LOXAHATCHEE, Fla. – New details emerged on Wednesday regarding the brutal assault on a nurse by a patient at HCA Palms West Hospital, leaving her in critical condition. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office announced that Stephen Eric Scantlebury, 33, has been charged with attempted second-degree murder following the violent incident on February 18 at the hospital on Southern Boulevard.
According to witnesses, Scantlebury, who was placed under a Baker Act hold, attacked the nurse by repeatedly striking her in the face while she attended to him. The nurse suffered severe injuries, including multiple facial fractures and a high risk of losing vision in both eyes. Due to the critical condition of the nurse, she was airlifted to St. Mary’s Medical Center Trauma Center in West Palm Beach for immediate medical care.
Footage from the hospital’s camera system captured the attack, showcasing the urgency and severity of the situation as hospital staff members tried to intervene. Scantlebury was detained outside the hospital after the incident and taken into custody by authorities.
HCA Florida Healthcare released a statement expressing concern for the injured nurse and showing support for their staff during this difficult time. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office commended the swift response of law enforcement and pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
The assault has raised questions about the circumstances that led to a Baker Act patient being at Palms West, as the hospital is not designated as a receiving facility for Baker Act holds in Palm Beach County. Mental health advocates and legal experts have expressed concerns over the lack of proper facilities and resources for individuals with mental health issues in the county.
Workplace violence in hospitals has also come under scrutiny, with healthcare workers facing increasing risks of assault from patients. Experts emphasize the importance of specialized training and proper protocols to handle potentially volatile situations involving mentally unstable individuals in healthcare settings.
As the investigation into the assault continues, authorities are exploring the circumstances that led to the tragic incident at HCA Palms West Hospital. The case has highlighted the need for improved mental health resources and better training for healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of both patients and staff.