Police investigating after saline drips 'tampered with' at Carlisle hospital

Spokesman says no indications so far any patients were adversely affected but North Cumbria Hospitals Trust co-operating with authorities

The hospital is helping local police with their investigation and says patient safety is its top priority (iStock)

Police are investigating after saline bags were tampered with at a hospital.

North Cumbria University Hospitals Trust said security measures had been increased across Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle after a small number of saline bags which appeared to have been tampered with were discovered by a member of staff on Wednesday January 4.

A spokesman said there were no indications that any patients had been adversely affected.

Dr Rod Harpin, medical director at North Cumbria University Hospitals Trust, said: “I can confirm that the trust contacted the police on Wednesday 4 January regarding a small number of saline bags at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle that appear to have been tampered with.

”We immediately implemented our serious incident procedures and there is no indication that any patients have been adversely affected but we continue to monitor this closely.

“Patient safety is our absolute priority and we will continue to work closely with the police.”

If patients have any questions or concerns, they can contact the trust on 01228 814247.

PA