Jul 04, 2023

Man arrested after allegedly impersonating mental health nurse at the Royal Adelaide Hospital

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SA Health has urged its staff to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the hospital's management.

A 22-year-old man from Newton, in Adelaide’s eastern regions, has been arrested for allegedly posing as an authorised mental health nurse and gaining unauthorised access to restricted sections of the Royal Adelaide Medical Center. 

The suspect, identified as Brandon Chesney, was taken into custody on June 20 after being charged with non-residential serious criminal trespass, theft, and possessing prohibited material, according to the police.

It is alleged that Chesney successfully impersonated as a mental health nurse at the hospital for an estimated period of eight weeks before being caught. During this time, he reportedly obtained false identification, allowing him to gain entry to restricted areas within the medical centre, raising serious concerns about the hospital’s security protocols.

However, a relative of Chesney claimed that he was employed at the hospital as a support worker and that he simply made an error by remaining in the hospital after his shift to speak with patients. SA Health, on the other hand, asserted that they have no records of Chesney ever being employed at the Royal Adelaide Medical Center in any capacity.

A spokesperson for SA Health affirmed that the moment they became aware of an unauthorised individual within a restricted area of the hospital, they immediately notified security and senior management, promptly reporting the matter to the police. They also stated that an internal review process had been initiated and the organisation is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation by SA Police.

Following the arrest, Chesney was released on bail and is scheduled to appear before the Adelaide Magistrates Court on August 30 to address the charges against him. Health Minister Chris Picton expressed to Seven News that the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness and hoped that the legal process would be followed rigorously.

In response to the incident, SA Health has urged its staff to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the hospital’s management. This incident highlights the importance of stringent security measures to ensure the safety and confidentiality of patients and staff within medical facilities.

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  1. I am really concerned about some of the placement students -& graduates of Torrens University & Think College. What are the acceptable literary levels and basic nursing skills? Does religion or ethnicity dictate level of involvement with either gender?

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