A Sydney nurse, who allegedly assaulted and attempted to suffocate an elderly patient with a pillow on Thursday, has been charged with attempting to strangle/suffocate with intent to murder, and assaulting occasioning actual bodily harm.

According to NSW Police, the 50-year-old healthcare worker is accused of assaulting the 80-year-old man whilst on nightshift at the hospital in Bankstown, in South Western Sydney.

NSW Police confirmed they were contacted following reports that a patient had been assaulted by a nurse, and an investigation was then launched. A number of items were seized for forensic testing and, subsequently, a 50-year-old man was arrested upon arrival at the hospital on Eldridge Road at 4pm yesterday.

“He was taken to Bankstown Police Station, where he was charged with attempt to strangle/suffocate with intent to murder, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm,” a force spokesperson said in a statement.

“Police will allege in court that the man pushed a pillow into the face of an 80-year-old man and forcibly held him down before another a staff member intervened.”

The patient also suffered a cut to his arm during the incident, which has been treated, and his health is continuing to be monitored.

Following his arrest, the male nurse was refused bail and is expected to appear before Bankstown Local Court today.