A staff member at Letterkenny General Hospital has been suspended following allegations that a child was physically assaulted.
The alleged incident, which happened in recent days, has sparked a full investigation at the hospital.
Health bosses have confirmed to Donegal Daily that an incident is being investigated but are refusing to divulge specific details of the incident.
However it is understood a medic has been suspended after it was alleged that she struck a four year old child.
It is understood the incident was witnessed by one of the child’s parents.
The matter was then reported to hospital management who took immediate action against the medic.
A spokesman for the hospital (part of the West/North Hospitals Group) confirmed it is investigating a “trust in care” incident.
“Letterkenny General Hospital (part of the West/North West Hospitals Group) is investigating a “Trust in care” incident concerning a child who was attending the hospital, accompanied by its parent.
“Letterkenny General Hospital is guided by two policies when dealing with such incidents.
“The “Children First” policy states that the key principles informing best practice are that the welfare of children is of paramount importance and that all personnel and health professionals, irrespective of the position held within the organisation, have a responsibility towards child protection and welfare.”
The spokesman said the “Trust in Care” policy aims to ensure any allegations or complaints against a member of staff are thoroughly investigated.
This policy states that, “at an appropriate stage in the process, management should take whatever protective measures are necessary to ensure that no patient/client or staff member is exposed to unacceptable risk.
“These protective measures are not disciplinary measures and may include putting the staff member off duty with pay pending the outcome of the investigation.”
The spokesman added that in the interests of fairness and to ensure due process, the nature of any investigation is not discussed with third parties not associated with the alleged incident.
A statement from the West/North West Hospitals Group said the matter may be referred to Gardai if appropriate.
“When the results of the investigation are known, appropriate action is taken, up to and including disciplinary action and, where appropriate, the reporting of the incident to external authorities.”
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