The ED is a busy place and we would ask patients and all visitors to follow these guidelines during their time in the Dept:
- The staff fully appreciate that the ED can be a stressful and anxious place for patients and their families however we would ask that you treat the staff with respect. Verbal abuse, violence or aggression to staff or other patients will not be tolerated and the patient and/or family members may be asked to leave
- Please be mindful that the ED is a treatment area for sick patients
- Please do not leave valuable items unattended, if you are being admitted to hospital please ensure any valuables are sent home with family/friend
- The use of mobile phones is restricted in the ED. If you are in an area where you are allowed to have your mobile turned on we would respectfully ask that it is turned on to silent mode so it does not disrupt other patients
- The ED has very ill and vulnerable patients- please do not visit or accompany a patient if you have flu, vomiting and/or diarrhoea in the previous two days
- Pastoral care is available upon request in the ED please speak to a nurse if this is something you require
Our Emergency Department has implemented innovative strategies to support the patient experience. Central to this initiative is the development of comprehensive guidelines for staff, equipping them with the necessary tools to effectively communicate with patients who identify as neurodivergent. These guidelines encompass a range of communication strategies tailored to individual needs, fostering a supportive and understanding environment from the moment patients enter the ED.
The Hospital is steadfast in its commitment to advancing neurodiversity-friendly practices. By prioritising education, training, and ongoing evaluation, the Hospital aims to continually refine its approach and ensure that every patient receives the compassionate and inclusive care they deserve. One significant step taken by the ED is the establishment of a dedicated sensory room. Sensory challenges, such as sensitivity to light and noise, can exacerbate stress and anxiety for neurodivergent individuals in busy ED environments. The sensory room provides a calming space, offering a respite from overwhelming stimuli and promoting relaxation. This innovative approach not only demonstrates a commitment to accommodating diverse sensory needs but also underscores the Hospital's dedication to enhancing the overall patient experience. You can read more about it here.
Breastfeeding
The Hospital is committed to supporting breastfeeding. We have an established breastfeeding support committee with representatives from breastfeeding support agencies. We recognise that there can be challenges associated with maintaining optimal breastfeeding when the mother attends the ED or is admitted to one of the clinical areas.
The ED has staff members who are knowledgeable about the issues impacting breastfeeding in an acute hospital. We encourage you to let staff know as soon as possible if you are currently breastfeeding. If it is not possible for your baby to stay with you, we encourage family members to bring the baby in for frequent short visits to breastfeed if it is safe to do so. We also have access to a breast pump if required. You may also find the information linked below useful.
Breastfeeding a good start in life
Use of medicines in breastfeeding women
Information on breastfeeding from Children's Health Ireland
