HSE probe claims of elder abuse at public hospital

THE HSE is investigating claims elderly patients at a public hospital have been physically assaulted by a member of staff.

The allegation was brought to the attention of health service management under trust in care legislation last week, with the latest alleged incident understood to have occurred earlier this month.

The case involves claims by staff members of multiple physical and verbal assaults against patients at Cherry Orchard Hospital in Ballyfermot, west Dublin. The 166-strong facility mainly caters for elderly patients, many of whom have additional conditions such as dementia.