New York state Assemblyman Michael Kearns called for an investigation into the safety of the Buffalo Psychiatric Center — New York State Office of Mental Health on Sunday after a nurse at the facility was attacked and knocked unconscious by a patient Saturday night, according to a report from WIVB.
"I am requesting that an investigation be done on what is happening for the safety of that person," Mr. Kearns told WIVB.
The attack has stoked a years' long debate regarding the closure of Western New York Children's Psychiatric Center in West Seneca. If the children's psychiatric center does close, child mental health patients would instead be sent to the adult center in Buffalo.
"The adults don't want any part of the kids moving in here, they're losing space, they're losing freedom," said David Chudy, coordinator of the Save our WNY Children's Psychiatric Center Coalition, according to the report. "This is just the most horrific idea and why we're still standing here after four years trying to convince the governor and mental health commissioner this is a bad idea, is beyond all of us."
Gov. Andrew Cuomo first proposed closing the children's psychiatric center four years ago, according to The Buffalo News. The state budget currently in the legislature includes funds for moving patients from Buffalo to West Seneca.
Mr. Kearns has filed a measure to prohibit the closure of the children's psychiatric center.
The condition of the nurse has not been reported at this time.
In a statement emailed to Becker's Hospital Review, the New York State Office of Mental Health said, "The Office of Mental Health's first priority is the safety and security of the individuals we serve and the staff that work to serve them. Injuries to individuals or staff are taken very seriously and are thoroughly investigated."
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