Mr. Barnes presents with elevated lipase levels indicating pancreatitis. The medical team initially plans to start a Demerol drip before discovering his history of substance abuse, which changes the treatment approach and becomes central to the episode's conflict about trust and addiction.
Also known as: Heroin addiction
Mr. Barnes has been admitted for substance abuse three times in the past year and is currently in rehab for over six months. His history becomes the focus of conflict when 50 Percocet go missing from the ward, with staff divided on whether to trust his recovery. This storyline drives the main plot tension between JD and both Elliot and Alex about judging addicts.
Also known as: Heroin addiction
Alex, JD's girlfriend and a hospital social worker, is revealed to have been stealing and using Percocet to cope with work stress. JD discovers the stolen pills in her purse, leading to the end of their relationship. She claims it's not a serious problem, but JD gives her referrals for help, though she never follows up.
Also known as: Blocked arteries
An unnamed diabetic patient with two-vessel coronary artery disease is discussed in a conflict between Turk and an attending physician about whether to pursue bypass surgery versus medical management with antianginals. The case serves as a subplot illustrating professional disagreement and territorial dynamics.