Nong Han: A 60-year-old man went crazy and attacked a nurse and staff, claiming that he was afraid of dying and was put on a ventilator. He only came to get asthma medication. He admitted that he was drunk and wanted to apologize to all the nurses and staff.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident occurred at Nong Han Hospital in Udon Thani Province on March 16. The perpetrator, who appeared dejected, has been identified and expressed his remorse for his violent actions. He explained that he initially visited the hospital to obtain asthma medication, but panicked when a nurse placed him on a ventilator, fearing for his life.
The situation escalated in the ICU when the patient, identified as Mr. Thonglee or Uncle Piek, became delirious due to intoxication. He attempted to remove the ventilator, feeding tube, urinary catheter, and IV tube. Despite the nurse’s pleas to keep the equipment intact for his breathing, he physically assaulted three nurses, kicking and stomping on them. It required the intervention of seven officers and security guards to subdue him, eventually necessitating anesthesia.
Mr. Thonglee explained that he had called the rescue team of Phang Ngu Subdistrict Administrative Organization to pick up his medication, but instead, the hospital’s ambulance took him to the ICU. He claimed that he informed the staff his condition was not severe and only needed medication. However, upon being placed on a ventilator, he panicked due to a recent death in his neighborhood under similar circumstances. He confessed to kicking several nurses in the chest and admitted to being drunk, expressing his sincere apologies for his actions which stemmed from miscommunication and fear.
The nurse who sustained injuries explained that Mr. Thonglee had severe asthma, necessitating the use of various medical equipment. Despite their efforts to calm him, the patient resorted to violence, injuring three nurses. While they are recovering, the incident left them swollen and shaken. The nurse emphasized the need for understanding and hopes to prevent such occurrences in the future. The decision to report the incident remains pending with the hospital executives.