Families sue Medford hospital after fentanyl mix-up in IV drips

In Medford, Oregon, the families of nine deceased patients and nine survivors have filed a lawsuit against Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. The lawsuit stems from a nurse's alleged actions of replacing fentanyl in intravenous drips with tap water, leading to bacterial infections among patients. The nurse, Dani Marie Schofield, was arrested and charged with multiple counts of second-degree assault after an investigation revealed a significant rise in infections linked to her actions. The hospital is accused of negligence for failing to prevent the theft of fentanyl, which is a potent painkiller used in medical settings. As a result of the nurse's actions, patients experienced unnecessary pain and were exposed to bacteria associated with waterborne transmission. The lawsuit seeks $303 million in damages, citing medical expenses, lost income, and the suffering endured by the plaintiffs. Among the patients affected were individuals with varying medical conditions, including a military veteran and a retiree. Despite the serious nature of the infections, authorities did not charge Schofield with more severe crimes such as murder or manslaughter, as it was deemed challenging to establish a direct link between the infections and the patients' deaths. This incident raises significant concerns about hospital protocols and the safety of patients in medical facilities. The ongoing legal proceedings will likely shed light on the hospital's responsibility and the measures needed to prevent such occurrences in the future.