Inquiry Reviews Nurse’s Alleged Misuse of Prescription Painkillers

An inquiry conducted by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) is examining allegations against a nurse accused of improperly accessing and using prescription medications, including a controlled substance. The inquiry, which concluded on Friday, focused on events alleged to have occurred on October 14 and 15, 2020, at a private general hospital.

The nurse allegedly accessed OxyNorm, a painkiller containing Oxycodone, without a valid prescription. In addition to this controlled drug, the inquiry heard claims that she took other medications not prescribed for her and intended for her personal use. Reports suggest that she may have self-administered some of these medications.

A prohibition order prevented the identification of the nurse, committee members, legal representatives, and witnesses during the proceedings. The nurse attended the online hearing without legal representation and acknowledged the allegations against her. She admitted that her actions constituted professional misconduct and violated the nursing code of conduct.

Testimonies were provided by several key figures, including the director of nursing, the assistant director of nursing, the head of human resources, and a chief pharmacist. The evidence presented was accepted by both parties involved.

The legal assessor advised the committee that, while many facts were agreed upon, they still needed to evaluate the evidence critically. He emphasized the necessity for a clinical approach, free from bias, particularly regarding the nurse’s lack of legal representation. The committee was tasked with determining whether the nurse had a “relevant medical disability,” which could impair her ability to practice. Such a disability may include addiction to substances, including alcohol or drugs.

In considering potential sanctions, the legal assessor highlighted that any penalties must be proportional to the committee’s findings. He noted that aggravating and mitigating factors should be taken into account, as well as the context of the case. A previous submission from the barrister for the NMBI chief executive described the nurse’s behavior as “serious” and potentially dishonest. However, it was suggested that a mitigating factor could be the restrictions already imposed on her ability to practice for an extended period.

As the inquiry concluded, the committee chair indicated that the findings would be announced at a later date. The case has drawn attention to the critical issues surrounding drug use and professional conduct within the healthcare sector, underscoring the need for stringent oversight in safeguarding patient safety and maintaining professional standards.