A consultant anaesthetist in Greater Manchester is facing possible sanctions after admitting that he abandoned a patient under anaesthetic midway through surgery to have sex with a nurse in another operating theatre.
Dr. Suhail Anjum appeared before a medical tribunal, where he confessed that he left the operating room at Tameside Hospital after asking a colleague to monitor the patient. He claimed he was taking a “comfort break,” but instead went to another theatre where he engaged in sexual activity with a nurse, identified only as Nurse C.
The incident came to light when a colleague entered the room unexpectedly and found Dr. Anjum and the nurse in a compromising position. The colleague immediately reported the matter, triggering an investigation by the hospital and the General Medical Council (GMC).
Tribunal Details and Doctor’s Admission
During the hearing, Andrew Molloy, representing the GMC, confirmed that no harm came to the patient despite being left under anaesthesia.
“It is right to say that no harm came to the patient when Dr. Anjum was absent from the theatre and the procedure went on without further incident,” Molloy told the tribunal.
Dr. Anjum admitted the allegations in full, describing his behaviour as “disgraceful” and issuing a public apology.
“It was quite shameful, to say the least. I only have myself to blame,” he said. “I offer my sincere apologies to everyone involved, and I want the opportunity to put this right.”
He added that the incident occurred during a “stressful time” in his family life but acknowledged that his actions were unacceptable.
Broader Context: Medical Ethics and Patient Safety
Medical experts say the case highlights a serious breach of professional standards. Under UK medical regulations, patient safety must remain the top priority at all times. Leaving a patient under anaesthetic without valid justification — even if monitored by a colleague — is considered a violation of the duty of care.
The GMC’s Good Medical Practice guidelines state that doctors must “make the care of your patient your first concern” and ensure that all clinical decisions put patient welfare first. A breach of this responsibility can lead to disciplinary action ranging from suspension to being struck off the medical register.
Legal analysts suggest that the tribunal’s decision will likely weigh the fact that no harm came to the patient against the severity of Dr. Anjum’s professional misconduct.
“This is not just about harm but about judgment,” said one UK-based medical law expert. “A doctor leaving an anaesthetised patient unattended to engage in personal activity is a serious lapse that undermines trust in the profession.”
Hospital and Public Reaction
Tameside Hospital has not publicly commented on the ongoing hearing, citing confidentiality. However, staff members have described the incident as “deeply shocking,” noting that operating theatres are highly controlled environments where discipline and professionalism are crucial.
Patient safety advocates have also weighed in, saying the case underscores the need for strict adherence to protocol. “Hospitals must ensure that such incidents are not only investigated but that lessons are learned,” one advocate told reporters.
The GMC panel is now deliberating whether Dr. Anjum’s behaviour constitutes serious professional misconduct. If found guilty, he could face a range of sanctions, including suspension from medical practice or permanent removal from the medical register.
The hearing will continue on Friday, where a final determination on disciplinary action is expected.
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