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In a shocking turn of events, a Winnipeg family is raising their voices against medical negligence after their grandmother, Kathy Boychuk, suffered severe kidney damage following a CT scan. The 78-year-old underwent the procedure at Grace Hospital, but the aftermath has left her in excruciating pain and fighting for her health.
Medical oversight leads to tragedy
Kathy Boychuk was not informed to stop taking her diabetes medication, metformin, before the CT scan, a critical oversight that has had devastating consequences. Just days after the procedure, she was rushed to the Health Sciences Centre (HSC) where doctors revealed her kidneys were shutting down.
“It’s hell, plain and simple,” Boychuk expressed during a video call from her hospital bed, highlighting the intense suffering she has endured.
Her grandson, Joshua Burmachuk, recounted the emotional turmoil the family faced as they gathered at HSC, witnessing their beloved grandmother in critical condition.
“It broke my heart, seeing her there,” he said, emphasizing the urgency and gravity of the situation. The family alleges that the medical team at Grace Hospital failed to notify Kathy about the necessary precautions regarding her medication, which should have been halted 48 hours before and after the CT scan.
Communication failures and lack of clarity
The family’s frustration is compounded by a letter from Shared Health, which stated that medications could be taken with a few sips of water but lacked clear guidance for diabetic patients. Burmachuk argues that the hospital had been provided with a comprehensive list of Kathy’s medications and medical history, yet the necessary precautions were not communicated effectively.
“They just proceeded with everything,” he lamented, calling for accountability in the healthcare system.
In response to the family’s concerns, a spokesperson for Shared Health expressed regret over Kathy’s experience, urging the family to reach out to their patient relations office.
They emphasized that while metformin and IV contrast are generally safe for patients with normal kidney function, careful decisions must be made for those with existing kidney issues.
A call for awareness and change
As Kathy Boychuk continues her recovery, the family is determined to share their story to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. “It’s absolutely horrible and nobody needs to go through this,” Kathy stated, echoing the sentiments of her family. They hope that by raising awareness, they can encourage better communication and protocols within the medical community.
The Boychuk family’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the importance of patient education and clear communication in healthcare settings. As they navigate this challenging journey, they remain committed to advocating for change, ensuring that no other family has to endure the pain and suffering they have faced.
