Finding into death of Mark Brian Wilson

50y · Male·Mixed drug toxicity (propofol, codeine, diazepam)

Mark Wilson, a 50-year-old registered nurse at The Avenue Private Hospital, died from mixed drug toxicity involving propofol, codeine, and diazepam. He had access to propofol through his workplace and was found dead at home on 12 May 2013. The coroner determined he died by suicide. Key clinical lessons include: healthcare workers with access to potent anaesthetic agents represent a high-risk occupational group; 15 of 15 Victorian deaths (2000-2013) involving general anaesthetics were healthcare professionals; propofol causes fatal toxicity at blood levels as low as 0.2 mg/L and requires cardiovascular/respiratory monitoring; and secure storage of theatre drugs is essential. The coroner noted Wilson had chronic lung disease, hepatitis C, and previous mood concerns. Hospitals must restrict access to general anaesthetics through enhanced security, CCTV monitoring of drug storage areas, controlled access codes, and mandatory accompaniment by theatre staff for non-theatre personnel.