Drug Mix-Up At US Hospital Leaves 2 Paralysed, 4 With Complications After Surgery

A medication mix-up at a hospital in Tennessee, United States, has left four patients with life-threatening complications after they were allegedly given potassium instead of standard pain medication during routine joint replacement surgeries.

The incident occurred on August 14 at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital in Nashville, prompting investigations by Tennessee health authorities and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI).

According to CBS News, the affected patients were undergoing outpatient joint replacement procedures when they received doses of potassium in error.

Families of the patients told local broadcaster WTVF that two patients have been left paralysed, while another remains in the intensive care unit.

One of the victims, 72-year-old Glenda Dorton, underwent what was expected to be a routine knee replacement surgery. Her attorney, Mark Walwyn, said the surgical procedure itself was successful, but the medication error has left her paralysed.

Walwyn described her condition as “dire” and said her long-term prognosis remains uncertain.

In a statement on behalf of Dorton’s family, he said she remains under medical care and is “facing a long and uncertain recovery.”

Hospital officials said they became aware of the incident on the same day it happened and immediately reported it to state regulators.

Dr Shubhada Jagasia, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown, said the hospital had launched an internal investigation after identifying the medication error.

“We identified the cause and have implemented corrective safeguards,” Jagasia said.

She, however, did not disclose what caused the mix-up or provide details of the new safety measures, adding that clinical teams are “actively using these enhanced safety protocols to ensure the highest level of safety” at the hospital.

Jagasia also said hospital officials have met with the families of the affected patients but would not release specific clinical information about their conditions.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation confirmed it is conducting an active investigation after receiving a referral from the Tennessee Healthcare Facilities Commission.

Potassium is commonly used in hospitals for several medical conditions. As an essential mineral and electrolyte, it helps regulate heart, muscle and nerve function. Potassium citrate is often prescribed for kidney stones, while potassium chloride is used to treat low potassium levels.

However, medical experts warn that administering potassium incorrectly or too rapidly can have devastating consequences, including cardiac arrest.

Medical malpractice attorney Clint Kelly, who is not representing any of the affected patients, described the case as one of the most severe medical errors he has encountered.

“Just think of it like battery acid going into the most tender nerves in your body,” Kelly said while speaking on CBS Mornings. “It’s the worst type of injury you can imagine.”

Authorities have yet to determine publicly how the medications were mixed up as investigations continue.