Dentist has license suspended after patient death

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - A Williamston dentist has had his license suspended after the death of a patient from an apparent overdose of a sedative.

The News & Observer of Raleigh reports (https://bit.ly/1p5TUrL ) that Zachary Harrison’s license is suspended for 10 years by the North Carolina Board of Dental Examiners. He can apply to have the license reinstated after one year if he completes special courses.

Authorities say a 71-year-old patient died after Harrison sedated him in September 2013 to pull teeth. The board ruled Harrison didn’t consider the patient’s age and weight and didn’t gradually increase the amount of sedative. The board says Harrison failed to give the patient a rescue drug when he became unresponsive.

Harrison’s lawyer says he is a compassionate dentist who acted properly and he may appeal.

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Information from: The News & Observer, https://www.newsobserver.com