Probe ordered after expired IV fluid allegedly administered at Pulwama Hospital

Pulwama, Oct 5: Authorities in Pulwama district have ordered an inquiry after attendants alleged that a patient at District Hospital Pulwama was administered an expired intravenous fluid on Saturday.

A video circulating on social media showed a female patient lying on a hospital bed with a dextrose saline (DNS) bottle attached, displaying an expiry date of May 2025. The clip sparked outrage among locals and raised concerns over hospital safety standards. In the footage, the patient’s attendant is heard saying, “We are at Pulwama hospital. They put up an expired saline bottle and the patient almost died as soon as it was administered.”

Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr Basharat Qayoom, told Greater Kashmir that he had directed the Medical Superintendent to conduct a probe into the incident.

Hospital authorities said the expired bottle was immediately removed once the matter was noticed and confirmed that the patient’s condition was stable. However, the patient’s attendants accused staff of negligence.

The episode has caused widespread concern in Pulwama, with residents and civil society groups demanding stricter monitoring of drug stocks and supplies in government hospitals.

“It is shocking that expired medicines are being used on patients. Strict action must be taken,” said a group of concerned citizens. Officials confirmed that the inquiry would be completed shortly.