By Mackenna Moralez, Associate Editor

A Massachusetts hospital is implementing new security measures after a nurse was violently stabbed by a patient in the emergency department. 

David Nichols was charged with attempted murder and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.  According to CBS News, prosecutors said the nurse went to adjust something when Nichols allegedly grabbed her by the arm and stabbed her in the neck with a pocket knife. The nurse was taken to UMass Memorial Medical center for treatment. 

Nichols was arraigned from his bed at Heywood Hospital, where the incident took place, as he is undergoing treatment for lung cancer. CBS News reports that Nichols has been under hospice care and has been told he only has six months left to live.  

"The Heywood staff are second to none," Heywood Healthcare CEO Rozanna Penney said in a statement. "Last night they demonstrated teamwork, compassion, cohesiveness and dedication to each other and to our community. Our primary responsibility as leaders is to take care of our staff, and we do not take this responsibility lightly." 

In the days since the incident, Heywood Healthcare has implemented new security measures within its facility to better combat violence acts against its employees.  Patients should expect the following safety protocols: 

• All Patients entering the Emergency Departments will be Screened via a security wand 
• Patients entering the ED Treatment area will be provided a gown and personal items will be placed in a safe place 
• Temporarily Visitation is Suspended in the Emergency Department (exceptions include caregivers, parents of minors, healthcare proxies, also subject to screening) Restricted visitation will continue until more permanent safety infrastructure is in place. 

Mackenna Moralez is the associate editor of the facilities market.