Makueni nurse turns away woman in labour over alleged complaint made to superiors

According to Tabitha Mutuku, the mother-in-law to the expectant mother, Glorious Wanja began experiencing labour pains in the early hours of Saturday. The family quickly secured a boda boda and rushed her to the local dispensary, arriving at around 6:00 a.m.

Mutuku recounted that upon arrival, they proceeded to the nurse's residence within the facility to seek help. 

However, she claims the nurse refused to attend to them, citing a previous complaint allegedly made by one of Wanja’s relatives. 

The nurse is said to have accused the family of reporting her to her superiors for allegedly administering “half doses” of medication.

“She told us she wouldn’t help us because we had reported her. We had no choice but to turn to a local traditional midwife,” Mutuku said.

The mother and baby survived the ordeal, but the incident has sparked outrage in the community. It comes at a time when the government is actively promoting hospital deliveries to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.

Dr. Paul Musila, the Executive Committee Member for Health in Makueni County, confirmed that his office had received information about the incident.

“I have dispatched a team to investigate the matter. I expect a full report by Monday at 10 a.m. so that appropriate action can be taken,” Dr. Musila stated.

The case has raised questions about the conduct of health personnel in rural dispensaries and the accessibility of quality maternal care in remote areas. 

The County Health Department has assured the public that the matter will be addressed with the seriousness it deserves.