Family members of Iretiogo Oluwadara Akanro, a 40-year-old woman who died during a routine Computed Tomography (CT) scan at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, Ogun State, have threatened to sue doctors at the hospital for negligence.
The family believe the death was avoidable and wants N700 million from the hospital.
According to the family, Iretiogo, fondly called Ireti, had a persistent cough and went to Sacred Heart Hospital, Lantoro.
After frequent treatment, she did not improve.
On May 17, accompanied by her mother, Iretiogo returned to the hospital and was referred to FMC’s Pulmonology Department. A doctor conducted a Spirometry test on her, scheduling a CT scan for May 24.
Unfortunately, Ireti died following complications from the CT scan.
The family’s lawyers, Don Akaegbu & Company, said the hospital staff exhibited negligence even before the scan, saying they failed to consider Ireti’s special communication needs, which made her unable to express concern or discomfort during the scan.
Further, they alleged the team did not administer a test dose of the contrast dye, a crucial step to check for reactions.
“Ireti was distressed during the scan, and there was no consultant or senior personnel around, except an inexperienced young doctor,” the family’s lawyer said.
The heartbroken family asked their lawyers to issue a pre-action notice to FMC’s chief medical director, detailing alleged “lapses” that led to her death.
Segun Orisajo, the hospital spokesman said, “The hospital management will react appropriately in due course.”
