Refusal to Measure Saturation of 50% Pneumonia Patient at Armenia Medical Center - Ruben Stepanyan

Surgeon Ruben Stepanyan wrote on his Facebook page:

“Until now, I have tried not to raise all the negative comments about Armenia Medical Center and have defended it in every possible way. However, the refusal to measure the patient’s saturation is unjustifiable in any way.

A friend of mine sought treatment for chest organ conditions at Izmirlian Hospital, left the hospital, and called me on the way. It was verbally stated that he has about 50% pneumonia. To determine the next steps clearly, I asked him to stop by any hospital on the way and measure his saturation. At that moment, Armenia Medical Center was the closest.

Upon entering the reception, the doctor categorically refused to take the measurement. I called personally, introduced who I am and where I work. I requested to measure the saturation because the patient is experiencing shortness of breath, and may need urgent hospitalization. The response I received was, ‘We have one pulse oximeter; we cannot measure the saturation of a patient with bilateral polysymmetric pneumonia.’

It is sad that doctors refuse to measure the saturation of a pneumonia patient, and even sadder that they are unaware of disinfection protocols and that they have only one pulse oximeter. I have nothing more to say. This speaks to the absolute lack of professionalism among the personnel working in the hospital. That’s all.”