How a simple background check could have exposed a fake medical student

Serious consequences of lack of control and routines

The man, who pretended to be a medical student, was allowed to work at the nursing home without any prior checks on his qualifications or background. This could have had serious consequences for the patients and gone very wrong.

He was first hired as a temporary worker and given regular duties as a nurse with access to medication, often on night duty, responsible for many patients.

Had no formal qualifications

Several employees eventually reacted to the man's lack of basic medical skills and reported him, but the reports were not acted upon.

This is not an isolated incident. Several similar cases have been uncovered, where people without the necessary qualifications have been given positions in critical sectors such as healthcare. This puts patient safety at risk and damages trust in institutions that rely on qualified personnel.

In this case, the fake medical student was eventually exposed after staff raised the alarm. A check with the university he claimed to be affiliated with showed that he had never been registered as a student there.

A police certificate, which is required for such positions, was also not obtained. The only document checked upon employment was the man's CV.

A supervisory case has now been opened against the Strannasenteret nursing home.

Why background checks are crucial

To avoid such situations, employers must ensure that all employees have the necessary qualifications before they start work. This involves a background check of educational history, previous work experience and authorizations, especially in sectors that require specific permits. A thorough check of references and any remarks in the record can also help prevent unqualified people from getting jobs they are not suitable for.

This case stresses the need for stricter procedures and updated controls in hiring processes. When such measures are not in place, the risk of the wrong people getting jobs they are not qualified for increases.

Employers have a responsibility to ensure that employees have the right skills – both for the sake of the business and for the safety of those who rely on their services.

Although employment systems are constantly improving, this case shows that there are still loopholes that can be exploited.

Simple and effective control routines like those offered by Manymore can be the difference between a safe workplace and serious consequences.