- Anaesthetist Harriet Oteng saved a pregnant woman who collapsed at a market
- Patient, Grace Siawu, later gave birth to a healthy baby boy
- Oteng administered first aid and drove the woman to hospital herself
Ms. Harriet Oteng, a Principal Certified Registered Anaesthetist, has been widely praised for her swift and selfless actions that helped save the life of a pregnant trader who collapsed at Kasseh Market in the Ada East District.
The woman, identified as Madam Grace Siawu from Sege, later gave birth to a healthy baby boy at the Ada East District Hospital following Ms. Oteng’s timely intervention.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Ms. Oteng, who has 13 years of professional experience, said she encountered the distressed woman shortly after finishing work. Upon finding her collapsed, sweating heavily, and unable to breathe or speak, Ms. Oteng immediately assessed her condition.
After reviewing the woman’s antenatal record and ruling out diabetes, she gave her a soft drink to help stabilize her. However, unsatisfied with her temporary improvement, Ms. Oteng abandoned her shopping plans, placed the woman in her own vehicle, and drove her directly to the hospital. Madam Siawu delivered safely the next day.
Grateful for the intervention, Madam Siawu said, “This is how every health professional should behave—committed to saving lives, whether on duty or not.”
Traders and eyewitnesses at the market also lauded Ms. Oteng’s quick response and dedication, calling her “a shining example of compassion and commitment beyond the hospital walls.”
The incident has drawn attention to the crucial role anaesthetists play in Ghana’s healthcare system. It also reignited discussions around the need for improved recognition and career advancement for professionals in the field.
Ms. Oteng called on the government to create more leadership opportunities for anaesthetists, noting their vital roles in resuscitation, pain management, and patient safety during and after surgery.
“An anaesthetist bears full responsibility for the life of a patient during surgery, ensuring they return safely to their families—yet we are often overlooked for leadership roles in the health sector,” she said.
