Worcestershire nurse cautioned for stealing drugs
A nurse has been cautioned for stealing drugs from Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
Darren Carthew admitted to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) that he stole the medication between September 2010 and January 2011.
A colleague noticed the emergency department's consumption of lorazepam dropped by two-thirds when Mr Carthew was on sick leave.
The NMC panel ruled that suspending him would not be in the public interest.
The tablets, which Mr Carthew stole for his own consumption, have a relaxing effect. He assured the panel he would not be tempted to reoffend.
The NMC accepted Mr Carthew showed insight and remorse and that he was a "competent and well-respected nurse".
A caution order will remain on his record for five years, the panel said.