FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — For the second time this year, an HCA Florida nurse in South Florida has been arrested on accusations of stealing narcotics meant for patients — this time at Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce, according to newly released court records.
Nichole Spruitenburg, 38, of Port St. Lucie, was booked into the St. Lucie County Jail on Nov. 16 after being extradited from Marquette, Michigan. Investigators say the Lawnwood Hospital nurse repeatedly stole pain medications and diluted doses intended for patients.
Spruitenburg is charged with 13 counts of possession of a controlled substance without a prescription and 13 counts of grand theft of a controlled substance. Her bond is set at $130,000.
HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital provided the following statement to CBS12 News:…