Chilling Reality: Anesthetist Faces Charges for Dismissing C-Section Patient’s Pain

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In a distressing incident from New Zealand, a woman undergoing a c-section in 2013 expressed intense discomfort, only to be told repeatedly that she was feeling “pressure, not pain.” When her agony became unbearable, she pleaded with the anesthetist for additional pain relief, but was told that giving her more medication could “harm the baby.”

During a recent hearing at the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, the woman recounted her experience, highlighting that she not only received inadequate pain management during her surgery but also afterward. Reports indicate that concerns about her pain were raised not just by her, but also by another doctor, a midwife, and a nurse. Alarmingly, there were clear signs that the anesthesia wasn’t effective, such as her ability to feel pinching and ice and even involuntarily kicking one of her legs. The prosecuting attorney claimed that the anesthetist remained “disinterested,” dismissing her pain as mere pressure and suggesting that a natural birth would be more painful.

It’s hard to fathom how someone tasked with managing pain could argue with a patient about their discomfort while they are on the operating table. Many who’ve experienced a c-section can relate to how overwhelming the preparation and anesthesia can be. Imagine being in a vulnerable position, only to have the professional responsible for your pain management downplay your experience. It’s truly a nightmare scenario.

The anesthetist in question faces three charges related to his care of the patient: failing to provide adequate pain relief prior to the procedure, not effectively communicating to assess her pain levels, and not alleviating her suffering. To make matters worse, doctors later informed the woman that she may not be able to conceive naturally, leaving her terrified at the thought of having to go through another c-section. In a previous ruling by the Health and Disability Commissioner, the nurse involved was noted for her “striking lack of empathy.” Those are definitely not the words anyone wants associated with someone meant to ensure comfort during surgery.

“My pain was very real and of a totally unacceptable level during abdominal surgery. To have my complaints downplayed as ‘pressure’ is unacceptable,” she stated. This anesthetist is shaping up to be a real-life horror story, and perhaps they should consider a career away from operating rooms.

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Summary

A New Zealand woman undergoing a c-section faced severe pain, which was dismissed by the anesthetist as mere pressure. Despite her pleas for help, she received inadequate pain relief both during and after the procedure. The case highlights the importance of empathy and effective communication in medical care, especially during such vulnerable times.