Tauranga Hospital has launched an internal investigation after a nurse was arrested for stealing 120 vials of a potent drug linked to date-rape cases overseas.
Dan Erik Hansson, 40, of Mt Maunganui, was arrested on Thursday and appeared in Tauranga District Court last week on one charge of theft.
The drug - Fentanyl - can be used recreationally.
Police allege Hansson stole the vials of diluted Fentanyl from a hospital safe on 40 to 50 occasions from March to October this year.
The alleged thefts occurred just months after the hospital changed its security provider because of thefts involving patients and staff.
Bay of Plenty District Health Board chief operating officer Graham Dyer said an internal investigation was launched after Hansson was arrested.
He would not comment on the specifics of the investigation but said the hospital still had an "employment issue" to deal with in relation to the case.
Mr Dyer said he was satisfied that the hospital's robust monitoring systems had eventually led to the arrest.
"Our systems are designed primarily to ensure patient safety and to avoid errors when dispensing drugs.
"However, it's the same systems that have led to the detection of irregularities within the dispensing system and ultimately the arrest of a staff member for theft," Mr Dyer said.
New Zealand Nurses Organisation organiser Paul McGee said it was rare for a nurse to face such serious allegations.
Depending on the outcome of the criminal case, the organisation would also carry out its own investigation, he said.
It is understood Hansson has been a nurse at the hospital for one year and a registered nurse since 1998.
Hansson will reappear in court on October 19.
- BAY OF PLENTY TIMES
Nurse arrested over theft of 'date-rape' drug
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