Judge Orders STD Testing After Nurse Arrested Over Patient Assaults

A Wake County judge on December 22 ordered that Brayan Alvarez-Ortiz undergo testing for sexually transmitted diseases following his arrest earlier this month. Alvarez-Ortiz, 28, was arrested on December 10 after authorities say he assaulted at least two sedated patients. Hospital records show he was fired from UNC REX on November 25 after alleged incidents that investigators say occurred on November 3 and were reported on November 19.

The court found that the alleged sexual contact presented a significant risk of disease transmission and directed that testing be carried out through the Wake County Health Department. The order requires that test results be reported to the District Attorney's Office as part of the criminal case. Raleigh police have said investigators believe there may be additional victims and urged anyone with similar experiences to contact Raleigh Police at 919 996 1193 or Raleigh Crime Stoppers.

For patients and family members, the order signals an immediate public health step intended to identify infections and link people to care. Testing through the county health department can provide confidential screening, treatment referrals, and connections to counseling services. Local public health officials and hospital administrators face pressure to ensure that screening and follow up care are accessible, especially for patients who were sedated and therefore unable to consent or report abuse at the time.

The case raises broader questions about patient safety, workplace oversight, and reporting systems within health care settings. Sedated patients are among the most vulnerable in hospitals, and community advocates say the incident highlights the need for stronger safeguards, transparent incident reporting, and timely support for survivors. Raleigh police have indicated they can provide trauma counseling support to victims, and they and local health services can refer people to counseling and medical care.

As the criminal case proceeds and testing results are transmitted to prosecutors, investigators continue to seek anyone who may have been affected. Residents with information or concerns are asked to contact Raleigh Police at 919 996 1193 or Raleigh Crime Stoppers. The directive for testing and the possibility of additional victims make this an important public health and safety matter for Wake County families and the health care community.