An operation theatre at Nishtar Hospital Multan has been sealed following concerns that a suspected HIV-positive patient underwent surgery alongside other general patients.
The hospital administration confirmed that the decision was taken after the patient’s test report returned positive a day after the surgical procedure. As a precautionary measure, the operation theatre was immediately closed for inspection and sterilization protocols.
According to the hospital’s medical superintendent, a total of seven surgeries were performed in the same operation theatre prior to its closure. Authorities have initiated internal reviews to assess procedural compliance and ensure patient safety standards were properly followed.
Medical experts note that hospitals follow strict infection control protocols to prevent cross-contamination in surgical environments. These include sterilization of instruments, use of protective equipment, and screening procedures where necessary. However, any breach or delay in identifying infectious conditions can raise serious concerns regarding operational safety.
The incident has prompted hospital officials to review standard operating procedures related to pre-surgery screening and infection control measures. Such reviews are typically conducted to determine whether additional safeguards or training are required for medical staff.
Healthcare administrators emphasize that modern medical facilities are designed to minimize infection risks, and proper sterilization significantly reduces the likelihood of disease transmission in operation theatres. Nevertheless, suspected exposure incidents are treated with high priority to ensure patient safety.
The case has also drawn attention to broader challenges in Pakistan’s public healthcare system, including high patient loads, limited resources, and the need for improved diagnostic screening before surgical procedures.
Authorities are expected to conduct further investigations to determine whether any procedural lapses occurred and whether additional precautionary measures should be implemented in future surgeries.
