Larnaca, Cyprus. The family of 72-year-old Constantia Nikolaou, who died at Larnaca general hospital in the early hours of January 18, is demanding answers about alleged lack of basic care and contradictory staff information. The health ministry and Okypy ordered an investigation on Thursday.
Arrival and reported delay in examination
Nikolaou was taken by ambulance to the hospital at around 4pm on Saturday, January 17, after falling ill. Her granddaughter told Sigma TV that relatives informed hospital staff on arrival that Nikolaou had tested positive for coronavirus and was feeling increasingly weak.
The family said Nikolaou was placed in an isolation room in the emergency department and remained there for about five hours without being examined. The granddaughter said Nikolaou was alone and without water, and that no one checked whether she needed anything.
Family says repeated calls were made
Relatives said they made repeated phone calls to the hospital before a doctor examined her at around 9 to 9.30pm. The family said the initial assessment found sepsis.
Transfer to infectious disease unit
Nikolaou was then transferred to the infectious disease unit, according to the family.
Family alleges strained conditions at hospital
The family alleged the hospital was in disarray that evening due to a serious shooting incident in Larnaca earlier that day, and that staff were operating under strained conditions.
What information would you like to see included in the findings of the health ministry and Okypy investigation?