Guyana’s Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has launched a full internal investigation following the death of a female patient on January 18.

The patient, identified in local media as Marissa Eastman, 22, of La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, Region Three, was six months pregnant and allegedly jumped from the third floor of a ward at GPHC.

In a statement, GPHC said its assessment will include a review of existing protocols related to patient observation and mental health monitoring, including suicide watch policies, to identify areas for strengthening patient safety.

Eastman was admitted to the Emergency Department on January 17 with complaints of headaches and “abnormal behaviour.”

She was admitted for further evaluation and management.

After a review by the Internal Medicine team, Eastman was referred for psychiatric assessment due to observed behavioural concerns. 

“Psychiatric services were attended, and the patient was assessed and managed accordingly. At the time of assessment, no suicidal ideation or psychotic symptoms were identified,” the hospital said.

Shortly before 7pm on January 18, GPHC said it was alerted that Eastman had allegedly jumped through a window on the Female Medical Ward. 

“Hospital personnel responded immediately, but the patient was pronounced dead at the scene,” the statement added.

GPHC said it has met with Eastman’s family and has offered psychosocial and psychiatric support services to them and staff affected by the incident.