Nurse who removed painkillers for own use found guilty of professional misconduct – The Irish Times
A nurse in Dublin, Ireland, has been found guilty of professional misconduct after admitting to removing prescription painkillers from a care facility for personal use. The case, heard by a fitness-to-practise committee, highlights the potential for breaches of trust within healthcare settings and the serious consequences for those who compromise patient safety.
Details of the Case
Andrei Pislaru, 33, was employed as a staff nurse at Marymount Care Centre in Lucan, Co. Dublin, when the incidents occurred between May 30th and June 1st, 2024. He allegedly removed Solpadol tablets – a strong painkiller – intended for a resident, replacing them with paracetamol. On four occasions, the 9am and 10pm sachets on May 30th, the 9am sachet on May 31st and the 9am sachet on June 1st, 2024 were tampered with, showing evidence of being cut and resealed with sellotape.
Additional Allegations
The inquiry also revealed allegations that Mr. Pislaru requested seven Solpadeine tablets on or around May 31st, 2024, falsely stating they were for a different resident. CCTV footage confirmed he did not administer these tablets to the intended patient. He subsequently admitted to these actions during the investigation process with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI).
Consequences and Context
Mr. Pislaru’s actions led to his immediate termination from Marymount Care Centre on June 21st, 2024, for gross misconduct. Fergus McNulty, director and proprietor, expressed deep sadness but stated dismissal was the only option. The committee found Mr. Pislaru guilty of breaches relating to trust, professional relationships, and accountability.
Mr. Pislaru explained that he was experiencing severe back pain and his own doctor wouldn’t prescribe him medication. He stated his actions were a “split decision” driven by a desire to alleviate his pain and avoid potential repercussions from absenteeism, and denied any issue of addiction. He has since taken a non-nursing role.
Possible Next Steps
The NMBI committee is currently considering the appropriate sanction for Mr. Pislaru. A censure is being recommended by the solicitor for the chief executive of the NMBI, along with a requirement for ethics training should he seek to return to nursing. The committee’s recommendation will be forwarded to the NMBI council for a final decision. It is possible that further disciplinary action could be taken, impacting his ability to practice as a nurse in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What medication was Mr. Pislaru accused of taking?
Mr. Pislaru was accused of taking Solpadol tablets, a prescription-only painkiller, and requesting Solpadeine tablets, indicating they were for residents when they were for his own use.
What was the outcome of the investigation at Marymount Care Centre?
The investigation at Marymount Care Centre resulted in Mr. Pislaru’s termination of employment for gross misconduct, effective June 21st, 2024.
Did Mr. Pislaru cooperate with the investigation?
Initially, Mr. Pislaru did not admit to his conduct during the first meeting of the investigation process at Marymount. However, he subsequently made admissions and cooperated with the NMBI fitness-to-practise process.
Given the potential for abuse and the critical need for trust in healthcare, how can facilities better safeguard medication and support the well-being of their staff?