On May 28, 2020 a panel of the Inquiry Committee approved a Consent Agreement between BCCNP and Denise Hamilton of Interior Health, to address conduct occurring from March to November 2018. Ms. Hamilton developed a relationship with a client beyond the scope of her employment role – including frequent emails in and out of work hours, the introduction of touch therapy to the care plan, and home visits – before proceeding to an intimate relationship that was later reported to the employer by the client.
Entering a friendship or intimate relationship with a client and near client is prohibited. Relationships of any type with former clients must be entered into with
a high degree of caution and in careful consideration of the factors outlined in BCCNP's Boundaries in the Nurse-Client Relationship Practice Standard in addition to relevant employer policies:
Ms. Hamilton allowed her registration to lapse during the course of investigation. The Registrant has voluntarily agreed to cancellation of her registration. She agreed not to apply for reinstatement of registration for at least five years. Should she apply for reinstatement, she will be required to meet the character, competence and fitness requirements of registration.
The Inquiry Committee is satisfied that the terms will protect the public.