This week’s Chicago Med wastes no time dialing up the drama, focusing on Dr. Ripley’s self-implosion, Dr. Asher’s complicated patient, and Nurse Jackie’s tough custody battle. Let’s just say, not everyone makes it out unscathed.
Ripley, already teetering on the edge, finally takes a swan dive into the abyss. His anger issues boil over, landing him in a brawl that has serious consequences for both himself and his patient. A suspension seems inevitable; termination, a real possibility. Sharon Goodwin isn’t playing games, and the hospital’s liability looms large. Even Asher, who has stood by him through thick and thin, reaches her breaking point and ends their relationship.
Asher has her own hands full with Eva, a young woman facing a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy. Eva’s religious beliefs clash with the necessary medical intervention, throwing Asher—who has her own history of trauma—into a moral quandary. The situation becomes even more fraught when Eva reveals a recent sexual assault. Eva’s fiancé’s reaction? Demanding apologies. For both the assault and the life-saving abortion. Yeah, not a great guy.
Meanwhile, Jackie’s custody battle takes center stage. Her ex-husband dredges up her past mental health struggles in a bid to gain the upper hand. Dr. Charles testifies on Jackie’s behalf, prompting reflection on his own life and a frank discussion about their maybe-kinda-sorta relationship.
The ripple effects are felt throughout Gaffney. Maggie provides compassionate care to a trans woman struggling with dementia, ensuring she receives the dignity and respect she deserves. But the real gut punch comes from Ripley’s downward spiral. His patient from the fight suffers life-threatening injuries. Will Ripley face legal repercussions in addition to professional ones? And how will Med fill the void if he’s gone?
Chicago Med airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on NBC.
