Confused after surgery? Patient puts fire in clinic

Confused patient puts fire in clinic after OP

A patient has set fire to the Municipal Hospital in Karlsruhe after a major operation. It was unclear whether the man was confused after the operation or whether he was mentally ill. He was reported for arson. Two caregivers suffered smoke poisoning.

Patient puts fire in clinic

A 77-year-old patient set fire to the Municipal Hospital on Sunday morning. According to the dpa news agency, the police said Monday that the man had been in the hospital for several days after a major operation. The patient could get up and move freely. So far it has remained unclear whether the man was confused after the operation or whether he was mentally ill. The fire was reported to have broken out in the urological clinic after the man had lit paper towels and a cleaning cart.

Caregivers suffered smoke poisoning

According to the fire department, two caregivers suffered slight smoke poisoning when they wanted to extinguish the fire. Such poisonings include headaches, dizziness, sweating and drowsiness. It becomes dangerous if those affected become unconscious and no persons are present who can help. It is said that three patients on the affected floor were taken to safety because of heavy smoke. The property damage is about 120,000 euros. The patient has been reported for arson. (Ad)

Image: Michael Bührke