On 21/4, Doctor of Medicine level two Cao Hoai Tuan Anh, Deputy Director of Nhan Dan 115 Hospital, announced the successful treatment of two of four victims from a boarding house fire in Tan Thoi Hiep ward. The couple, aged 25, were admitted nine days prior. Another victim with mild smoke inhalation was discharged, while a 29-year-old male patient with 36% second-degree burns was transferred to Cho Ray Hospital.
Upon arrival at Nhan Dan 115 Hospital, the couple was covered in soot, with abrasions on their limbs. They experienced rapidly worsening shortness of breath, a sore throat, and coughed up black phlegm. Tests revealed severe lung damage, altered consciousness, acute respiratory failure, grade three tracheal burns, and multi-organ failure.
The treatment team provided mechanical ventilation, circulatory support, nebulized bronchodilators, and anti-inflammatory drugs, following the smoke inhalation protocol. Given the significant amount of ash and dust inhaled, the couple faced a high risk of airway damage and lasting complications. Doctors performed flexible bronchoscopy and bronchial lavage to address these issues.
The airway lavage procedure commenced on the first day of admission and continued for several days. This method directly removed soot, secretions, and irritants, effectively reducing inflammation and promoting rapid recovery of respiratory function.
After eight days of intensive care, the couple, who had been in a coma, on mechanical ventilation, and receiving multi-organ support, recovered sufficiently to breathe, eat, and function independently. They were subsequently discharged. Their one-year-old son, who was treated at Nhi Dong 1 Hospital for respiratory damage from smoke inhalation, is also now stable.
Smoke inhalation is the primary cause of fire-related fatalities, often more lethal than thermal burns. While it can be fatal within minutes, timely medical intervention offers a chance for survival.
Doctors emphasize the importance of remaining calm during a fire, quickly moving to a clear, open area away from the blaze, and immediately contacting emergency services. They also advise seeking medical attention for any unusual respiratory symptoms, even if feeling normal, as dangerous signs include: cyanosis, extreme fatigue, coughing black phlegm, stridor, wheezing, dizziness, or lethargy.
The fire erupted around 3 AM on 12/4 at a 100 m² tube-house style boarding house on Nguyen Thi Thoi Street in Tan Thoi Hiep ward. The building housed 12 residents, primarily students and freelancers. The incident resulted in two fatalities, five injuries, and significant property damage, with the cause currently under investigation.
Le Phuong
