The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has condemned the assault of a senior staff midwife at the Tema Community 22 Polyclinic, calling for urgent measures to protect healthcare workers nationwide.

In a statement signed by its President Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo and General Secretary David Tenkorang Twum, the association described the attack by relatives of a patient as “uncultured, unacceptable, and criminal.”

“No nurse, midwife, or healthcare worker should be subjected to intimidation, threats, harassment, or physical assault in the course of rendering essential services,” the statement said.

The incident has renewed concerns over rising cases of workplace violence in Ghana’s health sector.

GRNMA urged management of the affected facility to immediately strengthen security arrangements, including increased personnel at critical service points, stricter visitor access controls, and rapid response protocols to violent incidents.

It also called for the installation of surveillance systems and regular risk assessments to improve staff safety.

The association appealed to the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health Service, and other health institutions to prioritise staff protection.

It demanded the development and enforcement of a national policy on preventing workplace violence, investment in security infrastructure, and stronger sanctions against offenders.

GRNMA further called on the Ghana Police Service to expedite investigations into the incident and ensure that perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.

“Swift action will not only provide justice for our colleague but also serve as a deterrent,” the statement noted.

The association also urged the government to ratify International Labour Organisation Convention No. 190, which addresses violence and harassment in the workplace.

According to GRNMA, adopting the convention would strengthen protections for healthcare workers and demonstrate Ghana’s commitment to safe working environments.

While acknowledging anger within the profession, GRNMA urged nurses and midwives to remain calm and professional as investigations continue.

“An attack on one nurse or midwife is an attack on the entire profession,” the statement said, reaffirming its commitment to pursuing justice and safeguarding the welfare of its members.