MEDFORD, Oregon – A nurse at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Oregon is suspected of tampering with medication, resulting in the deaths of approximately ten patients. The allegations were reported by NBC5, based on information from several anonymous sources. The nurse allegedly substituted medication with tap water as a cover-up for misusing fentanyl, a pain medication.
According to NBC5, the use of non-sterile tap water led to Pseudomonas infections in patients who were injected with the tainted medication. Dr. Robin Miller, host of NBC’s Docs on Call, explained that tap water can cause severe infections such as sepsis and pneumonia, potentially affecting multiple organs. This harmful practice of switching medications, known as “drug diversion,” is reportedly carried out by about 10% of medical professionals, with fentanyl being one of the most commonly diverted drugs.
Police are currently investigating the incident, and no charges have been filed as of now. The Oregonian/OregonLive confirmed that the police inquiry into the drug diversion incident is still in its early stages. Additionally, a spokesperson for the medical center acknowledged reporting the issue to law enforcement, but declined to disclose the number of affected individuals or confirm the number of deaths.
These disturbing allegations raise serious concerns about patient safety and the integrity of the healthcare system. The potential impact of drug diversion on patient outcomes and the public’s trust in medical institutions is significant. As authorities continue their investigation, the focus remains on determining the full extent of the harm caused and holding those responsible accountable.
In summary, the nurse at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Oregon is under investigation for allegedly swapping medication with tap water, resulting in the deaths of approximately ten patients. The hospital’s acknowledgment of the reported issue to law enforcement confirms the gravity of the situation, as authorities work to uncover the full impact of the alleged drug diversion.