The nurse who it is alleged to have acted unprofessionally while tending to a pregnant Jost Van Dyke mother is on leave, according to Director of the Health Services Authourity, Dr. Ronald Georges.

He also confirmed that an investigation has since been launched into the incident which has invoked much public anger and debate.

Unable to disclose any further details, Dr. Georges said that the nurse will be off for about six weeks. In the meantime, her replacement has already been active in the community.

Angelica Callwood, on June 27, approached the Standpoint to tell her story of having to carry her dead six months and three weeks baby daughter in a black plastic bag after she had a miscarriage.   

She also recalled having her case not being treated as an emergency and was made to journey with the plastic bag from Jost Van Dyke to West End by boat and endure a one hour wait for an ambulance at the terminal, which never showed up.

Although the identity of the nurse will not be revealed, her alleged unprofessional conduct came under scrutiny when she attended to 21-year-old Angelica on June 20, at her home.

Angelica in relating her story said that the Nurse’s alleged callous manner in carrying out her duties has left emotional and psychological scars. Prior to the publication of the article on July 9, the StandPoint made several attempts to speak with the nurse, who refused to comment on the allegations, but referred any questions to Dr. Georges. 

Since the publication of the story, the opinions expressed by the public have been extremely harsh over the nurse’s alleged actions and the loopholes in the health sector in general.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Dancia Penn-Sallah, had issued a statement that extended condolences to Angelica and her family and had promised that an investigation will be conducted.

Dr. Georges also revealed to the Standpoint that he made a visit to Angelica and her family last Friday, and was able to sit down with her to have a holistic picture of what had happened that fateful day at her home. He also visited the Clinic and reviewed the equipment and supplies.

Commenting on his meeting with Angelica, Dr. Georges divulged, “She was very open and honest, and she outlined what were her main concerns and what help she would need.”

Dr. Georges’ pointed out that Angelica will receive counseling and support through the public health system.

When Angelica was contacted, she acknowledged Dr. Georges’ visit and noted that today (Wednesday), two doctors will be visiting her to begin her counseling sessions.

Additionally, she said some family members are encouraging her to take legal actions, but admitted no decision has been made concerning that suggestion. 

She also reiterated the point that her reason for coming forward with the story was to point out that ‘all is not dandy in the health sector.’  The manner in which the Doctors and Nurses and the Pebbles Hospital treated the young mother came under scrutiny as well as, as one Doctor reportedly told the emotional young woman that she should stop crying over the loss of her baby since she is young enough to have others. 

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