SAMUT SAKHON, Thailand – A hospital in Samut Sakhon province has acknowledged mistakenly swapping a Thai and a Myanmar newborn, an error that came to light after the Thai father’s suspicions led to DNA testing, Sep 17.
The mix-up occurred at Krathum Baen Hospital, where both infants were receiving treatment for infections. Hospital staff removed identification bracelets during medical procedures and bathing, leading to the accidental swap.
The error was discovered when the Thai father noticed changes in the baby’s appearance, including hair length and missing eyebrows, during visits to the neonatal intensive care unit. After initial dismissals of his concerns by hospital staff, DNA testing confirmed the infants had been switched.
Dr. Surawit Sakdanuphap, chief of the provincial public health office, along with hospital director Dr. Thammawit Kuakulkiat, publicly admitted the mistake. They attributed it to staff error during routine care procedures.
As compensation, the hospital has offered free medical care for both children until they reach 20 years of age. Each family will also receive 100,000 baht (approximately $3,000) in compensation.
The hospital has established a committee to investigate the incident and implement new safety measures, including increased CCTV coverage and enhanced staff training to prevent future occurrences.
This case has sparked widespread discussion on social media, highlighting concerns about hospital protocols for newborn identification and care. (TNA)
