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A man has been charged after allegedly slashing two security guards and injuring a nurse at a western Sydney hospital as police investigate possible mental health and drug issues.
The background: Police responded late on Friday night to reports a man had attacked several staff members at Westmead Hospital.
The 39-year-old man allegedly slashed two male security guards, aged 24 and 25, and dislocated the shoulder of a third. A 29-year-old nurse, also male, was injured in the attack.
The four are “all fine” with minor injuries that were treated on-site and did not require hospitalisation, a police spokesman said.
Health Services Union NSW has responded to the incident, calling “senseless violence” against hospital staff horrifying.
The key quote: “For the last decade, we have had shootings, stabbings and flesh torn from the bodies of our members. For the workers on the receiving end, the trauma will continue long after the physical scars have healed.” – Gerard Hayes, secretary of the Health Services Union NSW.
What else to know: The man has been charged with five offences. He was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Local Court on Sunday. Police will look at the man’s mental health and drug use history to see whether they contributed to the alleged attack as investigations continue.
What happens next: The union said it will push for greater security numbers and powers at hospitals, and better personal protective equipment.
Readers seeking support with mental health can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. More information is available at .
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