TNR News Network
Kangra:
A serious lapse in professional conduct has come to light at the Regional Hospital in Una, Himachal Pradesh, where two female staff nurses allegedly reported for night duty under the influence of alcohol.
The incident, which occurred on the night of August 5, has sparked widespread concern and led to an official investigation by the state health department.
According to hospital sources, the nurses, assigned to the surgical and medical wards, allegedly consumed alcohol inside the hospital premises from around 10 pm until nearly 2 am. Their behaviour reportedly went unchecked for two consecutive nights, despite visible signs of intoxication. On the night of August 5, one of the nurses began vomiting in the hospital compound, drawing attention to the matter.
This was not the first instance of such misconduct. According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary findings, both nurses had previously been seen drinking and smoking while on duty, leaving patient care in the hands of trainee students. The situation came to a head after one of the trainees filed a formal complaint.
Male visitor called in, trainees left in charge
In a particularly disturbing revelation, it has been reported that on the night of August 4, the two nurses not only drank alcohol during their shift but also invited a male visitor into the hospital premises. While doing so, they allegedly abandoned their responsibilities, leaving patient care entirely to medical students on night duty.
Dr Sanjay Mankotia, Medical Superintendent of the Una Regional Hospital, confirmed that a detailed report had been compiled and submitted to the higher authorities. He said that an internal investigation was currently underway and action would be taken based on the findings. One of the nurses, who was serving on deputation, has already had her deputation cancelled and has been sent back to her original posting.
The incident has raised serious questions about staff supervision and the safety of patients during night shifts at government hospitals. The health department is expected to take stringent action to prevent such occurrences in the future.
