Tragedy struck a family in Xian, China, when a nanny hired for her expertise in post-partum care accidentally caused the death of their baby on her first day of work. The incident, which unfolded on April 10, shocked many after a video circulated online showing emergency efforts to save the infant in hospital.
The parents, who had sought the nanny through Tian’e Daojia for a monthly salary of 12,000 yuan, were particularly cautious due to their premature baby’s health issues. Despite their concerns, attempts to replace the nanny proved futile, leading to the fatal accident later that day.
During the evening feed, the father noticed the baby’s distress, prompting a rush to the hospital where doctors discovered the infant had aspirated a significant amount of milk into the lungs. Tragically, the child could not be saved, succumbing to what was later confirmed as milk suffocation by authorities.
The grieving parents immediately reported the incident, but legal authorities categorized it as a civil matter rather than a criminal offense. Their attempts to seek compensation from Tian’e Daojia were met with resistance, as the company cited limited liability despite assurances of insurance coverage.
Chen Xiaohua, CEO of Tian’e Daojia, suggested that the baby’s pre-existing health conditions may have exacerbated the situation, emphasizing the need for a thorough police investigation to determine any negligence. Meanwhile, public reaction to the incident has been one of widespread sorrow and anger, with calls for stricter regulations and standards within the profession of post-partum care.
As of July 15, the company stated they are actively engaging with the parents to resolve the matter. The incident has sparked a national debate on the qualifications and oversight needed for those entrusted with newborn care, reflecting broader concerns about childcare standards in China.
