Prayer-row nurse goes back to work
Friday February 06 2009
A Christian nurse who was suspended after offering to pray for the recovery of an elderly patient was yesterday asked to return to work.
Caroline Petrie (far right) was accused by an English heathcare trust of failing to show a commitment to equality and diversity after the incident and was awaiting the outcome of a disciplinary hearing.
A statement from NHS North Somerset Primary Care Trust (PCT), for whom Ms Petrie worked as a nurse, said: "NHS North Somerset have contacted Caroline Petrie (45) with a view to her returning back to work as soon as she feels able. We have always been keen to bring this matter to a timely resolution. It has been a distressing and difficult time for Caroline and all staff involved."
Ms Petrie, a community nurse who carries out home visits in Somerset, England, was suspended after she visited a woman in Winscombe in December.
She asked: "Would you like me to pray for you?" after putting dressings on her legs and the woman refused.
It is believed the patient later raised the issue with senior NHS staff.
Ms Petrie, a married mother of two, was suspended by the care trust and faced losing her job. In its statement, the trust said it was "right to investigate concerns" but hoped Ms Petrie would return soon.
Ms Petrie previously argued she had not forced her beliefs on anyone. She was not available for comment last night.
- Jamie Grierson
