Timely Hospital Discharges Urged To Ease Winter Pressure

The Department of Health has urged the public to support timely hospital discharges to alleviate pressure on the health service, especially during the winter months.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt emphasised the importance of ensuring that those who need urgent hospital care can be treated and admitted promptly. He highlighted that delayed discharges can lead to longer waiting times in emergency departments.

The department is encouraging families and carers to work with healthcare professionals to facilitate timely discharges and support patients' recovery at home.

Minister Nesbitt continued: "We know that staying in hospital when medically fit to leave can lead to complications such as further infections, muscle loss, risk of falls, low mood and confusion. Making informed choices on these options can help ensure the best care for all.

"Put simply, timely discharge from hospital is better for patients and better for our hospitals. "Health and social care staff will continue to do their best to provide hospital care to all those who need it. While our hospitals are under pressure, it is vital that anyone who requires urgent care seeks and receives it."

The Executive Director of Nursing in the South Eastern Trust Dr David Robinson stressed, "Every bed in all of our hospitals is precious. They are needed to treat those who are acutely ill. The vast majority of patients who are waiting a long time in our Emergency Departments, or indeed in ambulances waiting to get into our EDs, are there because they need to be admitted and are waiting for a hospital bed to become available. Patients waiting for planned surgeries may need a bed too, before their procedure can take place.

"Remaining in hospital when you don't need to be there is bad for your health It can leave you more susceptible to infection and can lead to muscle wastage. If you need help at home and it is not immediately available, you may be offered a temporary care home placement or be asked to wait at home with family support until a home care package is sourced. I know this is a big ask, but please be assured that you won't lose your place in any queue for your preferred longer-term option and you will be reducing the risk of complications."