The health of a young girl who suffered a cardiac arrest while receiving stitches in hospital four months ago has worsened, her family revealed on Monday, with civil action possibly to follow against the staff involved.

Lai Sum-yuet, who was four years old at the time but has since turned five, went to Yan Chai Hospital in late May for treatment for a head wound. While getting stitches, her heart stopped beating for 18 minutes.

She remains in a critical condition in intensive care at Princess Margaret Hospital.

Appearing emotional, her father told reporters that the past few months have been difficult for the family.

"I saw my daughter in the hospital day and night, with many tubes attached to her body and having to rely on a ventilator to breathe. It was very painful," he said.

"The attending doctor told me that Sum-yuet's condition is declining every day. It's not ideal."

Lawmaker Joephy Chan, who has been helping the family, called for more details on the incident from the authorities.

“We believe that the accountability of the hospital management should be more transparent. That's one of the follow-ups that we are going to pursue," she said.

The family's solicitor, Lau Kar-wah, said civil action could follow, as well as complaints to the nursing watchdog.

"The evidence to be collected through the criminal investigation would certainly be helpful to any civil claims. What actions could be done were both the civil claim against the Hospital Authority, as well as a formal complaint...to the Nursing Council," he said.

Earlier in the day, two Yan Chai Hospital staff were granted bail after appearing in court accused of ill-treatment or neglect of the girl.

In a statement, the Hospital Authority (HA) said it is inappropriate to make further comments as legal proceedings are ongoing.

The HA added it understands the feelings of the girl's family and attaches great importance to her treatment and follow-up arrangements. "The HA will maintain close liaison with relatives, provide appropriate support and update them on the latest development of the case," it said.
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Last updated: 2024-09-30 HKT 21:10