A hospital nurse in Greater Manchester is currently fighting for her life following a violent attack by a patient who reportedly became angry over a long wait to be seen.
The nurse, a woman in her 50s, was working in the accident and emergency unit of the Royal Oldham Hospital when she was assaulted, leaving her with serious injuries that are believed to be life-changing.
A Sudden and Frightening Incident
The attack, which took place late on Saturday night, shocked both hospital staff and the local community.
According to police reports, the assailant used a “sharp instrument” rather than a knife, though details on the weapon remain unclear.
Greater Manchester Police quickly arrested a 37-year-old man at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.
Jim McMahon, the Labour MP for Oldham West, Chadderton, and Royton, expressed his shock over the incident, saying, “We are all shocked at the senseless attack on a nurse in the A&E department of the Royal Oldham Hospital.
Our thoughts are with the nurse, family and friends as we wish a full recovery.”
The Dispute That Led to the Attack
Witnesses have suggested that the incident may have been sparked by a disagreement between the nurse and the patient.
One nurse at the hospital described the situation as a row that escalated after the patient became frustrated with the wait time. “It’s terrible – there was a row with a patient.
I think they became angry because they had to wait to be seen. It’s scary,” she said.
Another nurse echoed these sentiments, noting that although the situation was tense, it wasn’t a case of the patient “going berserk” but rather a disagreement that “just got out of hand.”
Community Shocked and Supportive
Local resident Mike Lawton, 58, who lives near the hospital, voiced his shock over the incident, expressing sympathy for the nurse. “It’s shocking.
The nurses work such long hours and then something like this happens. I hope she’s OK.”
The Royal Oldham Hospital has expressed its sadness over the attack, confirming that the assault occurred around 11:30 PM.
The hospital’s focus is now on supporting the injured nurse and her family.
“We are incredibly shocked and saddened by last night’s incident, and our focus is on supporting the colleague involved and their family,” said Heather Caudle, Chief Nursing Officer at Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, which oversees the Royal Oldham.
Ongoing Investigation and Increased Police Presence
Greater Manchester Police have assured the public that an investigation is underway.
Detective Sergeant Craig Roters stated, “This is a serious incident which has left a woman in a critical condition.
Our thoughts are with her family and colleagues, and we will continue to support them throughout this investigation.”
In response to the attack, police have increased their presence around the hospital to provide reassurance to staff and the community.
While the investigation is still in its early stages, authorities have clarified that they are not currently looking for any other suspects in connection with the incident and do not believe there is a wider threat to the public.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn