A Gold River woman alleges she was given 200 times more than a normal dose of fentanyl at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, according to a statement of claim filed in B.C. Supreme Court.
In the claim, filed in Vancouver on Feb. 7 against Vancouver Island Health Authority, Sandra Louise Vaughn said she went to the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital’s pain clinic on March 4, 2021.
While there, she alleges, she was given the painkiller, causing her to overdose.
She alleges the health authority has a duty of care to her to provide reasonable care with diligence and competence.
Vaughn alleges a breach of contract or negligence that led to the overdose and a head injury sustained when she was rendered unconscious and fell. She also alleges cognitive and balance problems as a result of the incident.
She is alleging pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of income past and future and loss of pension benefits and entitlement.
Vaughn further alleges multiple failures at the hospital in care records, staff consultation, training and supervision of staff and continued employment of staff who were inadequately trained.
“The defendant is vicariously liable for the acts and omissions of its employees and agents,” the claim said.
Island Health told Glacier Media it could not comment as the case is before the courts.
