Alberton family seeks answers after the death of their newborn

A FAMILY from Alberton, Johannesburg, are seeking answers after their one-month-old daughter died due to alleged negligence at a private hospital.

- MONISHKA GOVENDER

Baby Safaa Doumissi was born on March 21, and had trouble breathing at birth.

Latanya Pillay, 28, her mother, said she had no complications during her pregnancy.

"After Safaa was born, she was taken into the neonatal intensive care unit because her oxygen levels had dropped to 50%. On the second day, after tests, we found out she had a heart condition — aortic stenosis.

“Due to lack of equipment, she was transferred to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital where she was treated by specialists and with treatment, she appeared to be getting better.”

Pillay said while Safaa’s condition was improving, the specialist had said that she needed a heart transplant.

“On day eight, a cardiogram (ECG) was done but they said they could not operate. But she was doing well and drinking her milk,” added Pillay.

Pillay said Safaa was discharged from hospital on April 2.

However, on May 1 at 2.30am, Safaa was rushed back to a nearby hospital because her breathing became rapid, raising concerns.

The doctor on duty said there was nothing wrong with Safaa and was sent home.

“She was fine until 6pm, when we noticed that she was battling to breathe again.”

The family took her to another hospital.

“We went straight to the emergency reception and told them that our baby had a heart condition and she needed to see a doctor.

“The receptionist told us to wait and a nurse would assist us. While waiting a pregnant woman came into the emergency ward. Her water had broken and she was seen first.