Nurse Convicted Of Drug Dealing Is Suspended For One Year, UK

Main Category: Nursing / Midwifery
Also Included In: Medical Malpractice / Litigation
Article Date: 21 Apr 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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A nurse who was convicted of conspiracy to supply a controlled class A drug was suspended for one year at a Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) hearing in central London on Thursday 17th April.

Angela Mary Densham, 47, was given the suspension order after being convicted of conspiracy to supply the controlled class A drug at Exeter Crown Court in 2006. She was sentenced to carry out 120 hours unpaid work.

In making its decision, the independent NMC panel was mindful that nurses and midwives must act in such a way that justifies the trust and confidence the public have in them. Nurses and midwives must also adhere to the laws of the country in which they are practicing and uphold the reputation of their professions.

The panel did consider that this was Densham's first offence and that it was an isolated incident although it was deliberate.

It also heard that Densham acted out of character and was under some pressure when she carried out the offence.

Densham had also expressed regret for her conduct and the effect that it might have on the reputation of her profession.

Densham's offence was very serious, according to the panel, but in light of her previous good character and other mitigating factors, it was decided that a suspension order was the most appropriate sanction.

NMC spokesman, Colin Joseph, said: "In reaching its decision, the panel has used its professional judgement and has considered the nature of the conviction.

"Public confidence in the profession must be and be seen to be maintained."

The Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) is the UK regulator for two professions, nursing and midwifery. The primary purpose of the NMC is protection of the public. It does this through maintaining a register of all nurses, midwives and specialist community public health nurses eligible to practice within the UK and by setting standards for their education, training and conduct. Currently the number of registrants exceeds 674,000. The Nursing and Midwifery Order 2001 (The Order), sets out the NMC's role and responsibilities.

Nursing & Midwifery Council