Doctors at the Safdarjung Hospital here on Tuesday said that the condition of the 23-year-old gang-rape victim had improved slightly. However, “she continues to be on the ventilator and is still very critical.”
“Her vital parameters have registered a marginal improvement, which is the only positive response so far. The patient, however, is psychologically stable, conscious and communicative,” general surgeon Sunil Jain said.
The patient’s liver function was compromised and she had high-grade fever, he said, adding: “The patient’s platelet count has improved after she was administered blood, platelets and plasma. The internal bleeding has been controlled to a considerable extent while increase in the level of bilirubin continues to be a matter of serious concern.”
The doctor noted that real improvement would happen only when the body starts producing its own blood platelets and her vitals return to normal. Doctors are also concerned about sepsis infection in the blood which can cause organ failure and death. “Examination of blood cultures have established that treatment being given to the patient for sepsis is advancing on the right track.”
Dr. Jain said the patient continued to be on ventilator support though it was reduced marginally.
The patient and her parents were given psychiatric counselling on Tuesday morning. “Despite her fragile body condition, the girl is very positive about her future. She has the fighting spirit. She is coping well. Her family members are aware of the medical risks and also seem to be keen to help their daughter pull through the ordeal,”Dr. Jain said.