The management of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, has clarified the circumstances surrounding the death of a pregnant woman, Mrs Uche-Chukwudokwe Amarachi, dismissing reports that she died after being admitted for “cold and catarrh.”
The hospital, in a statement issued through its Public Relations Office, said the deceased was brought to the teaching hospital at 14 weeks of pregnancy after receiving treatment at a private hospital for generalized body swelling and difficulty in breathing.
According to the hospital, investigations conducted at COOUTH revealed significant anaemia, proteinuria, haematuria and pleural effusion. The medical team subsequently diagnosed her with nephrotic syndrome, a serious kidney condition capable of posing significant risks during pregnancy.
COOUTH said a multidisciplinary team reviewed the case and counselled the patient’s husband on the need to terminate the pregnancy in order to preserve the woman’s life. However, the hospital said the patient and her husband initially declined the recommendation.
The hospital added that the patient was later transfused with three units of blood and received other medical interventions and supportive care. Her condition, however, subsequently deteriorated and she became unconscious.
According to the statement, the husband eventually gave consent for the termination of the pregnancy on the same day, after which the medical team commenced preparations for the procedure.
“Sadly, despite these efforts, the patient passed away later that same day, before the termination of pregnancy could be performed,” the hospital stated.
COOUTH said the death was associated with the progression of the patient’s underlying medical condition rather than the minor ailment portrayed in some social media reports.
The management described the narratives circulating on social media as misleading and capable of damaging the reputation of the hospital and healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care.
It urged members of the public to verify information before sharing unconfirmed claims, particularly those relating to sensitive medical cases.
The hospital expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to ethical, evidence-based medical practice, patient confidentiality and the provision of quality healthcare services.
COOUTH maintained that the circumstances surrounding the patient’s death should be understood within the context of her documented medical condition and the treatment provided at the facility.