10 Apr 2025
An investigation into the sexual assault of a Townsville University Hospital nurse has found some clinical staff view unsafe patient behaviours as “just part of the job”. When the nurse was assaulted by a patient, who was known for “verbal and physical aggression”, there was no clear procedure for staff to follow. The investigation was launched in August 2024 after the nurse was sexually assaulted on the ward. The patient was allowed to remain on the ward and was not moved until they allegedly assaulted the family member of another patient.
Health, Safety, and Wellbeing of workers, patients and visitors is mandated within a workplace under the WHS Act 2011 (Qld). Healthcare Security and Risk can provide expert advise with identifying at risk behaviours and offer opportunities to ensure staff, patient and visitor safety. These situations are highly complex and require a multifaceted approach to provide timely, workable and effective solutions.
Townsville health service changes incident response policy after nurse assaulted – ABC News