‘Shocking and senseless attack’ on nursing staff member prompts review of security
Posted 14 June 2019 - 10:30
Police enquiries continue following stabbing of woman in emergency department
A hospital is reviewing its security arrangements after a member of its nursing staff was stabbed multiple times with a pair of scissors.
The woman was attacked in the emergency department of Newham University Hospital, east London, early on Wednesday morning.
The victim’s injuries were not deemed to be life-threatening, and, following treatment in the emergency department and admission to a ward, she was discharged.
Mental health assessment
The Metropolitan Police said a 27-year-old man had been detained under the Mental Health Act following an assessment, which was carried out while he was in custody at an east London police station.
The man was initially arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm shortly after the incident, following a call to the police at 5:39am on 12 June.
The police said the investigation continues and that the staff member who was attacked is being kept up to date on its progress.
Safety measures
Barts Health NHS Trust deputy group chief executive Shane DeGaris called the incident ‘a shocking and senseless attack’ on a member of staff doing their duty.
‘The trust condemns any form of violence and aggression against our dedicated and hard-working staff,’ he added.
‘In the light of this incident, we are reviewing security at all of our hospitals to ensure the safety of staff and patients at all times.’
Anyone with information should call the police on 101 quoting CAD 1063/12 June, or can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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