A 33-year-old male patient has died after falling from the seventh floor of the Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital in Bloemfontein.

According to the Free State Department of Health spokesperson, Mondli Mvambi, the incident occurred on Friday at about 03:30.

“A member of the security services reported to the after-hours office that a male patient was lying on the floor in a pool of blood in the corridor leading to the admissions office.”

He explains the after-hour matrons responded immediately to the scene and notified the head nurse and the CEO. The police were informed after confirming the identity of the patient.  The police arrived followed by the Criminal Investigation Detective and Forensics Team.

Mvambi says that the patient was a burns transfer from Dr. J.S Moroka District Hospital. His condition was assessed at Dr. J.S Moroka Hospital and was deemed to be needing the care and attention of Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital due to inhalation and the physical location of the burns. The patient had sustained major burns to his face, neck, right shoulder and left hand.

According to the spokesperson, the patient was never confused at any point and did not exhibit any signs of alcohol or substance withdrawal. He remained fully conscious and interactive with ward staff. No suicidal ideation and no psychosis is suspected.

A meeting was held with the family to inform them of the incident and they have been offered psychosocial support.

An independent investigation is currently underway by the police and forensic teams.