A hospital in eastern China’s Jiangsu province has suspended a midwife after a serious medical accident during childbirth led to injury to a newborn baby. Local health authorities confirmed the incident and said the hospital has taken full responsibility for the case.
The incident happened on December 25 at a county-level public hospital in Jiangsu. The baby was delivered by cesarean section. During the procedure, the midwife accidentally injured the baby while cutting the umbilical cord.
According to the county health commission, the midwife made a major operational mistake. The baby’s left middle finger was partially cut during the process. The injury happened when the newborn’s hand moved suddenly at the moment the umbilical cord was being cut.
Hospital staff noticed the injury immediately after delivery. The hospital quickly arranged for the newborn to be transferred to a higher-level specialist hospital in another city within the province on the same day. Doctors at the specialist hospital carried out emergency surgery that afternoon.
Medical experts successfully reattached the injured finger. The operation was completed without complications. Doctors later confirmed that the baby’s condition was stable following the surgery.
The newborn remained under observation for several days after the operation. On December 31, the baby was discharged from the hospital. Health officials said the baby is now recovering well and will continue follow-up checks as needed.
The county health commission said the midwife involved has been suspended from duty. An internal investigation is underway to review how the error occurred. Authorities said all personnel found responsible will be held accountable under hospital and health system rules.
The hospital has issued multiple apologies to the baby’s family. Officials confirmed that the hospital will cover all medical expenses related to the treatment and recovery. This includes surgery costs, follow-up care, and any future rehabilitation if required.
Health authorities emphasized that the case is being treated with seriousness and transparency. They said patient safety remains a top priority and that such incidents must not happen again.
Medical experts note that while cesarean deliveries are common and generally safe, they require strict attention to procedure and teamwork. Even small errors during surgical steps can result in serious consequences, especially for newborns.
Following the incident, the hospital has begun reviewing its delivery room procedures. Staff training protocols are also being re-evaluated. The hospital plans to strengthen supervision during surgeries and improve risk prevention measures.
Local health officials said they will increase inspections at medical facilities across the region. The goal is to ensure that delivery standards are followed and that medical staff receive proper training and oversight.
The incident has raised public concern about safety during childbirth. Many families expect hospitals to provide the highest level of care during delivery. Health authorities said public trust must be protected through accountability and improvement.
Officials stressed that while accidents can occur in medical settings, systems must be in place to reduce risks. Clear procedures, skilled staff, and emergency response plans are essential to protect patients.
The county health commission said it will release further information if new findings emerge from the investigation. Authorities also encouraged hospitals to use this case as a lesson to improve care quality.
As the baby continues to recover, health officials said the focus remains on the child’s long-term health and well-being. The family has been assured that support will continue throughout the recovery process.
This case highlights the importance of strict medical standards and continuous training in maternity care. Authorities say preventing similar incidents is critical to maintaining confidence in the healthcare system.
