The call for review comes as her parents allege their concerns about her condition were ignored by the hospital.
A hospital in Melbourne is to be reviewed after an eight-year-old girl died 21 hours after going to its emergency department complaining of stomach pain.
Amrita Varshini Lanka had symptoms that included vomiting and fever as well. Her parents consulted a general practitioner on April 29, who referred her to the hospital with suspected appendicitis, the ABC reported.
However, the little girl died 21 hours after admission in Monash Children’s Hospital and the parents are still trying to find answers to the cause of her death.
ABC reported that the hospital carried out initial assessments including abdominal scan and ruled out appendicitis and told her mother that Amrita probably had gastroenteritis. Later that evening, she was given fluids via intravenous drip, but her condition did not improve.
According to ABC, Amrita began to have breathing difficulties soon after. Her mother tried to contact staff assistance, even ran to the reception area for help, but she alleges that help was not forthcoming.
When help finally arrived, the mother claims she was told that Amrita had an empty stomach and there was nothing to worry about. The child went into cardiac arrest soon after and died early next morning.
Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley expressed his “thoughts and deepest sympathies” for the family and has confirmed that Amrita’s death will be examined by the coroner and Safe Care Victoria.
“Until that process is complete it would be terrible for me to say more, other than our deepest sympathies to the family and all those who are involved in what is really a tragic set of circumstances,” Mr Foley told reporters on Wednesday.
Premier Daniel Andrews has also said there will be a full review of Monash Health.
Monash Health has released a statement saying it had contacted the family for support and an investigation would be undertaken.
“This is a very upsetting time for the family, and we offer our sincere condolences to the child’s family and friends,” a Monash Health spokesperson said.
Amrita leaves behind her heartbroken parents and a nine-year-old brother, who is yet to come to terms with her passing. The family had a funeral for their daughter on Saturday.
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