A Cape Town woman, Gerda Kruger, has raised concerns over the emergency care at Victoria Hospital after her partner, Philip Kruger, died just days after seeking help at the emergency unit. Philip Kruger died in the early hours of March 6 after what was later identified as a vascular emergency.
According to Gerda Kruger, Philip developed severe pain in his right calf on March 3, accompanied by numbness in his foot, and his condition worsened overnight. In the early hours of March 4, she took him to Victoria Hospital, arriving shortly after 3:15am. Gerda Kruger alleges that after waiting without assistance, she entered the triage room and found a nurse asleep.
Negligence Allegations
Gerda Kruger further alleges that after the nurse woke up, basic checks were conducted, including an ECG and blood pressure reading, but Philip’s leg was not examined. The couple was told he would have to wait about eight hours to be seen by a doctor. Gerda Kruger said Philip’s pain intensified and he struggled to walk, prompting them to leave the hospital and return home.
Later that morning, a general practitioner examined him and reportedly identified a vascular emergency, noting no pulse in his foot or behind his knee, and discolouration of the leg. He was referred by ambulance to Groote Schuur Hospital, where he was assessed by specialists. According to the complaint, doctors determined that the leg was no longer viable and that an above-knee amputation would be required.
Investigation and Response
Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness spokesperson, Monique Johnstone, conveyed condolences to the family and confirmed hospital management had engaged with Gerda Kruger. Johnstone said the patient had initially been triaged as “green”, indicating a stable condition, but was later re-assessed and upgraded to “yellow” as his pain escalated. The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is investigating the allegations of negligence.
A full investigation has been called for, with Gerda Kruger hoping that the complaint will lead to accountability and prevent similar incidents. No one should be sent home in that kind of pain, she said. The incident has raised concerns over the emergency care at Victoria Hospital and the need for improved patient care.
- Improved patient care and assessment
- Reduced waiting times
- Increased staff training and accountability
The incident is a reminder of the importance of proper patient care and assessment, and the need for hospitals to prioritize patient safety. As the National Department of Health continues to work towards improving healthcare services, incidents like this highlight the need for continued vigilance and improvement.
