The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has launched an urgent investigation and suspended a nurse with immediate effect after a disturbing video of a patient being assaulted at King Dinuzulu Hospital went viral on social media.
“Completely unacceptable”
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the department said it “noted with serious concern” the footage circulating online which allegedly shows a nurse striking a patient on the face while making inappropriate remarks.
“The Department unequivocally condemns this behavior in the strongest possible terms,” the statement read.
“The conduct displayed in the video is completely unacceptable, violates the core values of our healthcare system, and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
Immediate Action Taken
Health officials confirmed the nurse has been placed on *precautionary suspension* while a full internal investigation is conducted.
The department stressed that corporal punishment has no place in public hospitals.
“We are committed to ensuring that all patients are treated with the dignity, respect, and care they deserve,” it said.
Officials added that the matter is being treated as a priority and that “appropriate disciplinary action” will follow once the probe is concluded.
Public Outrage
The video sparked widespread anger online, with many South Africans calling for stricter oversight and accountability in public healthcare facilities.
King Dinuzulu Hospital, a major psychiatric facility in Durban, has not yet commented separately on the incident.
The KZN Department of Health says it will update the public on the outcome of the investigation.
Watch Video here: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/19aH8jWzCj/
