A nursing professional has been struck off the register after a misconduct panel substantiated serious professional failings. Naomi Butcher, 60, faced a hearing with the Nursing and Midwifery Council concerning her conduct at St Peter and St James Hospice. The proceedings covered incidents alleged to have occurred between 2023 and 2024.
The panel was informed that in December 2023, Butcher allegedly made an inappropriate remark to colleagues about a terminally ill patient. She is said to have stated, “I make a bet with all of you that he will die on Christmas Day.” This comment was highlighted as part of a broader pattern of unprofessional behaviour.
Further incidents included Butcher's refusal to permit a family access to the hospice sanctuary after the passing of their relative. Her comments regarding the family were deemed discriminatory, degrading, and unacceptable by the panel.
Serious clinical errors were also uncovered during the hearing. Butcher administered a 50mg dose of Midazolam to a patient over a 24-hour period, which was ten times the prescribed dosage. She also inaccurately recorded the administration, indicating it was correct, thereby exposing the patient to significant risk.
The hearing also revealed multiple instances of incorrect medication administration and failures to conduct necessary checks. While Butcher acknowledged some of the comments made, she contested others. The panel accepted evidence from a colleague, as Butcher did not attend the hearing.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council determined that Butcher demonstrated "limited insight" into her conduct and failed to grasp the negative impact of her actions on patients and their families. The council concluded that there remained a risk of such behaviour recurring.
Consequently, her removal from the nursing register has been ordered, effective after the standard 28-day period for appeal.
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