A registered nurse from northern BC has been suspended for two months for reportedly breaching his “interim undertaking,” according to a recent decision by the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM).
A consent agreement between Robbert Harris of Prince George and the BCCNM was published on March 22 and details the disciplinary actions related to issues that happened between July and November 2022.
The terms agreed upon address practice issues relating to “knowledge-based practice, inadequate documentation, unsafe medication and blood product administration, communication of patient detail, and professional accountability,” says the BCCNM.
The two month suspension, which Harris agreed to voluntarily, is the result of non-adherence to standards of documentation and safe medication administration.
According to agreement, the two separate occasions involved Harris allegedly administered IV medication and a blood product without the required supervision.
Harris also agreed to a 24-month limit on practicing in high-acuity or critical care environments; a 12-month limit on being the sole practicing registered nurse in charge or providing oversight to students and new learners; and a 6-month limit on assuming in-charge duties.
An inquiry committee has ordered Harris to take remedial education in medication administration, documentation, ethics, communication and critical thinking.
Harris also agreed to partake in a “robust” lab-based orientation and to have direct supervision over 144 hours of his practice.
Finally, he will be required to develop a learning plan that will be shared with his employer and the BCCNM.
The inquiry committee was satisfied with the terms and conditions and believes these steps will protect the public from similar incidents in the future.
