Physically Asssulted at work

[theview]

I was caring for a detained (ITA) psychiatric patient on a Medical/Stroke unit when he physically assulted me at the nurse station punching me multiple times in the face head then tackling me to the floor where he continued to punch me. I suffered severe whiplash, low back strong and emotional damge. I have still not returned to work due to my injuries and was forced to take a pay cut due to L&I coverage only being 60% of my wages. What kind of protection to Nurses have in situations like this. Multiple request were made to administrtaion regarding this patient before the attack on how dangerous he was and the fear of him attacking staff or patients, request were not attacked upon quickly enough. The patient did get placement into a psychiatric facility the same day of my attack. The attack was witnessed by multiple staff memebers and a surgeon who did not intervene due to lack of training in regards to self defense. Any suggestions on how to further protect myself and coworkers? Or suggestions on recieving my full wages while rehabing?

[edmia, BSN, RN]

I'm sorry this happened!

My state recently passed a bill and it is now a felony to assault a nurse. Not much help for you, but something to push for in the future.

In the immediate, have you filed a police report? I would.

Also file for worker's comp as this was a work related injury and if the hospital and union keep stalling you, consult a lawyer.

It is not OK for nurses to put up with this kind of situation. Being assaulted at work is never a justified thing! Fight back for your right to feel safe at work.

And take time to heal.

Sent from my iPhone using allnurses.com