A Virginia hospital closed its neonatal intensive care unit after three premature babies were found with “unexplainable fractures” — more than a year after several newborns suffered similar injuries.
Henrico Doctors Hospital in Richmond temporarily halted all admissions to its neonatal intensive care unit and began an internal investigation after medical officials made the troubling discovery in late November and December.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we are not accepting any additional babies into our neonatal intensive care unit at this time,” the hospital said in a statement on its website, adding that it had informed families, authorities and regulatory bodies of its findings.
“Although fractures sometimes occur in premature babies because they lack full development of fetal bones, we are actively working to determine how these fractures occur.”
The medical center said that the injuries were similar to an accident involving four children last summer, explaining that they were taking immediate steps to enhance safety measures in the hospital ward.
Safety improvements include mandatory training for staff dealing with minors, enhanced screenings, new security, a monitoring system, and live streaming technology that allows parents to watch their children.
Footage from the neonatal intensive care unit has also been provided to the “appropriate authorities,” with health care professionals reviewing hospital surveillance, the medical center said.
“The process is extensive and time-consuming, but they are making steady progress,” the hospital wrote.
“So far during our review of the videos, no misconduct or accidental actions have been found. The safety of our babies in the NICU is our top priority and we are actively working to take additional precautions to prevent any future incidents.
The Virginia Department of Health, along with state police, are investigating the disturbing situation, according to Fox Richmond.
No charges have been filed, Henrico police said.
“Henrico County is prepared to use all available resources to ensure a thorough investigation,” police said in a statement to the outlet.
“Henrico Police are collaborating with Child Protective Services within the Henrico Department of Social Services, Virginia State Police, Virginia Department of Health, and the District Attorney’s Office to ensure all evidence is thoroughly examined.”
