Mental Health Tech Attacked by Patient at West Palm Beach Hospital
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — A mental health technician was attacked at HCA Florida JFK North Hospital in West Palm Beach while attempting to assist a patient in the Psych Intake area.
The West Palm Beach Police Department (WPBPD) reported that an off-duty officer responded to the hospital on Tuesday following an ‘ER Radio call’ about an unruly patient. Upon arrival, the officer learned the patient was being held in a quiet room due to violent behavior. Medical staff indicated the unclothed patient was acting aggressively, verbally and physically.
The report stated that when medical staff informed the patient they needed to enter the room to administer medication, the patient attempted to remove a thermostat from the wall to use as a weapon.
According to officials, the Mental Health Technician, along with the WPBPD officer, created a barrier between the staff and patient. At this point, the patient began using racial slurs toward the technician and then punched the professional. In self-defense, the technician struck back. The officer then intervened and subdued the patient, allowing nurses to administer the medication.
Both the Mental Health Technician and the patient sustained injuries, with visible blood on their noses. The patient now faces charges of battery against specified personnel.
