By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Gauteng Department of Health said it is deeply saddened, after a woman hanged herself in a bathroom at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital.
The department issued a statement on Monday evening, confirming the death of the woman at the Tshwane hospital earlier in the day.
“The patient had been admitted to the hospital on 21 September 2024 and was receiving care in the hospital’s ward 37,” Gauteng Health said.
“On Monday, 23 September 2024, at approximately 1pm, a nurse making her rounds noticed that a bathroom door was locked.”
“After knocking several times without a response, she requested assistance from another nurse.
“The two nurses forcefully opened the door and devastatingly discovered the patient hanging by a cellphone charger cable inside.”
The department stated immediate efforts were undertaken to resuscitate the woman. However, a doctor was called to the scene and certified she was dead.
The hospital staff, who were deeply affected by this traumatic experience, are receiving counselling and support.
The South African Police Service (Saps) were informed and are currently investigating the matter.
The department added it extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time.
“The department remains committed to providing compassionate and safe health care and will continue to work toward preventing such incidents from occurring in the future.”