Mistaken Nurse Possibly Gave Mom's Painkiller to Baby: Police

Police are investigating allegations that a Pennsylvania nurse mistakenly gave a newborn pain medication meant for the baby's mother.

The Centre Daily Times reports the mistake occurred at the Mount Nittany Medical Center in July. Neither the nurse nor the mother was identified.

Police say the baby's father told them that the nurse came by the day after the baby was born to give a painkiller to his wife, who had a cesarean section. The nurse allegedly put the medicine in the wrong IV.

Police say the infant immediately tensed up and was later treated at Geisinger Medical Center. They say the baby has recovered.

Search warrants indicate police are considering endangerment charges against the nurse.

A Mount Nittany spokeswoman says the hospital is cooperating with the investigation and reviewing procedures to prevent similar errors in the future.

“We are concerned by any situation that impacts a patient’s safety,” spokeswoman Nichole Monica told the paper.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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