A couple in Antigua and Barbuda is seeking legal advice after discovering a needle embedded in their newborn’s foot—more than a day after being discharged from hospital.

The baby, who had been treated for jaundice and dehydration at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre’s neonatal intensive care unit, was sent home earlier this week.

The parents said they initially assumed the infant’s irritability was normal. But 24 hours later, while changing a diaper, they found a needle and applicator still lodged in the baby’s foot—apparently overlooked during discharge.

The couple, who said they kept socks on the baby since leaving hospital, described the oversight as deeply distressing. They hope legal action will help prevent similar incidents.

“We don’t want this to happen to another baby,” they said.