A 64-year-old man, Abhiman Girdhar Tayade, suffering from diabetes, jaundice, and other serious health issues, was mistakenly declared dead by a doctor at Shivneri Private Hospital in Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra, after he was rushed there unconscious by his family on June 12.
Moments before his funeral preparations began, family members noticed signs of life, and Tayade was taken to another hospital, where he regained consciousness within half an hour. The doctor who issued the death certificate later admitted his error, citing background noise from construction as a factor. The family has demanded action against the hospital for alleged medical negligence.
A Miraculous Return from the Brink: Family’s Shock and Relief
Abhiman Girdhar Tayade, a resident of Ulhasnagar, collapsed at home on June 12 and was quickly taken by his son in an auto-rickshaw to Shivneri Private Hospital. Dr Prabhu Ahuja, a senior surgeon, examined Tayade in the auto-rickshaw as he could not be shifted to the OPD. Finding no pulse and observing foaming at the mouth, Dr Ahuja declared Tayade dead and issued a death certificate at the family’s request.
The family returned home and began preparations for the funeral, but soon noticed abdominal movement and a heartbeat. “We were shocked and relieved at the same time,” said a family member. Tayade was immediately rushed to Criticare Hospital in Ulhasnagar, where he was admitted to the ICU and regained consciousness within 30 minutes.
Hospital’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
Dr Prabhu Ahuja acknowledged his error, attributing it to the ongoing road construction noise outside the hospital, which he said made it challenging to accurately assess the patient’s heartbeat and breathing. He mentioned that he had recommended the family seek care at a hospital equipped with a ventilator but was unaware that the patient would later show signs of life.
Meanwhile, the family has strongly criticised the hospital for what they perceive as medical negligence. They recounted how, after being told their father had died, they observed clear signs of life and rushed him to Criticare Hospital, where medical staff confirmed he was alive and treated him; he regained consciousness shortly after admission.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we recognise both the trauma endured by the family and the importance of accountability in healthcare.
This incident highlights the need for stricter protocols and thorough medical assessments before declaring a patient deceased, especially in emergency situations. While we celebrate the miraculous turn of events, we urge authorities to ensure such errors do not recur.
