In a troubling incident from New Zealand, a woman undergoing a cesarean section in 2013 reported severe pain during the procedure, only to be told by her anesthetist that what she felt was merely “pressure.” Despite her pleas for more pain relief, the anesthetist allegedly claimed that administering additional medication could harm her baby.
At a recent hearing with the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, the woman recounted her experience, highlighting that her suffering was not only ignored during the surgery but also dismissed afterward. Multiple healthcare professionals, including another doctor, a midwife, and a nurse, expressed concern regarding her pain levels. Notably, the woman exhibited clear signs that her anesthesia was insufficient, including the ability to feel pinching and ice, as well as involuntary leg movements.
The prosecuting attorney stated that the anesthetist appeared indifferent to the woman’s distress, maintaining that she was experiencing pressure rather than pain and suggesting that a natural birth would be more painful. This perspective is concerning, as the anesthetist’s primary responsibility is to assess and manage pain effectively.
For many patients, the anxiety surrounding a c-section is compounded by the administration of anesthesia. The thought of being on the operating table while the person responsible for pain management disputes the severity of the pain is distressing. The anesthetist now faces three charges: failing to ensure adequate pain relief before the procedure, neglecting to communicate effectively with the patient regarding her pain, and not alleviating her discomfort.
The woman, who was informed by her doctors that natural conception may no longer be an option for her, is understandably fearful of undergoing another c-section. Past evaluations by the Health and Disability Commissioner criticized the nurse involved for demonstrating a “striking lack of empathy,” a critical quality for anyone tasked with ensuring patient comfort during surgery.
“My pain was very real and of an unacceptable level during abdominal surgery. To have my complaints downplayed as ‘pressure’ is unacceptable,” she stated. This incident underscores the importance of proper pain management in surgical settings, as well as the need for medical professionals to listen to their patients’ concerns.
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In summary, the case of an anesthetist neglecting a patient’s pain during a c-section raises serious questions about patient care and empathy in medical settings. Such experiences highlight the need for ongoing education and awareness about pain management practices in healthcare.
Keyphrase: anesthetist charges c-section pain
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