Nurse who was stabbed in hospital was attacked by ‘patient angry over wait times’ – ‘It’s shocking!’
A nurse who was stabbed in a “senseless attack” at Royal Oldham Hospital’s A&E department was allegedly attacked by a “patient angry over wait times”.
The victim, a woman in her 50s, suffered serious injuries believed to be “life-changing” during the incident, which occurred around 11.30pm on Saturday.
Police said the attack involved a “sharp instrument” that wasn’t a knife.
A 37-year-old man was immediately arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.
The assault took place in the hospital’s accident and emergency unit, where the nurse was working her shift.
A nurse at the hospital claimed the attack occurred after a patient became angry over waiting times.
“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,” the nurse told the MailOnline.
Another staff member provided additional context about the incident.
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“There was a row with a patient. It just got out of hand but it wasn’t a case of the patient going berserk,” they said.
“It was just a disagreement that can happen late at night. It happens all the time but it’s shocking that the nurse was attacked.”
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
The Royal Oldham Hospital remains open, with all services continuing to operate as normal.
The incident has been described as “distressing and frightening” by officials.
Labour MP Jim McMahon, who represents Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton, expressed shock at the incident.
“We are all shocked at the senseless attack on a nurse in the A&E department of the Royal Oldham Hospital,” he said. “Our thoughts are with the nurse, family and friends as we wish a full recovery.”
Local resident Mike Lawton, 58, shared his dismay at the attack.
“It’s shocking. The nurses work such long hours and then something like this happens,” said the father-of-two.
Heather Caudle, chief nursing officer at Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are incredibly shocked and saddened by last night’s incident and our focus is on supporting the colleague involved and their family.”
The trust added that their thoughts were with colleagues and patients who witnessed the incident.
Detective Sergeant Craig Roters said: “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,” he added.
Greater Manchester Police announced there would be an increased presence around the hospital whilst officers conduct their enquiries.
The enhanced police presence is also intended to offer reassurance to staff and visitors.
Police confirmed they are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with this incident. They added that they do not believe there to be a threat to the wider public.