Nurse arrested on suspicion of mistreating patient

The alleged incident occurred on a ward caring for elderly patients.

A nurse has been arrested on suspicion of the ill-treatment of a patient.

The unnamed staff member at Cheltenham General Hospital was suspended from duty in the past few weeks after concerns relating to the possible misuse of a type of sleeping pill called Zopiclone, the BBC understands.

The alleged incident occurred on a ward caring for elderly patients.

In a statement, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said it took "immediate action" as soon as concerns were raised.

Gloucestershire Constabulary has confirmed that an investigation is under way.

It added: "One person has been arrested and released on bail while enquiries continue."

The staff member has been arrested on suspicion of the ill treatment or wilful neglect of an individual, the force added.

The NHS website describes Zopiclone as “a type of sleeping pill that can be taken for short-term treatment of severe insomnia".

One line of enquiry for the police is believed to be establishing if there are any wider concerns and whether any other patients have been affected.

The hospital is separately conducting its own investigation into the incident.

In a statement, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said: "As soon as concerns were raised, we took immediate action including reporting the matter to the police and contacting the family directly.

"A member of staff has been suspended, and an internal investigation is underway. We continue to co-operate fully with all relevant authorities.

"It would not be appropriate to share any more information whilst investigations are ongoing.

"We are providing ongoing support to the family and our staff. The Trust is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all patients, visitors, and staff."

The Trust has asked anyone with information to contact its Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS).