A man under police guard at a western Sydney hospital, after allegations he slashed and assaulted hospital workers, will be investigated for possible mental health and drug issues.
The background: Police responded late on Friday night to reports a man had attacked several staff members at Westmead Hospital.
The 39-year-old man allegedly slashed two male security guards, aged 24 and 25, and dislocated the shoulder of a third. A 29-year-old nurse, also male, was injured in the attack.
The four are “all fine” with minor injuries that were treated on-site and did not require hospitalisation, a police spokesman said.
Health Services Union NSW has responded to the incident, calling “senseless violence” against hospital staff horrifying.
The key quote: “For the last decade, we have had shootings, stabbings and flesh torn from the bodies of our members. For the workers on the receiving end, the trauma will continue long after the physical scars have healed.” – Gerard Hayes, secretary of the Health Services Union NSW.
What else to know: The man was arrested and remains under guard at the hospital. He has not been charged and will be interviewed by police once he leaves the hospital.
What happens next: The union said it will push for greater security numbers and powers at hospitals, and better personal protective equipment.
Readers seeking support with mental health can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. More information is available at .
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