| Topic: | Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:End Of Life Protocol... | |
| Posted by: | Philippa Bond | |
| Date/Time: | 20/02/24 08:28:00 |
| Before the pandemic we had an underfunded, understaffed and overworked NHS woefully unprepared for an expected sometime global pandemic. We still have. Although Nightingale Hospitals were built and equipment eg the many beds procured. There was never enough staff despite the number being brought back out of retirement and long hours of dedicated work by workers including many trainees. Many medical staff lost their lives due to their long and close proximity with very sick patients. Why don't you question the staff to patient ratio especially overnight? Patients need to be turned every so many hours so as not to get bedsores which are very difficult to get rid of and can lead to sepsis. Two staff plus equipment are needed at a time to turn one patient and even more equipment if a patient is very heavy. Special electric mattresses can help but these are expensive, break down and themselves need care and maintenance. Electric cushions and other special cushions together with good hydration and food is also needed to avoid bedsores aka pressure sores ie by keeping the skin healthy. Help to walk safely to the loo requires help as falls are definitely to be avoided especially after anaesthetic as many try and get up too soon or too fast and faint. This takes staff involvement and shows how very important it is to try and stay mobile as long as possible! |