Nurse Struck Off for Inappropriate Restraint of Patient
A nurse at Ty Cwm Rhondda mental health unit in Ystrad has been permanently removed from the nursing register for his actions towards a patient. The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) committee found Paul Williams guilty of grabbing a patient’s throat and using an inappropriate restraint on the individual. This incident occurred at the low secure mental health unit, where Williams also failed to disclose a previous assault conviction in Spain to his employer.
During the disciplinary hearing, it was revealed that Williams not only grabbed the patient’s throat but also mimicked the patient’s distress by making a headbutting motion and encouraging the patient to escalate the situation. The panel heard that Williams even went as far as holding onto the patient’s head or neck in an inappropriate manner. These actions were deemed harmful and unnecessary by the committee.
The distressing incident was witnessed by a healthcare worker at the unit, who testified that Williams forced the patient’s head downward towards his chest. The ward manager further clarified that there are no safe restraint techniques that involve holding a patient’s head or neck. Williams’ behaviour of goading and mocking the patient in distress caused additional harm and distress to the individual.
Patient A, as identified in the statement, reported that Williams had grabbed his throat during the incident. The committee found all allegations against Williams to be true, including his failure to disclose his assault conviction in Spain to his employer and the NMC, as required. The nurse’s conduct was described as dishonest and falling significantly short of professional standards.
After the incident in July 2022, Williams went on sick leave, was suspended in August 2022, and subsequently dismissed in September 2022. The matter was then referred to the NMC for further investigation. The committee’s decision to strike off Williams from the nursing register was based on his dishonest conduct and misconduct.
The NMC imposed an 18-month suspension order, allowing Williams the opportunity to appeal the decision. If no appeal is made, the interim suspension order will be replaced by a permanent striking off order. The committee emphasised that Williams’ actions seriously undermined the public’s trust in the nursing profession.
In conclusion, the NMC’s decision to strike off Williams serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding professional standards and accountability in the healthcare sector. The safety and well-being of patients should always be the top priority for healthcare professionals, and any misconduct or dishonesty cannot be tolerated.
Footer: This article originally appeared on Wales Online and has been adapted for clarity and conciseness.