The encounter between 44-year-old Dr. Suhail Anjum and the unnamed nurse, both employed at Tameside Hospital in Greater Manchester, was discovered by a colleague in September 2023.

Dr. Anjum, the lead surgeon in an operation with a patient under general anesthetic, excused himself to use the restroom, asking another nurse to monitor the patient.

Instead, he went to an unused operating room to be with the nurse. Their tryst was interrupted minutes later when a colleague entered the room to retrieve equipment.

While the patient was unharmed, Dr. Anjum's 8-minute absence resulted in his dismissal in February 2024 following an internal inquiry.

Last week, he appeared before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service to determine whether his medical license would be revoked.

Dr. Anjum did not contest the evidence presented and admitted his actions were "shameful," assuring the tribunal that such behavior would never be repeated.

"I can only blame myself. I've let everyone down, not just the patient and myself but also the trust and image of the profession. I've let down my colleagues who had a lot of respect for me," he stated.

He explained the incident followed a "stressful period" with his family after the premature birth of his daughter and difficulties in his relationship with his wife.

The tribunal concluded Dr. Anjum "prioritized his own interests over those of the patient and his colleagues," failing to recognize the potential for distraction and patient harm during such activity mid-surgery.

Although the patient’s safety was not compromised, the tribunal deemed his conduct "serious enough to constitute serious misconduct."

Satisfied with Dr. Anjum's remorse and the low risk of recurrence, the tribunal decided against formal punishment. He retains his license but may receive a warning on his professional record.

Hai Thu (People, News Sky)