Police have arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder after a member of staff at Royal Oldham Hospital was seriously injured in a stabbing. The victim, believed to be a nurse in her 50s, sustained life-changing injuries in the attack which took place at around 11:30 pm GMT on Saturday in the A&E department. Officers believe that she was attacked with a sharp object, but not a knife. The woman is still receiving treatment in hospital, whilst the 37-year-old suspect remains in police custody.
Det Sgt Craig Roters released a statement appealing for information and assured the local community of an increased police presence in the area, adding that the police are “also there to offer reassurance and answer any questions you may have”. Heather Caudle, chief nursing officer at Northern Care Alliance NHS Trust, responded to the incident by saying that the staff were “incredibly shocked and saddened”. They are working with the police and all services at the hospital will remain open.
Jim McMahon, the local MP and minister for local government, also expressed his shock at the “senseless attack” in a social media post. He conveyed his sympathy to the injured staff member, her family, and friends and wished for her full recovery.
The attack on the staff member at Royal Oldham Hospital comes at a time when health care workers continue to face increasing violence and abuse whilst carrying out their duties. It is suggested that tougher legislation and enforcement to protect healthcare workers and to address the growing problem of long-term violence in hospitals is urgently needed
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