What happens when a nurse shows up for work intoxicated? This is a question that arose in a shocking incident in Michigan City, Indiana.
Imagine this: a concerned citizen calls the police after witnessing a car driving erratically. The witness, an off-duty firefighter, follows the car as it enters a hospital parking lot. The driver hits a curb, then another car, before finally coming to a stop. The witness, shocked, realizes the driver is wearing a hospital uniform. What could have led to this? Let’s delve into the story to find out.
A Nurse’s Reckless Arrival
When police officers arrive at the hospital, they find the driver, 52-year-old nurse Candace Van Wardenburg, inside the hospital. Surprisingly, she’s not clocking in for her shift but is being wheeled around in a wheelchair.
Nurse being wheeled in a wheelchair
Candace claims she was feeling dizzy and almost passed out, leading to the accidents in the parking lot. She insists she was coming in for her 12-hour shift and was unaware of the collisions. However, as the officers investigate further, a different story begins to unfold.
A Troubling Confession
After a medical evaluation rules out a stroke, the officer’s suspicions grow. He questions Candace about her alcohol consumption, and she admits to having a few drinks that morning to help her sleep. She reveals she had been on leave for six months due to a shoulder injury and was scheduled to work her first full week back.
A nurse talking to a police officer
A portable breathalyzer test reveals a shockingly high blood alcohol content (BAC). The officer informs Candace that he will need to conduct a blood test to confirm the results. Despite initial hesitation, Candace consents to the blood test.
A Shocking BAC and a Life-Altering Mistake
The blood test confirms the initial findings: Candace’s BAC is 0.416, over five times the legal limit! The gravity of the situation hits Candace as she realizes the potential consequences of her actions. She is arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and leaving the scene of an accident.
Police arresting a nurse
As the officer drives Candace to jail, she asks about bail and what to expect. She expresses remorse and worry about her career and future. The officer, while empathetic, delivers a stern message about the dangers of drunk driving and the very real possibility of causing harm to herself or others.
A Wake-Up Call and a Stark Reminder
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drinking and driving. Candace’s story highlights that even those we trust to care for us can make life-altering mistakes under the influence of alcohol. This incident is a wake-up call for all of us to prioritize safety and make responsible choices.
