Chesapeake (Va.) Regional Medical Center is notifying more than 300 patients about a potential risk of infection transmission due to a former employee’s improper syringe use.
An investigation by the health system, FDA and other regulatory agencies revealed a former nurse reused needleless syringes while administering IV medications — a violation of hospital policy and regulatory standards. The nurse treated patients in the hospital’s post-anesthesia care unit between July 24, 2023, and Jan. 20, 2025.
Chesapeake Regional said the risk of infection is “extremely low,” and there is no evidence the clinician reused a syringe on an individual patient.
The hospital is working with state health officials to notify 330 at-risk patients and recommend testing for bloodborne pathogens. As of April 17, no cases of patient illness tied to the nurse’s actions have been identified.
“Chesapeake Regional Medical Center is committed to the highest standards of patient safety, transparency, and accountability,” the hospital said in an April 17 news release. “We deeply regret that this incident occurred and are taking every necessary step to support those affected and prevent any recurrence.”
