URGENT UPDATE: A nurse has been banned for two years following a shocking discovery of an intimate relationship with a vulnerable mental health patient. Dilnoor Kang, formerly employed at the Wagga Wagga Mental Health Unit in New South Wales, was found guilty of professional misconduct by the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal after details of her inappropriate behavior were revealed.
The tribunal’s judgment, released on September 29, 2023, disclosed that Kang engaged in a years-long relationship with a patient identified as Patient A, who was admitted for acute mental health issues, including suicidal and homicidal ideation. The disturbing relationship included a trip to an escape room, thousands of exchanged messages, and physical affection, all while Kang was part of the patient’s care team.
In mid-2021, Kang booked a trip for herself and Patient A to The Riddle Room escape rooms in Canberra. Throughout 2022, witnesses reported seeing them kissing and hugging, both at her home and in her car. Over the course of the year, they exchanged a staggering 5,000 messages and calls.
The situation escalated when Kang visited Patient A in the hospital during a psychosis treatment, a visit that raised alarms among other staff members. The patient later expressed to another nurse that he felt as if Kang was “playing with his head.”
The relationship took a confrontational turn in January 2024 when police were called after Patient A slapped Kang during an argument at her residence. Both admitted to being in a relationship, prompting an investigation by the Murrumbidgee Local Health District, which ultimately led to Kang’s termination in September 2023.
Despite initially admitting to the relationship, Kang later retracted her statements, claiming she believed she was communicating with another man online. The tribunal deemed these claims “implausible” and noted that Kang had provided false information to health authorities regarding the nature of her relationship with the patient.
The tribunal emphasized the serious nature of Kang’s misconduct, stating: “The risk of harm to a mental health patient in those circumstances is considerable.” They opted not to classify the relationship as sexual, focusing instead on the clear evidence of inappropriate intimacy.
As a result of this ruling, Kang has been disqualified from practicing as a nurse for two years, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in the mental health sector. The case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of professional boundaries in healthcare settings.
This verdict raises significant questions about patient safety and the ethical responsibilities of healthcare professionals. Authorities continue to stress the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals in care.
For those in need, support is available through Lifeline at 13 11 14 and beyondblue at 1300 22 4636.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
