" A newborn has died and another has suspected brain damage after nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, was incorrectly administered instead of oxygen at Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital in Sydney's south-west.
New South Wales Health Minister Jillian Skinner said in a statement a machine in the neo-natal resuscitation unit had been incorrectly installed.
The incidents occurred this month and last month."
I cannot begin the imagine the anguish of the parents of these little ones, nor the panic currently going on in the Hospital and the Company accused of making this error.
I find it terribly distressing that this is probably because of human error and I know we all make mistakes, but I wonder if sometimes it is because the people doing the job are under pressure to achieve and to hurry up so that they can be off to another job and make more money for the company. There is inadequate nursing staff in our hospitals and those working there are under pressure to do so much more in less time, that patient care is often neglected.
Whatever the cause - stop for just a moment and think of the impact on so many lives - the devastation for the families concerned, the guilt and pain of those who will be blamed and how it will affect their whole lives.
This did not happen intentionally, and the pain is real for everyone concerned - let's be a little thoughtful for everyone concerned.
I don't envy the task of those who have to inquire into this and come to a conclusion. Whatever the result - the pain is real and soul shattering and will never go away.
Love and hugs,
Linda.
xxx
