"Violence and Agression"

I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding a distressing incident that occurred in the Emergency Department (ED) on October 1st, which left me feeling extremely unsafe and traumatized.

While I was in the ED with my newborn, who had high temperatures and was hospitalized for four days, a patient exhibited violent and threatening behavior, verbally assaulting staff and making alarming statements, including threats of violence towards both staff and patients. Despite the nursing team’s efforts to manage the situation, the atmosphere was chaotic and frightening.

I witnessed the fear in the nurses’ eyes, and some felt compelled to seek safety, which heightened my own anxiety. I felt particularly vulnerable while holding my two-week-old baby, crouched in the corner of my cubicle. My sister had to barricade the door out of fear that the patient might enter our room or smash the glass, as he had already shattered glass at the nurses’ station during the incident.

The patient claimed to have a history of mental health issues and expressed feelings of abandonment, yet his aggression left both patients and staff feeling threatened. At one point, a nurse attempted to enter our room but was advised by the attending nurse to shut the door, as the patient was right outside, causing further distress. Through the small part of window I could see out of, we observed a female police officer standing ready with her taser, which added to our stress in that moment.

I want to commend Nurse Jess for her exceptional care; although she briefly left to address the situation outside our door, she continuously checked in on us and provided reassurance. I could hear Jess skillfully de-escalating the situation with the patient, and I was impressed by her professionalism. I would also like to thank Kim from the children’s unit, who was there to console me during my moments of fear and distress.

This incident has not only traumatized me but has also made me hesitant to return to the ED—a place where I should feel secure, especially with my family. I am deeply concerned for the safety of both patients and staff in such an environment, particularly given that I have family members who work in this department.

I urge you to investigate this matter seriously and implement appropriate measures to ensure the safety of everyone in the ED. It is crucial that both patients and healthcare workers feel safe and supported.

Thank you for your attention to this serious issue.