Massachusetts Nurse Charged with Tampering Oxy for Dementia Patient

UPDATE: A Massachusetts nurse has been arrested and charged with tampering with oxycodone prescribed to a dementia patient, according to federal authorities. Lori Robertson, 65, was taken into custody this week, and the charges stem from an incident that occurred on March 31, 2023.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for Massachusetts filed the indictment, revealing that Robertson worked at a long-term care facility in Amesbury and had access to opioid medications, including oxycodone. This shocking allegation raises serious concerns about patient safety in healthcare settings.

According to court documents, while caring for a non-verbal hospice patient suffering from dementia, Robertson allegedly tampered with the patient’s oxycodone. Federal officials state that she removed the opioid from its container using a syringe and replaced it with a household cleaner, compromising the medication’s integrity.

The charge of tampering with a consumer product carries severe consequences, with a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years and fines reaching $250,000. This incident has sparked outrage, highlighting the risks faced by vulnerable patients in medical facilities.

“Robertson acted with reckless disregard for the risk that another person would be placed in danger of death and bodily injury,” the indictment states, emphasizing the gravity of her actions.

Robertson was arraigned on Friday, November 24, 2023, in front of Judge Paul Levenson. During her court appearance, she pleaded not guilty to the charges. Federal prosecutors did not seek detention but set strict release conditions, including no drug or alcohol use, no contact with the victim, and prohibiting her from employment that grants access to prescription medications.

The long-term implications of this case could resonate throughout the healthcare community, prompting calls for stricter oversight and safety measures in facilities that care for at-risk patients. The court has scheduled an initial status conference to discuss the case further.

This developing story raises critical questions about the safety of healthcare environments and the need for vigilance in protecting patients from potential harm. As this situation unfolds, the healthcare community and families of patients are urged to remain aware of the implications of such serious allegations.

Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge regarding this alarming case.