A man who police say was from Greenville was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and attempted murder after an alleged stabbing at Heywood Hospital in Gardner, Mass.

According to a joint release from the hospital and the Gardner Police Department, police officers responded to the hospital at approximately 8 p.m. Monday for a reported stabbing of a member of the hospital’s nursing staff in the emergency department. The alleged victim was transported to UMass in Worcester for treatment.

The suspect, David Nichols Sr., 76, who police stated is from 88 Laurel Drive, Apt. 2, in Greenville, was arrested at the scene and held on $10,000 cash bail prior to arraignment in Gardner District Court.

According to the release, the hospital is partnering with local police departments to enhance security in the emergency department. In addition to the adoption of a zero-tolerance policy, expanded screening protocols are being assessed to ensure the safety of caregivers and patients.

“The Heywood staff are second to none. Last night they demonstrated teamwork, compassion, cohesiveness and dedication to each other and to our community. Our primary responsibility as leaders is to take care of our staff, and we do not take this responsibility lightly.” Rozanna Penney, CEO of Heywood Healthcare, stated Tuesday.