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No charges against Moncton Hospital nurse accused of administering labour-inducing drug

As of Oct. 18, 2021, a total of 14 patients and 10 staff members are impacted by the outbreaks on Units 4200 (oncology) and 5600 (general surgery) at Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital. File/Global News

Police have confirmed charges will not be laid against a former Moncton Hospital nurse accused of administering oxytocin — a labour-inducing drug — to women without their consent.

During a phone call Tuesday, Codiac Regional RCMP Sgt. Mathieu Roy said the case was forwarded to the Crown prosecutor’s office following a thorough investigation.

He said they determined charges would not be laid and mothers involved have been contacted and informed.

READ MORE: Nurse denies allegations in labour-inducing drug case at N.B hospital

Nicole Ruest was arrested in November 2019 in connection with the string of premature births at the Moncton Hospital.

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In a proposed class-action lawsuit, several women came forward claiming Ruest improperly gave them oxytocin, arguing that Moncton Hospital either knew or should have known about it.

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Click to play video: 'Lawsuit involving alleged misuse of labour-inducing drug at Moncton Hospital in court'
Lawsuit involving alleged misuse of labour-inducing drug at Moncton Hospital in court

A Horizon Health investigation found two women required urgent C-sections as a result.

The class action was seeking a full apology and a system for compensation for the harm caused.

The RCMP began an investigation after the allegations surfaced.

In a statement Tuesday, Horizon Health CEO Karen McGrath confirmed the case will not lead to criminal charges, but she declined further comment while the issue is still before the courts.

READ MORE: Women launch lawsuit in labour-inducing drug case at Moncton hospital

Ruest has denied all allegations of negligence.

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