'Exhausted' workers in Palmerston North mental health ward facing risk of assault every day
Staff at Palmerston North Hospital's mental health ward are facing frequent assaults, with reports indicating dozens of incidents per month. Concerns have been raised by families and coroners regarding inadequate staffing levels contributing to both patient and staff safety risks.
Why it matters
It highlights the critical intersection of mental health service funding, workplace safety, and patient care standards in public healthcare systems.
Palmerston North Hospital's new mental health ward, Ngā Wai Ngāro. Photo: RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham
The report relies on official data and statements from affected parties, maintaining a balanced focus on the systemic issue.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in