A consultant anaesthetist, Dr. Suhail Anjum, now faces serious allegations of misconduct after he is accused of leaving a patient under anaesthetic during surgery in order to have sex with a nurse. The incident is said to have occurred at a hospital in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester.
During what was supposed to be a routine procedure, Dr. Anjum reportedly left the operating theatre under the pretext of taking a brief “comfort break.” He allegedly left a male patient unconscious with another medical staff member in his place.
The Discovery
The allegations came to light when a colleague, named only as Nurse NT, walked into another theatre and saw Dr. Anjum and Nurse C in a compromising position. It is claimed that Nurse C had her trousers lowered and underwear exposed, while Dr. Anjum appeared to be adjusting the cord of his trousers. Nurse NT was reportedly shocked, immediately left, and then informed her line manager about what she had witnessed.
Facts Admitted, Harm Denied
Under proceedings at the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service, Dr. Anjum admitted that he had sexual activity with Nurse C, and did not dispute the basic facts of the case. He acknowledged that Nurse C was likely nearby when he left the operating room and admitted that his actions could have placed the patient at risk. However, it was noted by the tribunal that the patient was not harmed. The procedure continued without further incident.
Personal Admissions and Apology
Dr. Anjum has expressed remorse and described his actions as a “one-off error of judgement.” He said he felt ashamed, believing he let down his patient, himself, colleagues, and the trust placed in him. He has asked for an opportunity to make amends. He also described a difficult time in his personal life, including his daughter’s premature birth earlier in the year, and strains on his marriage. These, he said, contributed to stress and emotional turmoil.
Present Situation and Proposed Future
Dr. Anjum left his hospital post in February of the previous year and relocated to Pakistan. He has expressed hope to return to the UK to continue his medical career, though only after acknowledging the seriousness of what has happened. He has indicated that he will not repeat the behavior and that his misstep was not characteristic of his normal professional conduct.
Potential Consequences
The tribunal has yet to reach a verdict regarding whether Dr. Anjum remains fit to practice medicine. The case raises difficult questions about professionalism, medical ethics, patient safety, and the oversight of clinicians.
Reflection
This case underlines how breaches of trust in medical settings can have wide implications—not only legally, but for patients’ faith in healthcare systems. While no physical harm was reported in this instance, the alleged negligence in leaving a patient unattended, and the misuse of professional boundaries, reveal deep concerns. The outcome of the tribunal will likely affect Dr. Anjum’s career, the standard of conduct expected of medical professionals, and how hospitals manage such incidents in future.
Conclusion
The case of Dr. Suhail Anjum is a striking reminder of the enormous responsibility carried by medical professionals. Even when no physical harm is done, the trust between patient and doctor can be shaken by lapses in judgment. The tribunal’s decision will not only determine Dr. Anjum’s professional future but may also set a precedent for how such incidents are handled in healthcare settings. For patients, staff, and the wider public, this case underscores the importance of accountability, ethical conduct, and maintaining the highest standards of care—even under personal or emotional strain.
