TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) A nurse from Fort Riley who diluted morphine solutions at a Salina nursing home is due in court for sentencing.
Melanie Morrison was scheduled be sentenced Friday in federal court in Topeka for consumer product tampering and adulteration of a drug at the Holiday Resort Nursing Facility in Salina.
Morrison admitted putting sodium chloride into solutions of morphine sulfate, reducing the painkiller’s quality and strength. Sodium chloride is dangerous to some patients, particularly those with congestive heart failure or severe renal insufficiency.
Morrison struck a deal with prosecutors that could send her to prison for three years. She also agreed to surrender her nursing license and never work in health care again.
Prosecutors are recommending she be admitted to a drug addiction program, which could get her out of prison early.
