Nigerian doctors under the aegis of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State Branch, have criticised remarks made by two presenters on the TVC Breakfast Show regarding the medical management of snakebite victims, describing the comments as inaccurate and unprofessional.
The association, in a press statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Babajide Saheed, today, expressed sympathy to the bereaved family of the late fast-rising singer, Ifunanya Nwange, affected by the recent snakebite incident, while distancing medical professionals from what it described as misleading public commentary.
According to the NMA, the presenters questioned the use of intravenous fluids during the resuscitation of a snakebite victim, a claim the association said showed a lack of understanding of standard medical practice.
“The comments questioning the use of intravenous fluids during resuscitation were misleading, unprofessional, and demonstrated a lack of understanding of standard medical practice,” the statement read.
The NMA stressed that journalism, as the fourth estate, demands fairness, balance and proper research, especially when addressing sensitive healthcare matters where misinformation could have serious consequences.
It warned that subjecting doctors to public criticism without factual accuracy or expert input amounts to a media trial capable of damaging reputations and weakening public confidence in the health system.
The association also noted that such remarks could have emotional and psychological effects on doctors, patients and their families.
It therefore called on the presenters involved to tender an unreserved public apology to Nigerian doctors for what it described as “misleading, unfair, and unreasonable comments on established medical practices, including the use of intravenous fluids in the resuscitation of snakebite victims.”
The NMA advised aggrieved or bereaved families to seek redress through appropriate channels such as the hospital concerned, relevant professional bodies and statutory regulatory authorities, rather than resorting to public speculation.
It further urged governments at all levels to prioritise healthcare delivery through improved funding, better remuneration for health workers, infrastructural development, provision of modern equipment and sustained investment in medical research.
“A strengthened healthcare system is essential for quality patient care and improved health outcomes,” the statement added.
