Story perspectives

Hospital Investigates Potassium Chloride Mix-Up, Leaving Four Paralyzed

8/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown in Nashville gave potassium chloride instead of epidural bupivacaine during surgeries, causing a mix-up.
The error harmed at least four patients, including 72-year-old Glenda Dorton, who is now paralyzed and in the ICU.
Hospital President and CEO Dr. Shubhada Jagasia apologized to families and offered spiritual care.
The hospital reported the incident to Tennessee regulators the same day, prompting an investigation and adding safeguards.

1 of 1

Story summary

Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown in Nashville gave potassium chloride instead of epidural bupivacaine during surgeries, causing a mix-up.
The error harmed at least four patients, including 72-year-old Glenda Dorton, who is now paralyzed and in the ICU.
Hospital President and CEO Dr. Shubhada Jagasia apologized to families and offered spiritual care.
The hospital reported the incident to Tennessee regulators the same day, prompting an investigation and adding safeguards.