Nurse awarded 1.6 million compensation after violent patient assault

The 2023 decision in Wilson v Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service [2023] QSC 135 sheds light on the employer's duty of care to its employees and the consequences of failing to meet that duty, particularly in high-pressure environments like healthcare. In this article, we will dissect the facts, findings, and implications of this significant case, which resulted in a worker's compensation common law damages award of over $1.6 million to the injured worker.

Background leading to workplace injury

The plaintiff, a nurse, was working in a highly challenging ward, responsible for caring for patients with cognitive vulnerabilities and aggressive tendencies. On the day of the incident, the plaintiff was informed about a patient, referred to as M, who had a history of violent behaviour, including previous assaults on nurses. On the day of the incident, M's behaviour escalated, and she became increasingly agitated and violent, lunging at hospital staff.