Health Ministry launches review after previable fetus incident at New Amsterdam Hospital

See below full statement from the Ministry of Health:

The Ministry of Health is aware of and regrets an unfortunate incident that occurred at the New Amsterdam Hospital involving a patient, Ms Kelisha Pestano, aged 26.

Ms Pestano, who was approximately 24 weeks and 5 days pregnant, presented to the New Amsterdam Hospital on 14 January 2026 at 22:24 hrs with complaints of lower back pain and mild per vaginal bleeding, without uterine contractions. She was assessed and diagnosed as a case of threatened abortion with a previable fetus and was admitted to the ward for ongoing care and management. Ms Pestano was counselled regarding the prognosis and potential outcomes should her condition progress to a spontaneous miscarriage.

During the course of her admission, Ms Pestano subsequently developed uterine contractions and progressed to a spontaneous miscarriage in the early hours of 15 January 2026, resulting in the delivery of a previable fetus.

Based on an initial visual assessment, the fetus was presumed to be deceased. A previable fetus is defined as one that is not yet capable of surviving outside the uterus, even with medical support; therefore, fetal resuscitative efforts are not medically indicated. The fetus was subsequently handed over to relatives. It was later observed by the relatives that the fetus showed signs of life, following which the fetus was returned to the hospital. Supportive care was provided; however, despite these efforts, the fetus was eventually declared deceased.

The Ministry of Health acknowledges the distress caused by this incident and expresses its deep regret for the circumstances surrounding this outcome. The Ministry extends its sincere condolences to Ms Pestano and her family during this difficult time.

The Ministry has initiated a review of the circumstances surrounding this incident to ensure that established clinical protocols were followed and to identify any areas for improvement in patient care and communication. Appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings of this review.

The Ministry of Health remains committed to upholding the highest standards of care and to ensuring compassion, professionalism, and respect in the delivery of health services across Guyana.