Punching Incident Leads to Arrest of Patient’s Relative – Latest News from Turkey
Violence in Healthcare: Patient’s Relative Arrested for Assaulting Doctor
Cases of violence in healthcare continue to be reported, with the latest incident occurring at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine Hospital. Nazife K., a cancer patient being treated in the internal intensive care unit, tragically passed away on February 6 due to multiple organ failure. However, the aftermath of her death was marred by an act of violence.
BBÖ., an assistant doctor in the service, was attacked by the patient’s son, Volkan K., as she attempted to inform him about filling out the death certificates. Volkan K. reportedly assaulted the doctor with his fist, prompting the hospital management to call for a ‘white code’ and involve the police. It was revealed that Volkan K. had a high alcohol content of 1.30 promil during the altercation.
Following the incident, Volkan K. was sentenced to house arrest by the judge, but the Edirne Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office objected to this decision. As a result, Volkan K. was detained once again. Furthermore, he was later arrested after being put on duty as a judge.
In response to this violent act, the Edirne Medical Chamber organized a protest in front of the hospital. Chamber president Prof. Dr. Gürcan Altun condemned the attack on their colleague and expressed their close monitoring of the administrative process in the wake of this incident.
The assault on the healthcare professional has sparked outrage and concern among doctors and healthcare professionals, highlighting the need for greater protection for medical staff in such situations. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of violence in healthcare facilities, prompting a collective call for more stringent measures to safeguard those working in the healthcare sector.
