NL Health Services is providing more information on a violent incident at the Health Sciences last week first brought to light by the Registered Nurses Union.

RNU President Yvette Coffey says equipment and furniture were flying after a patient became violent in the triage area of the Health Sciences. The health authority says a Code White – issued in a violent situation – was called on the evening of Monday, May 5.

NLHS say no patients or staff were injured, but those in the immediate area moved to an adjacent triage space while they awaited response from security and the RNC.

The RNU says the incident effectively shut down the ER for an 18-hour period, but the health authority says the ER remained open and operational throughout the event, and there was no impact on availability of services.

NLHS says one triage area was damaged, but was promptly cleaned and secured shortly after the incident, and replacement equipment was brought in.

The triage area was fully restored and functional by noon the following day according to the health authority.

Patients or family members who wish to share their feedback or who have concerns are asked to contact NL Health Services’ Patient Relations Office.