A nurse at the Royal Sussex County Hospital has been suspended following allegations that she was caught sleeping during her shift, sparking concerns over patient safety and staffing pressures within the NHS.
The incident, which was reported to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), has prompted an investigation into professional conduct. The nurse in question is accused of breaching duty-of-care protocols, with witnesses claiming she was unresponsive while on duty.
Hospital authorities have confirmed that the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness. "Patient welfare is our top priority, and any behaviour that compromises this will be addressed rigorously," a spokesperson stated.
This case highlights broader challenges faced by the NHS, including staff fatigue and under-resourcing. Healthcare unions have long warned that overworked employees are at higher risk of lapses in concentration, which can jeopardise patient care.
The NMC will now determine whether further disciplinary action is required, including potential removal from the professional register.
