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A woman is fighting for life after a man allegedly attacked her at the emergency department of a Sydney hospital.
Police were called to Bankstown Hospital and were told two women aged 63 and 58 were grabbed by a patient before they were allegedly assaulted.
The man then confronted and allegedly punched an 80-year-old woman.
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"It's further alleged the man then choked the woman and hit her head against the wall, causing her to lose consciousness.," NSW Police said.
Hospital staff intervened and helped the women.
The man was arrested and once medically cleared, was taken to Bankstown Police Station where he was assisting police with their inquiries.
The older woman remains in hospital in a critical condition.
A Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital spokesperson told 9News three other injured people had been discharged.
"Our social workers are providing support to the patient's family."
The spokesperson said immediate assistance and medical treatment was provided to the patients.
"No staff were injured and staff who witnessed the incident have been offered counselling and support.
"The hospital will continue to check in on these staff members to provide ongoing support as needed.
"Public access to the ED has been maintained and there has been no disruption to patient care or services.
"Police were contacted immediately and are investigating.
"The hospital is assisting the police inquiries and cannot make any further comment."
