Vernon nurse suspended for swiping narcotics from work

A Vernon nurse who swiped narcotics from work and worked while “not fit to practice” has been suspended for three weeks.

According to a March 31 BC College of Nurses and Midwives decision, licensed practical nurse Sarah Nordenlund-Rose withdrew narcotics without documenting it between April and May 2024.

The decision says Nordenlund-Rose, who’s listed as working at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital, also withdrew the narcotics without doing the paperwork, had issues with “wastage, or return to stock” and worked while “not being fit to practice.”

“The appropriate withdrawal and handling of narcotics are important parts of safe nursing practices, as is the accurate documentation of medication administration,” the decision reads. “Nurses are at all times responsible for ensuring that they are fit to work, and for withdrawing from work if they are or become unfit to work.”

The decision is very vague with the precise details of what the licensed practical nurse actually did. The decision is also unusual in the fact that it names Nordenlund-Rose, as nurses who take narcotics from work ordinarily have their names redacted.

Her punishment is also stiffer than what is often handed out to nurses who take narcotics from work.

Recently, a BC nurse who had been caught twice stealing narcotics from work wasn’t suspended but will be monitored for three years. The use was one of a handful displayed in the week for swiping narcotics from work.

Nordenlund-Rose admitted to her behaviour and signed a consent agreement with the nursing regulator.

She was issued a three-week suspension and will have three months of indirect supervision when she returns to work.

“The (College) is satisfied that the terms will address the professional and practice concerns that arose and will protect the public,” the decision reads.