A mental health nurse has been struck off the register after admitting to taking drugs with a vulnerable patient.
Karli Anderson worked at an inpatient unit run by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.
She first registered as a nurse in 1998.
Her career was otherwise unblemished.
The patient, known as Patient A, has schizophrenia and a personality disorder.
He was a regular inpatient.
Anderson was his primary nurse for most admissions.
After discharge in summer 2018, they met in the community and became friends.
When Patient A was readmitted later that year, Anderson reported the friendship.
She was redeployed and completed training on professional boundaries.
In November 2019, relatives reported concerns to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
They said Anderson had used illicit substances with Patient A.
During a 2020 investigation, Anderson initially denied taking drugs or knowing Patient A used them.
In a re-interview, she admitted taking cannabis and ecstasy with Patient A on a handful of occasions when he was in the community.
Patient A confirmed they had taken the drugs together.
He said he mainly initiated it.
In July 2025, Anderson admitted all charges and professional impairment.
The NMC fitness to practise committee found her actions seriously breached standards.
It described taking drugs with a very vulnerable patient as “fundamentally incompatible” with remaining on the register.
The committee noted the drugs could exacerbate the patient’s condition.
Anderson received a striking-off order.
An interim suspension order was imposed for 18 months to cover any appeal.
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Charles Wealth is an accomplished healthcare administrator with decades of hands-on experience across various healthcare organizations in Nigeria and beyond. Known for his strategic leadership, operational excellence, and deep commitment to advancing the nursing profession, Charles brings a wealth of expertise to healthcare management, policy, and professional development.
As a co-founder and Editor at Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a pivotal role in shaping content that educates, inspires, and unites nurses across the continent. His editorial vision focuses on amplifying the voices of nurses, highlighting best practices, addressing contemporary challenges in healthcare, and promoting professional growth within the nursing community.
With a strong background in healthcare administration, Charles is passionate about bridging the gap between clinical practice and effective leadership. He continues to contribute significantly to the development of robust healthcare systems and the empowerment of nurses through knowledge sharing and advocacy.
