Ealing Hospital has implemented stricter security measures following a shocking breach in which a woman posing as a doctor accessed a patient in police custody and administered an unknown substance. The incident, which occurred on April 19, involved 20-year-old Kreuena Zdrafkova, who entered the hospital dressed as a doctor, complete with a white coat, stethoscope, gloves, and a badge.
Zdrafkova approached the patient, guarded by two police officers, and claimed to administer medication to calm him. She also took photographs of the patient’s neck and hand while carrying tubes she said were for blood samples. Hospital CCTV later revealed that she had entered an ambulance, spoken to a paramedic, and been seen handling medical equipment in the blood room.
Security Breach Details and Arrest
Three days after the incident, Zdrafkova returned to the hospital and was arrested while in possession of medical documents. Isleworth Crown Court heard that Zdrafkova, who has no medical training, was motivated by a desire to live out her “dream of becoming a doctor” and had no intention of harming patients.
Zdrafkova pleaded guilty to common assault and received a community order, which includes 15 days of rehabilitation. She has also been banned from entering NHS facilities except for pre-arranged or urgent appointments for herself or her children and visiting family members in the hospital.
Hospital Responds with Heightened Security
In response to the incident, the London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, which oversees Ealing Hospital, took immediate action to bolster security. A spokesperson stated: “We fully supported the police investigation into this highly unusual incident, taking immediate action to support the apprehension of the individual and enhance our security measures.” The trust emphasized its commitment to preventing similar breaches in the future.
Court Proceedings and Restrictions
Zdrafkova, a mother of six-year-old twin boys from Hanwell in west London, followed court proceedings with the assistance of a Turkish interpreter. Her sentence also includes restrictions limiting her access to NHS facilities.
This incident has raised concerns about hospital security protocols and the measures necessary to safeguard patients, staff, and medical resources.
