KUALA LUMPUR – The family of Mohd Rum Anuar, who died in Shah Alam Hospital (HSA) following an operation to remove an intestinal tumour, is seeking an explanation on the cause of his demise from the healthcare facility.
In a statement issued by law firm Hafarizam Wan & Aisha Mubarak today on behalf the family, a letter of demand was sent to the hospital seeking Rum’s medical report, information regarding patient standard operating procedures (SOPs) in the intensive care unit (ICU) and an investigation report concerning the patient’s death.
The firm said that Rum was warded at HSA’s ICU on May 5 for treatment and removal of an intestinal tumour, adding that the patient had not contracted Covid-19 at that time.
“Following the operation, Rum was placed in the Male Operation Ward, bed 9A on the 13th floor, for recovery and strict observation with oxygen supply via tracheostomy,” the firm said.
Family members, the firm stated, were informed that, while the patient required strict observation, the hospital did not object to several family members taking turns caring for Rum between May 20 to last June 13.
“On June 6, a doctor informed the family that there are preparations to discharge the patient.
“However, another doctor who performed an examination said that the patient’s discharge from hospital should be delayed as his blood oxygen levels were low and were not in stable condition.
“On June 9, another doctor informed the family that Rum was recovering.”
Rum was then shifted to another room and placed next to a female patient, who exhibited symptoms of coughing and was not wearing a mask.
Due to the symptoms exhibited by the female patient, members of Rum’s family informed HSA of their concerns, but no immediate action was taken.
“Family members were only informed by doctors on June 13 that the female patient was positive for Covid-19, five days after Rum was transferred to the room.
“On the same date, Rum exhibited peculiar symptoms, such as fever and vomiting, which lasted for five days.
“On June 14, Rum had vomited thrice,” the firm said.
On June 13, Rum was tested for Covid-19, and was confirmed positive the next day.
He was deemed a category 4 patient as he required oxygen supply, and was moved to the Covid-19 ward on the ninth floor.
Rum was declared dead seven days later on June 21 at 4.22pm, with the cause of death stated as severe covid pneumonia with underlying colon carcinoma.
“Now, our client wants an explanation and determination from HSA regarding the facts mentioned as this happens to be a serious issue that requires the attention of all parties.
“Action, as well as an investigation, must be conducted immediately by the hospital.
“Following Rum’s passing, the majority of Rum’s family tested positive for Covid-19 and were forced to undergo quarantine.
“Despite the circumstances, the family expressed their appreciation of the frontliners’ efforts in treating patients at the hospital.” – The Vibes, July 16, 2021
