Early Edition with Kate Hawkesby

Increasing reports of horrendous abuse directed towards staff at emergency departments.  Figures released under the Official Information Act show more than 7,500 reports were logged last year, matching the year before, but up significantly on 2023.  Just over 1000 reports came from emergency departments.  Nurses Society Director David Wills told Ryan Bridge the assaults vary in severity but are all distressing for staff.  He says it's everything from verbal abuse to spitting, biting, pushing, and occasionally sexual assault.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.