The Barbados Nurses Association (BNA) unequivocally condemns any act of violence against health care professionals. The alleged assault of a nurse on duty at the Randal Phillips Polyclinic in Oistins, Christ Church— reportedly by a parent during a heated dispute over a child’s vaccination — is deeply troubling and unacceptable.
This is not merely an attack on one nurse. It is a threat to the safety, dignity, and professional integrity of nurses across Barbados. A series of attacks that have occurred this year. These are threats that transcend membership and strike at the heart of nursing itself, particularly the vulnerability of female nurses who serve on the front lines of care.
BNA extends our full support to the nurse involved, her colleagues, and all staff impacted by this traumatic event. Their safety and well-being are paramount. Nurses are pillars of our health care system. They deserve respect, protection, and a safe environment to carry out their duties.
The BNA welcomes the investigation by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and calls for stiff penalties for acts of battery against health care professionals. Violence must never be normalised in our clinical spaces.
In response to this incident and the troubling pattern of aggression toward female nurses, the BNA is advancing the following strategic actions:
- Renewed call for panic buttons at all health care institutions, as previously advocated, to ensure immediate response in emergencies and safeguard staff.
- Collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to review and strengthen security protocols across polyclinics and hospitals.
- Support for trauma-informed care and counselling for affected staff, recognising the emotional toll of workplace violence.
- Public education campaign to promote respectful engagement with health care workers and reinforce the importance of civility in clinical settings.
The Barbados Nurses Association reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defend our members and the nursing profession across Barbados. (PR)
