Two senior nurses at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, Charlotte Gallivan and Joanne Fowler, have given a candid account of their experiences working in the hospital’s A&E department, likening it to being in a war zone or a third-world country. They shared their concerns with health leaders, highlighting the immense pressure they are under and the challenges they face on a daily basis.
Ms Gallivan revealed that there is not a single shift where a staff nurse doesn’t end up in tears due to the overwhelming circumstances they encounter. With an average of 242 emergency admissions per day in December, the A&E department is stretched to its limits, leaving nurses feeling unable to provide the level of care they desire for their patients. The increasing instances of verbal abuse from patients and their relatives have added to the already difficult working conditions.
The senior nurses described situations where patients were crammed into inappropriate areas of the department, compromising infection control measures. They were often forced to make difficult decisions about prioritising care for acutely unwell patients, leading to instances where patients were left in serious danger due to the lack of resources and staff.
Staffing shortages have become a daily struggle, with the waiting room now being used as a clinical area, further adding to the chaotic environment in the A&E department. Ms Fowler highlighted the challenges of managing very unwell patients with limited support, as experienced colleagues left for other roles, leaving gaps that are hard to fill.
Despite the overwhelming difficulties they face, the nurses also shared positive feedback about their colleagues and the rewarding nature of their work. They praised the teamwork and dedication of the staff, emphasising the importance of their supportive environment in facing the challenging circumstances in the A&E department.
During a meeting with health board members, concerns were raised about the need for more highly-trained staff, additional resources such as a housekeeper to assist with patient care, and improvements in the overall capacity of the emergency department. The health board acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and pledged to take action to address the issues raised by the nurses.
Plans for a potential redevelopment of the emergency department, estimated to cost between £20m to £30m, are in progress as a long-term solution to improve the working conditions for staff and the quality of care for patients. Health board officials highlighted the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for staff to ensure the delivery of high-quality healthcare services in the future.
The challenges faced by nurses at Morriston Hospital shed light on the broader issues within the healthcare system, particularly the strain on emergency services and the need for increased support and resources to cope with the growing demands. The dedication and resilience of healthcare professionals in the face of such challenges are commendable and demonstrate the vital role they play in providing essential care to patients in need.