A BARNSLEY mental health nurse has been struck off the medical register after a hearing found he posed a risk to patients – following allegations that he’d spent time at a patient’s home and ‘cuddled’ another on his lap in A and E.
Daniel Hussey, who worked as a child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS) nurse in Barnsley, was subject to the investigation by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
He did not attend the hearing, having been alleged to have committed a number of concerns which the panel found led to ‘serious misconduct’.
In regards to patient A, it is alleged that Hussey travelled alone with them in his personal car and spent time alone with them in their bedroom.
A report states that these action did not relate to clinical care and were therefore deemed inappropriate.
The report stated that these charges were proven.
It said: “In reaching this decision, the panel took into account the patient notes for patient A which show Mr Hussey was alone either in their bedroom or home with patient A on six dates.
“The panel found the evidence about these matters compelling as it came from notes Mr Hussey made himself at the time.
“The panel further noted that when questioned by witness one and in his response to the NMC, Mr Hussey had admitted seeing patient A alone in her bedroom and therefore found the charge proved.”
Another charge related to Hussey cuddling patient B on his lap whilst in A and E – this was also proven.
The report added: “In reaching its decision, the panel gave due consideration to both the written and oral evidence of witness four and the account given by Mr Hussey.
“On the balance of probabilities, it was satisfied that the evidence given by witness four was more credible and that the incident is more likely than not to have taken place, as it seems improbable that the nurse could have mistaken the events she described as those being described by Mr Hussey.”
In its findings, the panel said his behaviour was ‘potentially intrusive and went beyond normal professional boundaries’.
Hussey said he was proud of the work he has been doing with young people.
He added: “I appreciate that at times my approach may appear to be a little unorthodox, however I have never tried to hide this.
“In fact, I am proud of the fact that I have been able to work with so many young people in a way which helped them feel safe, loved and hopeful of a future.”
But the panel agreed that the evidence indicated a pattern of behaviour which had led him to grow into a ‘maverick’.
He was subsequently struck off the medical register.
The report said: “The panel is of the view that in light of the lack of remorse and insight, that it is highly likely the behaviour would be repeated and as a result, Mr Hussey continues to pose a risk to the safety of patients, the reputation of the profession and the public confidence.
“The panel therefore decided that a finding of impairment is necessary on the grounds of public protection and public interest.
“The panel has considered this case very carefully and has decided to make a striking-off order.”
South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust said patient safety was its main priority.
A spokesperson added: “Whenever concerns are raised with us, we investigate thoroughly and take immediate action.
“This includes providing support to anyone who is affected by what has happened.”