Patient attacks 3 health-care workers at Halifax ER
Three employees at the Halifax Infirmary hospital have been injured by a patient, with two of them being stabbed, as reported by sources. The Halifax Regional Police were alerted to the hospital, which is the largest in the region, at around 1 p.m. due to a weapons complaint. The patient responsible for the attacks has been taken into custody.
An email sent to the hospital staff by Nova Scotia Health CEO Karen Oldfield expressed the shock and concern over the incident, stating that three individuals were harmed by the patient in the emergency department. Health Minister Michelle Thompson also acknowledged the seriousness of the situation in a statement, assuring the public that the threat has been contained.
During an online news conference, Thompson praised the quick response and bravery of the staff at the Halifax Infirmary emergency department. She commended them for their actions in activating help and providing care to their injured colleagues in such a challenging and unexpected situation.
The Minister confirmed that the patient was armed during the attack, although specific details about the weapon used were not disclosed. As a result of the incident, the emergency department is currently only accepting patients with life-threatening emergencies. Thompson mentioned that it is uncertain when the department will resume normal operations as the area is now considered a crime scene, requiring law enforcement to conduct their investigation.
The safety and well-being of both patients and staff at the Halifax Infirmary remain a top priority as authorities work to ensure a swift and thorough resolution to the unfortunate events that transpired.
