AN ex-nurse in Burnley, who was punished for failing to act when a patient was found lifeless, has been banned for six months after being embroiled in neglect claims.

Richard Lim was placed under restrictions on his medical practices after a patient collapsed at the Bupa-run Dove Court nursing home, off Colne Road, the Nursing & Midwifery Council was told.

Lim was said to have failed to call 999, did not perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and did not carry out basic observations on the stricken patient in September, 2013, a review panel was told. He admitted the charges and his fitness to practice was found to be impaired. The watchdog ruled his conduct was capable of remedial action and his employment continued.

The NMC placed him under restrictions for 18 months, including his remaining under the supervision of an experienced line manager or mentor and drawing up a personal development plan, to guard against him failing to act in an emergency situation in future.

Lim was also required to keep the regulator informed of any new postings and any further disciplinary action which may arise during the course of the 18 months.

Derek Zeitlin, for the NMC, said Lim had been the subject of a disciplinary hearing at his new employer, a nursing home in Cardiff, over “the unintentional neglect of a patient”. Lim had failed to follow correct procedures relating to providing pressure care relief, Mr Zeitlin said, and he had received a six-month verbal warning from his bosses.

Mr Zeitlin said it was noted Lim’s personal development plan appeared rushed and last-minute, and Lim had failed to meet his line manager for regular monthly reviews.

Lim said he had completed a course in emergency first aid at work and insisted that he knew the correct procedures and protocols to undertake in emergency situations.

Announcing a six-month ban, NMC review hearing chairman Martyn Griffiths said: “The panel considered that you have demonstrated no improved insight or remorse.