Sumatra quake: Injured Malaysian student in stable condition

KUALA LUMPUR: A second year medical student at Universitas Andalas, Felicia Francesca Francis Dass, who was injured in the earthquake which hit Padang, West Sumatra, on Wednesday, is reported to be in stable condition at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital (HKL).

She was among the 323 Malaysian students evacuated from Padang Friday morning.

Felicia Francesca, 23, from Penang, was injured on several parts of her body, head of the HKL Emergency and Trauma Department, Prof Datuk Dr Abu Hassan Asaari Abdullah told reporters at the hospital here Friday.

He said Felicia Francesca was given seven stitches on the head for an injury caused by a falling beam.

She also injured her neck, the seventh cervical vertebra and waist bone, he added.

He said a CAT scan was also conducted on Felicia Francesca to ensure that she had no other complications, including internal bleeding.

“She is now in good condition and undergoing complete treatment. There is no internal damage or bleeding. She does not show any impact or effect to the neurological function or any serious form of spinal injuries, which is a very good sign,” he added.

Dr Abu Hassan said that it would take about three to six weeks for Felicia Francesca to recover from her injuries.

“We are also observing her condition to find out whether there is a need for her to have spinal surgery. So far, everything seems alright,” he added. -- Bernama

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