World
Doctors save infant mid-flight
The child was suffering from congenital heart disease.
New Delhi: Two doctors on a flight from Ranchi to Delhi came to the rescue of a six-month-old baby suffering from a congenital heart condition.
The swift actions of Dr. Muzamil Feroze from Saddar Hospital in Ranchi and Dr. Nitin Kulkarni, an IAS officer, saved the young child's life.
The baby's parents were en route to Delhi's prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for crucial medical treatment when a distressing situation unfolded mid-flight.
As the plane ascended, the infant began to struggle for breath, sending panic through the worried parents.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, the parents alerted the flight staff, leading to an urgent announcement seeking assistance from any medical professionals among the passengers.
Responding to the call for help, Dr. Muzamil Feroze and Dr. Nitin Kulkarni stepped forward without hesitation.
The doctors swiftly assessed the situation and administered critical care to the baby.
Given the unavailability of pediatric medical equipment, they creatively used an adult oxygen mask to deliver oxygen to the infant.
Additionally, emergency medications, including a theophylline injection, were administered to stabilize the child's condition.
Parents also received a Daxona injection to help manage the crisis.
Describing the challenging moments, Dr. Kulkarni shared, "The child's mother was in tears as her baby struggled to breathe. Dr. Muzamil and I took charge of the child's care. We had to use an adult mask for oxygen, as a pediatric mask or cannula was not available."
The first 15-20 minutes were fraught with anxiety as the doctors worked diligently to assess the child's progress.
However, their efforts soon bore fruit as the baby began to respond positively, much to the relief of the parents.
Upon reviewing the baby's medical records, it was determined that the child was suffering from patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), a congenital heart disease.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the doctors requested a priority landing and full medical attention upon arrival.
The flight landed approximately an hour later, ensuring the child's swift transfer to the care of a medical team.
The remarkable rescue did not go unnoticed by fellow passengers, one of whom expressed their gratitude on social media.
AS Deol, a passenger on the flight, praised the doctors as "angels sent by God" for their valiant efforts in saving the child's life.