A serious medical lapse was reported at Rawalpindi’s Holy Family Hospital after doctors issued a death certificate for a newborn baby who was still alive.
According to the parents, the baby was born a day earlier in critical condition. The infant was under medical observation due to severe health complications. Doctors later informed the family that the baby had died. A death certificate was issued soon after.
Hospital records stated that the baby’s body had been handed over to the parents. However, the situation changed dramatically when the family noticed signs of life. The newborn was seen breathing faintly while an oxygen mask was still attached.
The parents immediately alerted hospital staff. Medical personnel quickly confirmed that the baby was alive. The newborn was then shifted to a ventilator for emergency treatment. Doctors continued monitoring the child’s condition.
Hospital management at Rawalpindi’s Holy Family Hospital later explained that the case appeared to involve Lazarus syndrome. This is a rare medical condition. In such cases, breathing or circulation becomes extremely weak. It may stop briefly and restart on its own.
Doctors said this condition can create the false impression of death. Extremely faint breathing or pulse can be hard to detect. This can lead to serious errors during medical assessments.
Officials explained that Lazarus syndrome may occur due to delayed effects of resuscitation medicines. It can also happen when pressure inside the chest changes after ventilation stops. These changes may suddenly restore blood flow.
In some cases, doctors believe the patient may never have fully lost vital signs. Instead, the signs were too weak to be detected at the time.
The administration of Rawalpindi’s Holy Family Hospital has taken notice of the incident. An inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The committee will review medical procedures and staff actions.
Hospital officials stated that strict action will be taken if negligence is proven. Anyone responsible for issuing the death certificate prematurely will face disciplinary measures.
The incident has raised serious concerns about patient safety and medical verification procedures. Authorities have assured the public that steps will be taken to prevent similar cases in the future.
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The current condition of the newborn has not been officially shared. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected once the inquiry is completed.
