Thomas Thayer's Ethical Issues In Nursing

Thomas Thayer, who was employed as a nurse at the Medical University of South Carolina, misused his position, which resulted in a breach of ethics within the workplace. Thayer used his position to acquire controlled substances for his personal use. Upon realization of his unethical conduct, the “State Board of Nursing in South Carolina,” punished Thayer for his despicable actions.
Identification of the Issue The unethical issues concerning the acquiring and misuse of controlled substances by Thomas Thayer, occurred over an extended period of time. To begin, on February 25, 2003, Thayer was caught taking Propophol from the hospital with the intent to use the medication for personal use (1). Upon questioning, Thayer admitted to the inappropriate behavior, which was then reported, and he received due punishment from the state “Board (1).” Even though
To begin, due to being a nurse, Thayer had access to controlled substances and unfortunately, for Thayer, the temptation seems to have been too great a burden. After repeated offenses, he was justly punished for his breach of trust. The one-year suspension took away his profession and means of economic support. By making his actions part of the public record, he was duly shamed and embarrassed within his professional community as well as in the eye of the general public. In turn, the state “Board” generously provided for his rehabilitation after disciplinary action. They provided/required the nurse to stay substance clean and get involved with professional help groups in the hope that these nurses can return and again become trusted professionals. The two part, disciplinary and rehabilitory aspects of the state “Board’s” courses of action in regard to unethical misconduct is to protect the medical institutions, patients, and even the nurse, who breaches their ethical duty by personal