Safety is lacking in N.J's operating facilities. who may have been exposed to 3,000 people with HIV

SADDLE BROOK, N.J. – State researchers say the New Jersey operations center that may have exposed more than 3,000 patients with HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C using poor drug storage methods, outdated infection control plans and unacceptable sterilization practices.

The findings at the HealthPlus Surgery Center in Saddle Brook were included in the state Health Department report published Friday.

The center was closed for three weeks in September after officials received complaints. Two employees were fired after the revelation that nearly 3,800 former patients might have been exposed to the disease.

People have been urged to be tested, but the government said no disease was reported.

The central nursing director resigned the day before the facility was closed. But the central lawyer refused to say whether it was related to complaints and closure.