A Virginia hospital has closed its neonatal intensive care unit after three premature babies were found with “unexplained fractures.” It has been more than a year since several newborns suffered similar injuries.
Dr. Henrico Hospital in Richmond suspended all NICU admissions and launched an internal investigation after medical personnel made the disturbing revelations in late November and December.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we will not be admitting any additional babies to the NICU at this time,” the hospital said. stated in a statement It added on its website that it had notified families, authorities and regulators of its findings.
“Fractures can occur in preterm infants because the fetal bones are not fully developed, and we are actively working to understand how these fractures occur. Masu.”
The medical center said the injuries had similarities to an incident involving four infants last summer, and it was taking immediate steps to strengthen safety measures in the hospital wing.
Safety improvements include mandatory training for staff working with minors, sophisticated testing, new security, supervisory systems, and live-streaming technology that allows parents to observe their babies.
The medical center said footage from the NICU will also be provided to “appropriate authorities” and medical experts will review monitoring of the hospital.
“This process is thorough and time-consuming, but we are making steady progress,” the hospital wrote.
“We have reviewed the video so far and have found no illegal or accidental activity. The safety of babies in the NICU is our top priority and we will pursue additional precautions to prevent future incidents.” We are actively working towards this goal.”
The Virginia Department of Health is also investigating the disturbing situation, along with state police. According to Fox Richmond.
Henrico police said no charges have been filed.
“Henrico County stands ready to utilize all available resources to ensure a thorough investigation,” police said in a statement to the media.
“The Henrico Police Department is working with the Division of Child Protective Services within the Henrico Department of Social Services, the Virginia State Police, the Virginia Department of Health, and the Attorney General's Office to ensure that all evidence is thoroughly investigated.”
