EMT attacked by patient raises concerns about violence against hospital staff
By
Jennifer Mayerle
Investigative Reporter
April 7, 2026
The recent incident at Ridges Hospital in Burnsville, Minnesota, has brought attention to the growing issue of violence against healthcare workers, particularly EMTs and nurses. The attack on EMT Rob Madsen, who was waiting to transfer a patient, highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and awareness in healthcare settings.
In the video footage, a patient on a mental health hold can be seen swinging a bed rail at hospital staff, causing injuries to four people, including Madsen. This incident underscores the vulnerability of healthcare workers and the potential consequences of inadequate precautions.
Madsen's account of the attack is harrowing. He describes being hit in the back of the head with significant force, sustaining a concussion, and requiring brain surgery with 25 staples. The aftermath of the attack has left him with ongoing pain, flashbacks, headaches, nausea, vomiting, coordination issues, and short-term memory loss. This experience highlights the physical and psychological toll that such violence can have on victims.
The attack on Madsen is not an isolated incident. The Minnesota Nurses Association reports that workplace violence is a common issue, ranging from verbal abuse to physical attacks. Nurses, nursing assistants, paramedics, and doctors are all at risk, with nurses having the highest number of workers' compensation claims due to violence-related injuries. The data shows a concerning trend, with a spike in violence-related injuries in 2022 followed by a slight decrease in 2024.
The Minnesota Department of Health's report reveals a disturbing increase in physical assaults against patients and staff resulting in serious injury, rising from one to 16 cases over a decade. This data further emphasizes the growing problem of violence in healthcare settings.
One of the critical factors contributing to this issue is inadequate staffing levels. A survey by the Minnesota Nurses Association found that 86% of nurses who left their positions in 2024 cited staffing shortages as a significant concern. Benjamin Baker, a nurse advocate, argues that the correlation between staffing levels and the ability to de-escalate violent situations is undeniable. As hospitals reduce nursing staff, the risk of violence may increase.
The incident at Ridges Hospital occurred in a locked behavioral health unit, which the hospital claims has made significant investments in safety. However, Madsen's experience suggests that these measures may not be sufficient. The patient had access to the unit and was able to attack Madsen, indicating a need for more comprehensive precautions and awareness.
The attack has sparked a broader conversation about hospital safety and the responsibilities of healthcare facilities and personnel. Madsen emphasizes the importance of being aware of one's surroundings, being diligent, and implementing policies to ensure safety. He calls for a proactive approach to addressing violence in healthcare settings.
The patient who attacked Madsen died in custody, with the cause of death determined to be natural by the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office. This tragic outcome highlights the complex nature of the issue and the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing violence in healthcare.
In response to the incident, the legislature has introduced changes, requiring all hospitals to submit a violence preparedness plan. The Minnesota Nurses Association supports legislation that would establish minimum nurse-to-patient ratios, recognizing the importance of adequate staffing in preventing violence. However, the hospital industry acknowledges that more work is needed to address the broader challenge of behavioral health crises and the strain on emergency departments.
The incident at Ridges Hospital serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved safety measures and awareness in healthcare settings. It highlights the vulnerability of healthcare workers and the potential consequences of inadequate precautions. As the industry continues to grapple with this issue, there is a growing call for comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of violence and ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare professionals.
