A major Garda investigation has begun into the activities of a nurse who was employed at Naas General Hospital, Co Kildare, writes Eithne Donnellan, Health Correspondent.
The Irish Times has learned that the nurse, who had been working at the hospital for approximately six months, was recently suspended after allegations were made against her. They relate to the amount of medication that was given to a number of elderly patients.
Last night, the South Western Area Health Board confirmed that an independent inquiry had already been established "to comprehensively examine" the allegations. It said a separate clinical audit would also take place.
The board would not confirm who was leading the independent investigation and would not say if there had been fatalities.
The health board statement said: "The South Western Area Health Board can confirm that it has recently received three allegations against a registered nurse at Naas General Hospital. The nurse had been working at the hospital for approximately six months but was taken off duty as soon as the hospital learned of the allegations.
"The board and Naas General Hospital have reported the allegations to the gardaí who are carrying out an investigation.
"The board has also reported the matter to An Bord Altranais and the Eastern Regional Health Authority.
"An independent inquiry has been established to comprehensively examine the allegations. A separate clinical audit will also take place.
"As there is an ongoing Garda investigation and as due process must be followed, it is not appropriate for the board to comment further at this time. The board will continue to work with the gardaí and all other agencies involved."
Gardaí in Naas confirmed they were investigating the matter but the officer leading the inquiry could not be contacted last night.
Naas General Hospital has 108 beds and its specialties include general medicine, general surgery, geriatrics, orthopaedics, pathology and radiology. It also has an accident and emergency department.