Hospital reveals details of physical attacks on staff – news – Western People

There were 63 assaults and physical attacks on staff at Sligo University Hospital (SUH) between January 2023 and May 2024.

Some of the weapons used include a walking stick, a remote control, bottles of urine and a zimmer frame.

The details were revealed following a question from Sligo Cllr Declan Bree at the HSE West Regional Health Forum last month. It was also confirmed that security reviews are ongoing at the hospital with additional 24/7 security staff now in place.

According to the response, there have been some minor assaults which have been described as mainly unintentional. 

Two people are understood to be before the courts in relation to assaults on a staff member and a patient at the hospital.

Meanwhile, SUH has reintroduced visiting restrictions on several wards due to Covid-19 and Norovirus outbreaks.

A statement issued last week stated that the hospital was dealing with a norovirus outbreak impacting two wards, with Covid-19 impacting two further wards at SUH.

“Given the severe impact of both Covid and norovirus on patients, the hospital is appealing to the public not to visit the site if they have symptoms.

“Visitors are also advised that they must use the alcohol hand gels supplied as they enter and leave the hospital, face masks are available for use throughout the hospital,” said SUH in a statement.

Visiting the affected wards was limited to compassionate grounds only, with arrangements needed in advance with the ward nurse manager.