Ministry of Health extends condolences and orders review following infant’s death

See full statement issued by the Ministry of Health:

The Ministry of Health expresses its deepest condolences to the family of baby Wendy Wharton, who tragically passed away in the early morning hours of October 12, 2025.

The Ministry joins the hospital community in mourning this loss and reaffirms its commitment to a transparent and comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Immediately following the event, the hospital initiated an internal clinical investigation led by the attending medical officers, midwifery, and nursing teams.

The review was conducted under the supervision of the Hospital Quality and Patient Safety Department, in keeping with the Ministry of Health’s established standards for the reporting and assessment of critical incidents.

The investigation confirmed that the infant was born at 38 weeks and 2 days gestation via spontaneous vaginal delivery on October 10, 2025. Apgar scores were recorded at 9, 10, and 10, indicating healthy postnatal adaptation.

The infant remained clinically stable and was discharged in good condition on October 11, 2025, continuing to room-in with her mother.

On October 12, 2025, at approximately 5:34 a.m., the infant was discovered unresponsive. Nursing and medical staff immediately commenced resuscitative efforts, including full advanced neonatal life support, in accordance with established protocols. Oxygen was available and adequately supplied throughout the procedure.

During this period, the hospital experienced a brief power outage; however, the backup generator was activated immediately, and the ongoing resuscitation efforts were not affected in any way. Despite sustained and comprehensive intervention, the infant was pronounced deceased at 7:51 a.m.

A post-mortem examination revealed evidence of bronchoaspiration of gastric contents (material from the stomach that was inhaled into the bronchi and lungs), which may have contributed to the infant’s sudden collapse.

While the internal investigation has been completed, the Ministry of Health has also commissioned an external investigation to ensure an independent and thorough review of all clinical and procedural aspects related to this tragic event.

The Ministry of Health, together with the Diamond Regional Hospital, remains steadfast in its commitment to continuous improvement of healthcare systems and protocols to ensure that all citizens receive the highest quality of care.

Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies remain with the Wharton family during this profoundly difficult time.