Two nurses and three doctors have been assaulted by a patient at South Australia’s Port Pirie Hospital, the latest in a spate of violent attacks at regional hospitals, a union says.
The incident occurred on Saturday night with the patient approaching a nurse in a corridor, stepping on her foot and then punching her in the head.
The patient chased staff around the ward, injuring two nurses and three doctors who had to be treated in the emergency department.
The nature of the injuries was not disclosed.
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation said police were called and assisted in restraining the patient.
“Saturday’s harrowing incident follows a spate of recent violent episodes at regional hospitals where there are no 24/7 restraint-trained security guards to protect staff, patients and visitors,” federation chief executive Elizabeth Dabars said.
The union said in February that a man had to be tasered four times by police after smashing multiple glass panels at Wallaroo Hospital terrorising staff and patients just after midnight.
“We know from a review into hospital safety in Port Augusta and Whyalla last year that the presence of 24/7 security guards has had a very positive impact not only in terms of reducing violent incidents but also in alleviating the psychological stress on staff,” Ms Dabars said.
The union also urged the state government to implement other measures to improve safety, including extra education and training for health workers.
SA Health and police have been contacted for comment.