Nurse suspended after video shows alleged patient assault at King Dinuzulu Hospital

A nurse at King Dinuzulu Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal has been placed on immediate precautionary suspension following the viral spread of a video showing her allegedly assaulting a patient. The footage, which circulated on social media, depicts the staff member shouting at, pointing in the face of, and striking a patient while making inappropriate remarks.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health issued a statement unequivocally condemning the behavior, stating that such conduct violates the core values of the healthcare system and will not be tolerated. The department noted that corporal punishment and abuse have zero tolerance in public healthcare facilities.

In response to the incident, political representatives and health advocates have called for further accountability. The Democratic Alliance has indicated it will report the nurse to the South African Nursing Council to address professional ethics and conduct. There are also calls for criminal charges to be pursued if the physical assault is confirmed through internal inquiries.