A contractual nurse working at the prestigious Thanjavur Medical College Hospital has been summarily dismissed from service after a video documenting her unprofessional conduct went viral on social media. The footage showed the nurse making patients stand while she administered intravenous (IV) therapy, sparking widespread public anger and leading to swift disciplinary action.
Video Exposes Callous Conduct in Oncology Ward
The disturbing incident occurred within the oncology department of the hospital's multispecialty block. The nurse in question, identified as R Ranjitha, was employed on a contract basis under the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme. According to multiple complaints, Ranjitha consistently displayed an indifferent attitude towards her patients.
Instead of moving to the patients' bedsides, she would summon them to her seat. She then compelled them to remain standing throughout the entire process of setting up the intravenous fluid administration. Once the venous catheter was inserted, she reportedly instructed the patients or their accompanying relatives to physically carry the dextrose fluid bag by hand while moving around. This treatment created an undignified and highly uncomfortable experience for those already battling serious illness.
Public Outrage and Swift Investigation
The situation escalated when relatives of a patient pointed out an issue with the fluid bag. Instead of addressing the concern, the nurse allegedly scolded them and sent them away. The entire episode was captured on video by others in the ward and posted online on Tuesday, rapidly spreading across social media platforms and evoking fierce criticism.
Following the viral spread of the clip, Dean Dr S Poovathi launched an immediate investigation into the allegations. The inquiry confirmed the serious lapses in professional conduct and patient care protocols.
Immediate Dismissal and Institutional Scrutiny
In a decisive move, the hospital administration terminated the nurse's contract. Dean Dr S Poovathi confirmed to TOI, "We have issued orders permanently relieving the contract nurse R. Ranjitha from her duties after confirming the lapses." This action underscores a zero-tolerance policy towards negligence.
This is not the first time Thanjavur Medical College Hospital, a key referral facility for patients across the delta districts, has faced scrutiny. The institution has repeatedly been in the spotlight for reported instances of callous or indifferent conduct by some staff members toward patients, raising concerns about systemic issues in patient care and staff accountability.
