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4w ago

UK A&E Departments Failing to Deliver Time-Critical Medications on Time, Report Finds

RCEM study reveals systemic delays in identifying and administering vital medications, with NHS pledging reforms to address patient safety risks.

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The delivery of time critical medicines is not consistent across emergency departments

Overview

  • Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) report shows over half of patients on time-critical medications (TCM) in A&E are not identified within 30 minutes of arrival.
  • 68% of doses for medications like insulin and levodopa are not administered within 30 minutes of the expected time, heightening risks of severe complications or death.
  • Long A&E waiting times are cited as a key contributor to delays in timely medication delivery, exacerbating systemic inefficiencies in emergency care.
  • The RCEM recommends early identification of patients on TCM, improved systems for timely administration, and clear staff responsibilities to mitigate these risks.
  • The NHS has acknowledged the report's findings and committed to incorporating recommendations into its upcoming urgent and emergency care plan to improve outcomes.