Hospital allegedly gave patients wrong drug; at least 1 left paralyzed

Key Points:

• Four patients undergoing routine joint replacement surgeries at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown in Nashville were mistakenly injected with potassium phosphate instead of the intended anesthetic, bupivacaine, leading to serious health complications including paralysis in at least two patients.
• The hospital acknowledged the medication error, reported adverse health reactions, and has initiated an internal investigation while implementing enhanced safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
• The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is actively investigating the case following a report from the Tennessee Healthcare Facilities Commission.
• Hospital leadership has expressed deep regret, offered support to affected families, and is providing ongoing care resources, though recovery outcomes remain uncertain, especially for one patient who remains paralyzed from the breastbone down.
• Families affected by the incident emphasize the urgency of effective treatment, describing the situation as life-changing with potentially catastrophic long-term effects.