A principal certified registered anaesthetist, Ms Harriet Oteng, has been praised for her swift action to save the life of a pregnant trader, who collapsed at the Kasseh Market in the Ada East District.  

The woman, Madam Grace Siawu from Sege, later delivered a healthy baby boy at the Ada East District Hospital following the intervention.  

Ms Oteng, who has 13 years of professional experience, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that she encountered the woman shortly after work and had to administer first aid before rushing her to the hospital. 

 “She collapsed and was sweating profusely, struggling to breathe, and unable to speak,” Ms Oteng said, explaining that after reviewing the patient’s antenatal card and ruling out diabetes, she quickly gave her a soft drink to stabilise her condition. 

 Not fully satisfied with her temporary recovery, the anaesthetist abandoned her shopping agenda, placed the patient in her car, and drove her to the hospital, where she delivered safely on the following day. 

Expressing gratitude after her recovery and delivery, Madam Siawu said, “This is how every health professional should be committed to saving lives, whether on duty or not.” 

Traders and buyers who witnessed the incident also commended Ms Oteng for her selflessness, describing her as “a shining example of dedication beyond the hospital walls.” 

The incident, observers said, highlighted the vital role anaesthetists played in Ghana’s healthcare delivery system and supported calls for greater recognition and career progression within the specialised profession. 

Ms Oteng appealed to the government to provide anaesthetists with opportunities to rise to managerial positions, noting their crucial role in resuscitation, pain management during surgery, and ensuring safe recovery. 

 “An anaesthetist takes full responsibility for the life of a patient on the surgical table, ensuring they return safely to their families, yet we are hardly considered for leadership opportunities in the health system. 

She pleaded that the government would create space for these professionals to advance into managerial positions.