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Staff reported that the packaging appeared to have been cut open and replaced with similar looking tablets
ALTOONA, Pa. (WJAC) — A registered nurse at UPMC Altoona was charged for stealing Oxycodone tablets and replacing them with Vitamin D tablets, according to investigators.
Court documents show that 39-year-old Dena Pacifico is facing a felony charge and two misdemeanors related to the incidents.
Agents with the Attorney Generals office say UPMC police were notified in Nov. of suspected drug diversion that had been occurring on the 11th floor.
Staff had noticed that packaging for Oxycodone 10 mg tablets had been tampered with, the complaint says.
Staff reported that the packaging appeared to have been cut open and replaced with similar looking tablets, investigators say.
According to the complaint, the tampering happened several more times, so the hospital audited the 11th floor staff and noticed several red flags regarding Pacifico.
Agents say they interviewed Pacifico and she admitted to taking the Oxycodone tablets and replacing them with Vitamin D tablets.
Pacifico said she took the tablets to help her sleep, investigators say.
Pacifico’s formal arraignment is scheduled for July 23.
Tags: Adulteration Healthcare Diversion Opioid Crisis Oxycodone Patient Harm Provider Arrest
