The latest report from Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) has shown a bed shortage in Cork University Hospital (CUH) is leading to congestion in its Emergency Department (ED).
Hiqa made the findings when they conducted a risk-based announced inspection of CUH on July 25th and 26th.
The inspection found CUH was particularly challenged by limited availability of suitable beds in the community. which impacted on the ability to transfer patients from the hospital.
This resulted in a number of patients experiencing a delay in their transfer of care and contributed to congestion in CUH’s ED.
The hospital was found to be compliant or substantially compliant with three national standards, partially compliant with six national standards and non-compliant with two national standards assessed during inspection.
At Ennis General Hospital, which was inspected on May 17th and 18th, Hiqa inspectors found the hospital to be compliant or substantially compliant with 10 national standards, and partially compliant on one count.
On the day of inspection, the hospital’s medical assessment unit and local injury unit were functioning well and were compliant with HSE targets related to patient experience times.
In the Mater University Hospital, Hiqa found compliance with three national standards and partial compliance with one national standard.
Patients who spoke with inspectors on the day of the inspection were complimentary about staff, the report added.
The National Maternity Hospital, inspected on May 30th and 31st, was compliant with seven standards, substantially compliant with two standards, and partially compliant with two standards.
However, staff shortfalls were identified across all grades, particularly in nursing and midwifery.
At Tipperary University Hospital, an unannounced inspection found the ED was overcrowded, and noted improvements are needed to provide staff and patients with adequate facilities.
The inspection also found there were a number of vacancies across the majority of disciplines, including consultant posts in emergency medicine and nursing staff.
At St Mary's Hospital in Phoinex Park, Hiqa found the hospital to be compliant with four national standards, substantially compliant with five national standards and partially compliant with two national standards.
However, there were a number of vacancies across all staff disciplines, most evident in health and social care professionals, which inspectors said impacted patient care.
