Violence Against Medical Staff at Nowy Targ Emergency Ward

A chaotic night at the Nowy Targ Emergency Department saw a 68-year-old patient assault a paramedic, while a separate intoxicated man threatened medical personnel, leading to further police intervention.

Assaults and threats at the Emergency Department

The first incident involved a 68-year-old patient who allegedly insulted and physically assaulted a paramedic. According to Nowy Targ police, the woman grabbed the paramedic by the arm and used vulgar language; she was not detained due to her health condition but remains under investigation.

Simultaneously, a 34-year-old intoxicated man from the Nowy Targ municipality sparked a disturbance, shouting threats at medical staff. Police subsequently detained the man and issued a fine once he was sober, after a doctor confirmed he did not require hospitalization.

Pattern of hospital violence

These incidents follow a series of attacks at the same facility. On June 27, a 48-year-old man punched a nurse and kicked a paramedic, facing up to three years in prison. In December, a 65-year-old intoxicated man physically assaulted a nurse, with his case currently pending in court.

Legal consequences for attackers

New regulations introduced in January classify attacks on medical staff as offenses against public officials, punishable by up to five years in prison. Aggressive behavior in public spaces like hospitals can result in detention, community service, or fines ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 Polish zloty.