As demands grow on nurses, Unison has called for further research into the effects it is having on workers’ health and ultimately, patient safety.
Last week (13th April), a member of the union claimed that the way nurses are currently being managed isn’t dissimilar to “slave labour”, with eleven and twelve hour shifts not uncommon amongst workers.
Now, concerns are being raised as to where this leaves the safety of patients.
At Unison’s healthcare conference in Liverpool last week, one member told how staff at a hospital in Staffordshire were expected to work six ‘long’ days each week, a total of 78 hours, the Nursing Times reported.
Adding that there was one nurse she was aware of who had worked a total of 11 consecutive long day shifts, she said: “The fact staff are so tired has a detrimental effect on patient care and (also) puts other staff at risk.
“The potential for accidents to occur is immense. Some of these staff drive miles before and after their shift.”
Fiona Tinsley, Medical Negligence Solicitor at Clear Law, said: “It is really worrying to see these concerns being raised at the Unison conference and the impact that they could be having on the safety of patients.
“There are enormous pressures being placed on those in the nursing profession right now. At Clear Law we back the calls from Unison to address the effects that this could be having on the health of nurses. No matter what, patient safety must remain paramount.”