed potato and noodles, causing him to aspirate. After his stroke, he should not have eaten or drunk anything. Not a single drop of water.”
Inadequate coordination and monitoring
She criticised the hospital’s lack of coordination, explaining that staff followed their routine without clear instructions from the attending doctor. She requested intensive care monitoring, but was told he would only be checked intermittently. The family sought additional assistance from Nicosia and pushed for proper treatment, including placement of a nasogastric tube, which took multiple failed attempts.
Alleged unprofessional conduct
The daughter also highlighted unprofessional behaviour, recounting that a doctor laughed while discussing her father’s treatment. She said the lack of timely administration of medication and insufficient monitoring contributed to her father slipping into lethargy.
Tragic outcome and family plea
Recalling the final moments, she said: “I left for an hour and returned to find my father dead, alone, with discoloured nails. Staff had not noticed. I filed a complaint with the director and will write to OKyPΥ. Many must take responsibility. In eight days, five people died. The hospital in Larnaca is failing. Enough is enough.”
Previous incidents and official response
This marks the third complaint regarding patient deaths from alleged medical negligence at Larnaca General Hospital.
OKyPΥ spokesman Charalambos Charilaou said that no written complaint has yet been received. He added that instructions for an immediate investigation were issued as soon as the allegation became public.
Also read: OKYPY investigates complaint over 72-year-old’s death at Larnaca Hospital
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