The Health Service Executive (HSE) has revealed alarming statistics showing that healthcare workers face approximately 100 assaults each month in Irish hospitals, with unions suggesting the actual numbers may be significantly higher.
Recent data from the HSE’s National Incident Management System (Nims) shows 1,210 reported assaults against hospital staff occurred through mid-December, including two incidents classified as “major.” However, healthcare unions are raising concerns that these official figures don’t tell the full story, pointing to potential widespread under-reporting of incidents.
According to The Irish Examiner, the documentation of these attacks through the HSE’s internal reporting system highlights a serious ongoing safety concern for healthcare workers. While the system tracks assaults of varying severity, the presence of two major incidents particularly underscores the serious nature of the violence staff may face.
This revelation comes at a time when healthcare workers are already dealing with significant workplace pressures, adding personal safety concerns to their daily challenges. The disparity between official figures and union estimates suggests a need for improved incident reporting processes and enhanced safety measures to protect hospital staff.