Michigan Nurse Charged in Abuse of Premature Infant

A nurse in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has been charged with multiple counts of child abuse after allegedly inflicting broken bones and bruises on a premature infant at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. Kieran Ansley, 43, was fired from the hospital following the allegations.

The infant, born four months premature, had been hospitalized for months and was nearing her expected discharge date in April. According to reports, her grandfather stated the baby was making progress and anticipated going home soon.

On April 2, the child's mother visited and noticed new bruises on her daughter, as well as a tongue that appeared "blue and black." Court records indicate that Ansley, who was present during the mother's visit, allegedly downplayed the injuries, stating she had "seen this in the past and it was not a big deal."

During an investigation into the incident, hospital staff described Ansley as appearing "flustered," "a little bit frustrated," and "scatterbrained" on the night in question. Other colleagues recalled her seeming "heated" and "overwhelmed."

Records from the night of the alleged abuse show 32 entries into the baby’s room. Ansley was responsible for 27 of those visits, according to reports.

Ansley's attorney, Damian Nunzio, told WOOD-TV that Ansley has been cooperative with investigators, has extensive experience working with ICU patients, and is a "very good person." Nunzio expressed confidence that their own investigation will reveal the truth.

Ansley has since been released on bond and is scheduled to appear in court on November 10. The child, now 10 months old, is reportedly at home and doing well. The grandfather told WOOD-TV, "We’ve been blessed, and we’ve watched the baby grow."