21/08/2015

Concerns Over 'Unsafe Care Environment' At Cork University Hospital

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) has raised concerns over an "unsafe care environment" in a number of wards at Cork University Hospital (CUH).

Senior management at CUH confirmed last week that there are currently 78 nursing posts vacant in the hospital. Despite this, the hospital is operating at almost full capacity.

The INMO raised the issues with management in June 2015. Since then, little or no progress has been made to improve staffing levels or provide adequate support to nursing staff, it has been claimed.

Speaking on the issue, INMO Industrial Relations Officer, Mary Rose Carroll said: "Our members have heightened their concerns and notified management of the daily challenge to provide safe and effective care as a result of inadequate staffing levels. This is unacceptable to the members we represent.

"The INMO is seeking that the Hospital Group prioritise staffing at CUH and formulate an immediate action plan to address the serious risk to patients.

"In the interests of patient safety and to minimise risk, the INMO believes services should be curtailed and beds closed until adequate staff are available to provide safe effective care."

(MH/JP)

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