A Pitt Meadows nurse faced the complaints and discipline process from the BC College of Nurses and Midwives over verbal exchanges with patients, and intimidating a witness during the investigation.
Deborah Leitch, a licenced practical nurse, had the complaint resolved through a consent agreement, which was made public on May 16.
According to the notice, Leitch was found by an inquiry panel to have been “engaging in verbal exchanges with vulnerable residents in a manner that escalated their responsive behaviours and was contrary to what was directed in their care plans.”
She was also found to have breached confidentiality requirements during the nursing college’s investigation, by “contacting and intimidating a witness,” and distributing a confidential document.
The practice issues arose between February and July of 2023.
Leitch has agreed to a one-year limit, which prohibits her from carrying a resident/patient/client assignment where 51 per cent or more of those in her care have psychiatric, mental health, behavioural, or memory care issues.
She also must take remedial education in documentation, communication, and a respectful workplace; and agreed to a public reprimand.
The college reviews written complaints about all nurses and midwives currently or formerly registered to practise in B.C.