PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — The nursing home administrator accused of forcing an employee to work despite testing positive for COVID-19 last year can now apply to have her license reinstated, 12 News has learned.

Kristine Pacheco's nursing license was suspended back in August 2024 after she reportedly directed the employee to return to work prior to the end of her seven-day isolation period, according to a suspension notice made public by the Rhode Island Department of Health.

The Health Department confirmed Pacheco was working at the Pawtucket Falls Healthcare Center at the time in a recently-released consent order.

Pacheco repeatedly asked the employee to prepare residents’ meals without supervision, even though the suspension notice stated she “was not properly trained, certified or lic

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