Nigerian Nurse Loses Licence After Sleeping During Shift in Australia
A Nigerian nurse working in Australia has lost her professional licence after an investigation found that she repeatedly slept while on duty during night shifts.
The nurse, identified as Chimzuruoke Okembunachi, had her registration cancelled by Australian health authorities following findings of professional misconduct. According to tribunal records, she was observed on multiple occasions sleeping during scheduled working hours while responsible for patient care.
The conduct was said to have occurred during night shifts, raising serious concerns about patient safety and professional standards in the healthcare facility where she was employed.
Regulatory authorities noted that nurses are required to remain alert and attentive at all times while on duty, especially during overnight shifts when patients may require urgent medical attention.
In its ruling, the tribunal described the behaviour as a breach of trust and a violation of the professional obligations expected of registered nurses. The panel concluded that the repeated nature of the misconduct made it incompatible with continued registration.
As a result, Okembunachi’s licence was cancelled, effectively barring her from practising nursing in Australia unless she successfully reapplies in the future under strict conditions.
The case has sparked discussions within the healthcare sector about fatigue management, working conditions during night shifts, and the responsibility of medical professionals to maintain patient safety at all times.
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