NMC suspends Karen Jane Makinson after finding she worked under the influence of alcohol

Aggravating factors

• Ms Makinson attending work under the influence of alcohol when she was the nurse in charge and the only nurse on a night shift with over 30 vulnerable residents in her care including some who were receiving end of life care. • In attempting to provide clinical care to vulnerable residents whilst intoxicated to the extent she was, Ms Makinson would have been unlikely to recognise a deteriorating patient or respond appropriately if an emergency situation arose which placed vulnerable residents at risk of significant harm. • As a consequence of Ms Makinson’s behaviour and condition, her colleagues had to dedicate a significant amount of time dealing with the situation and ensuring that she got home safely and this diversion from their normal roles redirected care away from vulnerable residents and placed them at unwarranted risk of harm. • Ms Makinson’s behaviour which included inappropriate, loud and prolonged laughter is likely to have been distressing for the residents, some of whom were receiving end of life care. • Ms Makinson has not shown any evidence of insight, remorse or any attempts to address the concerns, and she has been dismissive of the concerns both at a local level and during the Fitness to Practise proceedings.