Nurse Swaps Opioids for Allergy Pills, Endangering Patients

A former case management coordinator for Intermountain Health, Shelbi Wolken, has pleaded guilty to a federal charge for stealing opioid medications. Between July 1, 2024, and approximately eight months later, she illicitly obtained prescriptions intended for more than 100 patients from various Saint Joseph's Hospital locations.

Wolken allegedly replaced prescribed oxycodone and hydromorphone with less potent medications like ibuprofen and allergy pills. While some patients reported no adverse effects, others experienced severe pain, with two C-section patients and another undergoing a procedure suffering greatly. One patient with internal bleeding described the inadequate medication as nearly fatal.

Hospital personnel discovered Wolken's scheme after reviewing surveillance footage showing her entering a bathroom with a patient's prescription. She admitted to using her badge and position to access at least 10 prescriptions. Federal investigators were alerted, leading to Wolken's confession to opioid addiction and awareness of the severe risks posed to patients.

Wolken is scheduled for sentencing on June 10, facing a potential maximum of 10 years in prison. Prosecutors acknowledge the possibility of a reduced sentence based on her acceptance of responsibility. Intermountain Health confirmed she is no longer employed by the organization.