Machete attack, dislocated jaw: Nurses detail violent incidents at Fraser Health hospital

Two nurses have come forward to share their harrowing experiences of violence while working at Eagle Ridge Hospital (ERH) in Port Moody, B.C. They claim that the Fraser Health Authority (FHA) has failed to provide a safe working environment and has attempted to silence employees who speak out about these issues.

Arden Foley, a veteran nurse with 46 years of experience, has decided not to return to work due to lingering post-traumatic stress from an attack by a patient. On November 20, 2024, Foley was on duty at ERH when a patient who had suffered an overdose violently kicked her in the head, causing a dislocated jaw, concussion, and PTSD. Despite seeking counseling for her trauma, Foley ultimately made the difficult decision to leave her nursing career behind.

Victoria Treacy, another nurse at ERH, was working a night shift in January 2025 when a patient threatened staff with a machete. Treacy called security and helped evacuate patients from the area. She spoke out about the incident to the media, expressing concerns for the safety of her colleagues and patients. However, she claims that she was suspended and placed under investigation by Fraser Health for speaking out.

Treacy’s story, along with many others, has been included in a lawsuit filed against the health authority in the B.C. Supreme Court. The lawsuit alleges that deteriorating work conditions in emergency rooms have led to preventable deaths and a slew of violent incidents against employees. It also claims that Fraser Health has failed to address these issues adequately.

In response to the allegations, Fraser Health stated that they do not comment on matters before the courts. However, they acknowledged the violent incidents at Eagle Ridge Hospital in November 2024 and January 2025, stating that they have since increased security staffing in the Emergency Department and provided additional training for staff.

The BC Nurses’ Union has also voiced concerns about the rise in violent incidents that force their members to take time off work. They represent approximately 50,000 nurses and have seen a 48% increase in claims for nursing staff due to violence since 2016.

Both Foley and Treacy emphasize the urgent need for better safety measures in healthcare settings to protect healthcare workers and patients alike. They hope that by speaking out, they can bring attention to these issues and advocate for change in the healthcare system.