The arrival of a new year is often marked by celebration and anticipation, but for healthcare professionals, it represents a continuation of unwavering commitment. At Tu Du Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, , brought both – the joy of new life and the dedication of a medical team working through the night. As fireworks illuminated the sky, doctors and nurses at Tu Du Hospital welcomed the first newborns of the Lunar New Year, a moment filled with both professional responsibility and profound emotion.
According to Dr. Tran Ngoc Hai, Director of Tu Du Hospital, the nature of obstetrics demands constant readiness. “There are no days off or hours of rest,” he stated, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of childbirth and the need for immediate intervention at any moment. This dedication is not simply a job requirement, but a deeply felt commitment to the health and well-being of mothers and their babies.
The hospital was particularly busy on New Year’s Eve, with nearly 30 pregnant women awaiting delivery. Many had traveled significant distances – some from provinces like Lam Dong, Tay Ninh, Tra Vinh and Ca Mau – specifically to entrust their care to the medical team at Tu Du Hospital. This demonstrates a high level of trust in the hospital’s expertise and resources.
The demands on obstetricians during these peak times are considerable. Working night shifts on New Year’s Eve is inherently stressful, requiring absolute focus on ensuring the safety of both mother and child. Dr. Hai emphasized the unwavering commitment of the team, stating, “We cannot complain about the difficulties; when it’s time to work, you have to go.” This sentiment underscores the professional pride and dedication that drive the medical staff.
The evening wasn’t without its challenges. The hospital received a critical case of placenta previa, transferred from another facility. The surgical team faced a complex and prolonged procedure, lasting seven to eight hours, during which the mother lost over 3,000 ml of blood. The successful outcome – a healthy mother and baby – was a testament to the team’s skill and perseverance. Dr. Hai explained that the team transformed the pressure into “professional pride,” allowing them to overcome the difficulties.
The atmosphere within the delivery room was a blend of urgency and hope. The sounds of hurried footsteps and anxious heartbeats mingled with the distant bursts of New Year’s fireworks. For the doctors and nurses, welcoming the first newborn of the year was more than a professional duty; it was a source of joy and a symbol of new beginnings for the families they served.
While specific details regarding the number of births at Tu Du Hospital on , are still emerging, the hospital’s commitment to providing exceptional care remains constant. Earlier data from , at Tu Du Hospital showed seven newborns – four boys and three girls – were welcomed into the world, with five delivered naturally and two via Cesarean section. Nationally, over 7,000 newborns were welcomed during the Lunar New Year in 2025, highlighting the significance of this time for families across Vietnam.
The story of Tu Du Hospital on New Year’s Eve serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and skill of healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to bring new life into the world, even amidst challenging circumstances. It’s a testament to the unwavering commitment to patient care and the profound joy that comes with witnessing the miracle of birth.
