Patient charged with assaulting Waikato Hospital nurse

The nurse was allegedly assaulted by Hamilton man Martin Reid in Waikato Hospital's emergency department last week. Photo / Alan Gibson

A man has been charged with assaulting a nurse at Waikato Hospital.

Hamilton man Martin Reid made a brief appearance in the Hamilton District Court today facing one charge of assaulting a woman on January 9.

The Herald understands the charge relates to an incident involving a nurse in Waikato Hospital's emergency department.

The 57-year-old was remanded on bail for an extended period to allow a report to be done under the Criminal Procedure (Mentally Impaired Persons) Act 2003 as he receives treatment in the Henry Rongomau Bennett Centre.

Conditions of his bail include not to contact the complainant or threaten or use violence against any person.

He will reappear in court at the end of March.

A Waikato DHB spokesperson said they couldn't comment on this specific case.

However, the spokesperson said their staff worked hard every day and worked "sometimes within challenging situations".

"We want a safe environment where people are respected and respectful.

"We encourage our staff to escalate any assault and ensure the police are aware and charges laid where appropriate.

"We also have a strong emphasis on pastoral care – following up with staff, providing and offering debriefing and any support that is needed."