The Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) and the College of Emergency Nursing Australasia (CENA) said that keeping safety top-of-mind during the festive season will help to prevent common accidents and injuries which can lead to long waits in overcrowded EDs.
ACEM President Dr Peter Allely said that EDs see a dramatic rise in avoidable presentations over the summer holidays every year.
“Hospital EDs and staff are facing extreme pressures this festive season as we contend with providing urgent care for record numbers of people presenting to the ED,” Dr Allely said. “EDs are always open, but we need the public’s help to keep beds free for those who need them, including taking a safety-first approach to the festive season.
“It’s important to take extra care when participating in activities with extra risk such as drinking alcohol, playing sport and leisure activities, especially around water, and doing DIY, particularly where ladders are used.
“The holiday season is a time for celebration, but please take extra care to make the best choices to ensure you and your family stay safe.
“Fortunately, there’s been increased investment and expansion in recent years to boost health care options for non-emergencies, such as urgent care centres, general practices, after hours clinics, telehealth, or pharmacies. We encourage people with non-urgent issues to seek alternative health services which can provide more timely care.”
Options for non-emergency care:
Aotearoa New Zealand | Australian Capital Territory | New South Wales | Northern Territory | Queensland | South Australia | Tasmania | Victoria | Western Australia
While these other care pathways have helped to reduce low-acuity presentations to EDs, Dr Allely said that the biggest pressure point for EDs is the year-on-year rise in the number of very ill patients presenting to EDs, who require hospital admission.
“The pressure on our EDs remains immense which is why we continue to strongly advocate for more funding to boost hospital capacity and beds, as well as community-based support such as residential aged care beds so patients can be safely discharged from the hospital,” he said.
CENA President Associate Professor Kelli Innes said “While it is important for people to enjoy celebrations during the holiday season, remember to be mindful of your health and safety, protect yourself from the sun, stay hydrated and be aware of your surroundings.”
“The College would also like to acknowledge all health care workers who are continuing to provide care over this time. A reminder that all emergency department staff are working to provide high, quality care in a safe and timely manner, so be kind and treat everyone with respect,” Assoc. Prof. Innes said.
Dr Allely said that despite long ED waits leading to frustration for patients and their carers, there is no excuse for aggression or violence in the ED.
“Please be patient and know that the ED team is doing their best, and you will be looked after. ED clinicians are committed to supporting everyone who walk through the door,” Dr Allely said. “Hospitals need to be a safe space for healing where the ED team can be focused on providing the care our communities need.”
Background:
The Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) is the peak body for emergency medicine in Australia and New Zealand, responsible for training emergency physicians and advancement of professional standards.
The College of Emergency Nursing Australasia (CENA) is the peak professional association representing emergency nurses across Australia and internationally.
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