Shocking Allegations: SGH Doctors Accused of Brutalizing Patients During Blood Draw – Hospital’s Response Raises Eyebrows

SGH Responds to Family’s Concerns Following Patient’s Experience

In a recent incident that has caught the attention of many, Singapore General Hospital (SGH) has addressed a complaint made by the family of a patient. On January 8, Teri Tan took to Facebook to share her father’s distressing experience during his hospital stay. She described how her father’s hands were left bruised after staff allegedly treated him like a “guinea pig” during blood collection procedures.

A Troubling Experience in the Hospital

On November 23, Teri noticed multiple needle marks and swelling on her father’s left hand. She expressed her concern, stating, “SGH staff tried to collect blood by repeatedly inserting and removing the needle into various parts of my father’s hand, as if they were figuring out which was the correct spot.” This repeated attempt left her father with significant bruising.

By December 2, the situation worsened when Teri saw that her father’s right hand was also swollen and bruised. When she spoke with the staff nurse, she learned that a resident doctor was responsible for the injuries. Teri requested to meet with the doctor but was told he was busy with rounds. After waiting for 40 minutes, she was informed that the doctor had already left for the day, which left her feeling frustrated and unheard.

SGH’s Response and Explanation

Following the family’s concerns, SGH issued a statement through Associate Professor Loo Chian Min, Chairman of the Division of Medicine. He explained that elderly patients often have fragile skin and thin veins, making blood collection challenging and sometimes resulting in bruising, even when performed by skilled staff.

SGH also clarified that when Teri requested to speak with the doctor, he had already left for the day. Although the doctor attempted to reach out to Teri, he was unable to contact her directly and instead spoke with the patient’s wife to explain the situation. SGH expressed gratitude that the wife understood their explanation and accepted their apology for the discomfort caused.

Improving Communication and Transparency

This incident highlights an opportunity for SGH to enhance their communication and transparency with patients and their families. Here are some suggestions on how SGH can improve:

• Regular Updates: Establish a system for regular updates on the patient’s condition, treatment plans, and any changes. This could be through scheduled meetings, phone calls, or an online portal.
• Feedback Channels: Create accessible channels for families to provide feedback and raise concerns, such as suggestion boxes or online forms. It’s crucial for SGH to listen and respond promptly.
• Patient Advocates: Implement patient advocacy programs where trained staff act as liaisons between patients and the hospital, addressing concerns and ensuring families feel supported.
• Clear Complaint Process: Develop a transparent process for handling complaints, including prompt acknowledgment and thorough investigations, with timely updates to families.
• Senior Doctor Availability: Ensure senior doctors are available to address concerns, possibly through designated consultation hours or as points of contact for patients.

By adopting these protocols, SGH can build trust and improve the overall patient experience, ensuring that families feel heard and valued during their healthcare journey.

For more information on patient care and rights in Singapore, visit SGH’s official website.