The Trinidad and Tobago Medical Association (T&TMA) says it looks forward to the final report and recommendations that will emerge from the investigations into the deaths of several babies at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Port of Spain General Hospital (POSGH).
“The Association awaits the reports of the ongoing investigations and advocates for the timely implementation of the recommendations proffered,” the T&TMA said in an official statement issued last night.
“We hope this would help prevent the recurrence of a similar situation and encourage the public confidence in the NICU services across both islands,” it added.
The Association acknowledged the yeoman service that paediatric staff—both doctors and nurses—have provided in caring for neonates in the past.
“The care of neonates—especially those that are premature—is a complex task with many factors to consider, which include the risk of feeding problems, increase in infections and respiratory distress (breathing problems), among others,” the T&TMA explained.
It observed: “Our paediatric and nursing colleagues have shouldered this “Herculean” task for years with diligence, skill and empathy, understanding the delicate balance of the multiple complications associated with early deliveries.”
The T&TMA also extended “sincerest condolences” to the affected families, acknowledging the impact of the babies’ deaths on everyone involved.
“Like the rest of the nation, we are disheartened by the news of the deaths of several neonates at the Port of Spain General Hospital,” the Association stated.
“We recognize the negative impact and emotional distress on the parents and other loved ones, as well as on all of the health care workers involved in the care of these children,” it said.