A tragic incident unfolded as a six-year-old boy passed away from a dry cough after reportedly receiving an adrenaline dose intended for a heart attack patient. Benício Xavier de Freitas suffered six consecutive cardiac arrests in a hospital in Manaus, Brazil, following three 3ml doses of intravenous adrenaline administered at 30-minute intervals. The boy’s parents recounted that Benício fell ill immediately after the first dose, expressing discomfort and informing his mother that his heart felt like it was burning.

The nurse who prescribed the intravenous adrenaline has been suspended pending an investigation into the incident. Benício’s father expressed disbelief at the error, emphasizing that the dosage was clearly indicated and excessive for his son’s condition of a dry cough. The family shared how Benício’s health deteriorated rapidly after receiving the doses, with his oxygen levels dropping significantly and ultimately succumbing to his sixth cardiac arrest despite medical efforts.

An inquiry has been initiated at the hospital, with authorities conducting investigations into the matter. Benício’s father, grieving the loss of their only child, called for justice and prevention of similar incidents in the future to spare other families from such immense pain. Meanwhile, a separate case of medical negligence resulting in a new mother’s death shortly after childbirth has raised concerns about the quality of care provided by healthcare professionals.

The hospital’s internal probe, along with the involvement of law enforcement and medical authorities, underscores the seriousness of the situation. The family’s plea for accountability and prevention of such tragedies highlights the need for stringent measures to avoid similar medical errors in the future.