A recent surge in violence at the Evangelico Betania Hospital in Naples has left healthcare workers in a state of fear and frustration.

The latest incident involved a patient, under the influence of alcohol and drugs, who attacked a nurse and a security guard.

This marks over 15 assaults since the start of the year, prompting the hospital's director, Vincenzo Bottino, to declare the situation as a 'state of war.

' Despite efforts to enhance security, including plans for reinforced doors, the staff's safety remains at risk.

Bottino has urgently requested police presence at the hospital, echoing the sentiments of Teresa Rea, head of the Naples Nursing Association, who stated that healthcare workers are at their breaking point.

The ongoing violence has led some staff to seek transfers to other departments, highlighting the dire need for immediate intervention.