​The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of a 36-year-old female patient at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital. The patient had been admitted to the hospital on 21 September 2024 and was receiving care in the hospital’s ward 37. 

On Monday, 23 September 2024, at approximately 13:00, a nurse making her rounds noticed that a bathroom door was locked. After knocking several times without a response, she requested assistance from another nurse. 

The two nurses forcefully opened the door and devastatingly discovered the patient hanging by a cellphone charger cable inside. Immediate efforts to resuscitate her were undertaken, and a doctor was called to the scene, and subsequently certified her dead. 

The hospital staff, who were deeply affected by this traumatic experience, are receiving counseling and support. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been informed and is currently investigating the matter. 

GDoH extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time. The department remains committed to providing compassionate and safe health care and will continue to work toward preventing such incidents from occurring in the future. 

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Issued by the Gauteng Department of Health