In a shocking incident, a former police officer turned visiting nurse in Raymond has been indicted on charges of sexually assaulting an 88-year-old woman he was supposed to be caring for.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the normally quiet community in Raymond. The allegations, investigation, and charges against the accused have caused concern and alarm for the safety of elderly patients in the care of licensed nurses.
Allegations And Investigation
Last fall, the Board of Nursing received allegations that prompted an inquiry uncovering multiple grievances against Robert Allore, 62, from Fremont.
The complaints include not only inappropriate contact such as groping and kissing a female patient. It further states that Allore failed to maintain professional boundaries as a nurse by offering or requesting sexual favors. Moreover, it has been reported that he engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with the patient.
The Alleged Assault
The alleged assault happened in September when Allore cared for the woman in her home. Allore was working as a member of the Rockingham Visiting Nurse Association, affiliated with Exeter Health. Which they promote as the “highest quality of home care.”
This incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of background checks and screening procedures for licensed nurses. The Rockingham Visiting Nurse Association and Exeter Health have not commented on the incident.
The Board Of Nurses’ Action
The Board of Nurses voted to remove Allore’s license to practice as a nurse. They took action to protect the public and also to prevent Allore from harming other vulnerable patients.
This demonstrates their seriousness in handling allegations of sexual assault and their commitment to taking appropriate measures to safeguard the public.
The Accused’s Background
Before becoming a licensed nurse, Allore spent 15 years as a part-time police officer in Fremont. Also, The town’s police chief confirmed that he was not working for the department at the time of these recent allegations as he resigned from the force in 2015.
The accused has not commented on the allegations, and it is still unknown how the 88-year-old woman is doing.
Preventing Incidents Of Sexual Assault By Healthcare Professionals
Preventing sexual abuse and misconduct by healthcare professionals is undeniably essential. Hence, New Hampshire Board of Nursing took swift action in responding to the complaints and suspending Allore’s license right away.
According to documents, Allore signed a Voluntary Preliminary Agreement Not to Practice in the state of New Hampshire. While most healthcare professionals prioritize their patients’ well-being and adhere to ethical standards, it is essential to take precautions to prevent incidents of sexual assault.
Here are the standard precautionary measures in the healthcare system:
- Thorough background checks
Healthcare facilities and agencies conduct thorough background checks before hiring new employees. These are usually a level II background check and a professional history. All of which include criminal background, license verification, and reference checks. - Comprehensive training
Healthcare professionals receive comprehensive training on ethical and professional behavior, including appropriate boundaries with patients. They should understand the importance of informed consent and respect for patient’s autonomy. - Regular supervision
Healthcare professionals should be regularly supervised to ensure that they are adhering to ethical and professional standards. - Reporting systems
Healthcare facilities establish reporting systems that enable patients and staff to report incidents of sexual abuse or misconduct. Moreover, these systems ensure confidentiality and provide support to victims. - Swift and appropriate action
When allegations of sexual abuse or misconduct arise, healthcare facilities are to take swift and appropriate action to investigate the claims and ensure the safety of patients.
This may include suspending the accused healthcare professional, reporting the incident to authorities, and providing support to victims.
Takeaway
This case is a reminder of the risks patients face from healthcare professionals who engage in sexual abuse and misconduct.
Although the vast majority of healthcare workers are dedicated to their patient’s well-being and adhere to ethical and professional standards, the far-reaching consequences of a few bad actors’ actions can affect individual patients and public trust in the healthcare system.
Additionally, by prioritizing patient safety and taking swift action to investigate allegations of any misconduct, healthcare organizations can demonstrate their commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
Ultimately, it is only through sustained vigilance and a collective commitment to preventing sexual abuse and misconduct that patients can receive the compassionate, respectful care they deserve.