CCTV footage captured a dramatic intervention at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital when a nurse used Jiu-Jitsu techniques to subdue a violent, intoxicated patient.
The incident occurred in 2024 when the patient, after verbally abusing staff and spitting on the floor, was asked to leave the emergency department. When the patient attempted to re-enter and threw several punches, the nurse, Daniel Nelson, responded quickly.
Nelson, a registered nurse with the Australian Army, seized the assailant, flipped him onto the ground and applied a headlock, restraining him until security personnel arrived.
The nurse later explained that the patient’s aggression escalated after being escorted outside, prompting the assault. He emphasized concern for less experienced staff who might lack self‑defence skills.
The video quickly spread online, amassing over 1.5 million views within 24 hours, highlighting the challenges healthcare workers face when confronting violent individuals.
Legal proceedings concluded with the patient pleading guilty to common assault and receiving a $450 fine.
The incident underscores the importance of training and preparedness for medical personnel dealing with unpredictable, aggressive patients.
