Keep the white blouse in peace.

Information about the extremely serious incident that just occurred at Nghe An Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital has shocked public opinion: an assailant attacked and chased after family members of patients and medical staff; resulting in injuries to 3 medical staff and 2 family members of patients. It is truly shocking that in a place that should only be filled with the bustling footsteps of doctors and nurses, the cries of newborns, and the happy smiles of families, there is now a chaotic cacophony of shouting, struggling, and loss of control.

Previously, numerous similar incidents have occurred: doctors assaulted while providing emergency care to patients; nurses threatened with having their eyes poked out simply for reminding patients' families to follow professional procedures; and countless instances of healthcare workers being attacked right in the middle of hospitals – places that should be the safest. Such stories are not uncommon, not only in Nghe An but throughout the country.

Most incidents stem from moments of anger, unnecessary misunderstandings, and uncontrolled emotions on the part of patients or their families. In the tense moments between life and death, a single uncontrolled word or misinterpreted gesture can become the trigger for a chain of violent actions. Hospitals, which are supposed to be places of healing and where people seek help, are increasingly becoming "hot spots" for violent behavior. The question that needs to be asked is not only the legal responsibility of the attackers, but also why this keeps happening, with increasing frequency and intensity?

Perhaps, in part, this stems from impatience in modern society, where people are accustomed to immediate gratification, are less willing to wait, and easily vent their anger when things don't go their way. In the unique environment of a hospital, where every decision is linked to a life, this tension is even more likely to erupt. Added to this are communication gaps when doctors are overloaded and don't have enough time to explain, while patients' families are in a state of confusion and vulnerability.

However, whatever the cause, violence cannot be the answer. A punch, a kick, a threat… all of these can fracture the foundation of trust between patient and doctor. And when that trust is lost, cooperation in treatment – ​​the core of the medical profession – also falters.

To be fair, the medical profession also has areas that need improvement: service attitudes, communication skills, employee protection mechanisms, and how communication helps the public better understand the unique nature of the profession. However, all adjustments, suggestions, or criticisms must be placed within the framework of civility and the law. Pain or distress cannot be used to justify harming others.

Looking at it from a broader perspective, this phenomenon is not just a story within the medical field. It reflects a decline in behavioral culture, where people easily resort to violence to resolve conflicts, and where trust and mutual respect are gradually eroding. Just as in traffic, in school environments, or on social media, uncontrolled anger always leaves behind consequences that everyone later regrets.

In the medical field, a profession with high emotional risks, there is a pressing need for measures that are both protective and humane. Initially, healthcare facilities need to review their security procedures, such as increasing the number of trained security personnel, providing emergency exits, installing alarm systems, and cameras in sensitive areas. Simultaneously, they should establish transparent communication procedures between medical staff and patients' families to promptly explain, update information, and de-escalate tense situations. Most importantly, trust must be restored between doctors and the community. When both sides listen to each other and understand that they are both on the same side – the side of life – then hospitals will truly return to being places where people seek peace of mind and healing.

Long-term solutions require a societal effort. The media needs to play a constructive role, not only reporting on the incident but also disseminating knowledge about patients' rights and obligations, clarifying medical procedures to reduce confusion and misunderstanding. Education on the law and ethical conduct needs to be more widely integrated into the community so that everyone understands that there are other, more effective ways to handle situations than using violence. Law enforcement agencies need to strictly punish acts of violence against healthcare workers to create a deterrent effect.

Ultimately, at some point, we will all enter a hospital, either as someone needing help or caring for a loved one. And at that time, what we most desire is to feel respected and protected. Therefore, maintaining peace and order in hospitals is not only the responsibility of security guards or police, but a shared responsibility of everyone who enters. Maintaining peace and order in the medical profession also means preserving the compassion within each of us. Let's not allow the wounds of violence to overshadow the sacred meaning of a place that saves lives. Hospitals must be places where life is preserved, not places where trust is wounded.