In Medford, Oregon, a chilling sequence of events has unfolded at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center, leaving the community in shock and law enforcement deep into a criminal investigation. The grim narrative that’s emerging is one of alleged medical malpractice, resulting in multiple patient deaths.

Authorities are piecing together information from various sources, suggesting that a nurse at the facility may have been diverting fentanyl, a powerful pain medication, and replacing it with tap water. This alleged act of drug diversion, a term used when medical professionals misuse medication, is suspected to have led to deadly infections among patients, particularly in the Intensive Care Unit. Unconfirmed reports indicate that as many as nine or ten people may have succumbed to these infections, characterized by pseudomonas, a bacteria known for causing severe health issues in already vulnerable individuals.

The distressing details first surfaced in local news, with KOBI-TV and NBC5 reporting based on anonymous sources. These sources allege that the nurse injected patients with non-sterile tap water while misusing the fentanyl for personal purposes. The ramifications of this action, as explained by medical experts, are dire, with potential for sepsis, pneumonia, and widespread organ infection.

Hospital officials, while confirming an ongoing police investigation, have remained tight-lipped about the specifics. Lauren Van Sickle, a spokesperson for Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center, expressed distress over the situation but refrained from commenting further due to the investigation’s active status. Similarly, Medford police have acknowledged the investigation but have not released detailed information.

The ordeal has left families devastated and seeking answers. Stories like that of combat veteran Samuel Allison, who succumbed to a central line infection allegedly linked to this medical misconduct, and Barry Samsten, whose sudden deterioration raised alarms for his family, paint a harrowing picture of loss and betrayal of trust.

As the community grapples with the unfolding situation, questions about hospital procedures, water quality, and infection rates have come to the forefront. Public statements from Asante earlier in the year acknowledged efforts to tackle hospital-acquired infections, yet the current allegations suggest a more sinister underlying issue.

With the investigation in its early stages, the full scope and impact of these alleged actions remain unclear. Law enforcement, along with federal agencies, continues to delve into the case, promising a thorough examination of the facts. As the medical center and its staff reel from the implications, the community waits anxiously for answers and justice for the affected families. The story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability in healthcare settings, where the stakes are, quite literally, matters of life and death.

At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve, we take the welfare and well-being of the communities we serve very seriously.  We are deeply disturbed by the alleged malfeasance of Asante personnel.  We have previously litigated and prevailed in other matters against Asante and will continue to hold them accountable for protecting our communities whenever needed.  We currently represent victims of this negligence and will continue investigating this matter and welcome anyone with any information regarding this situation.

related articles by local Southern Oregon Media outlets: KOBI 5 | Oregon Live | Rogue Valley Times

Shlesinger & deVilleneuve Attorneys Media Coverage: KDRV | The Lund Report | Oregon Live