Attacks on NHS staff higher than previously thought
Staff absence in the NHS in Scotland is higher than previously thought with the average worker taking an estimated 11.7 days off sick a year.
Violence and aggression is said to be the major reason for staff calling in sick, according to figures compiled by ISD Scotland.
Unions and opposition politicians are calling for urgent measures to protect staff.
Royal College of Nursing Scotland director James Kennedy said: 'It should be a fundamental right of all NHS staff to work in a safe and healthy environment'.