Pests' in Hospitals
Commenting on the Conservative Party’s Freedom of Information request into pest controls in hospitals, the Patients Association said:
Such findings are truly revolting. How can patients be safe amid bed bugs, fleas and rats? Once again safety is just rhetoric and not a reality for patients, particularly the elderly and those with suppressed immunity.
Some of the Trusts listed are famous names. Some are Foundation Trusts with more independence than ever. All are used by patients who assume the Trust Board take such findings seriously.
But what about those Trusts who ignored this Freedom of Information request and said nothing? If these are the standards of those “coming clean” what does it say about those who stayed silent?
Patients have had to fight for information on healthcare acquired infection and now on this – pests and vermin. These findings reveal what happens when money is taken away from where patients expect to see it spent. Where is the proper support for NHS estates and facilities staff? If these hospitals were restaurants they would be closed down and out of business. Trust Boards must get a grip and show patients they are serious about their legal responsibility for safety.
We believe the problems come down to leadership. If the NHS Trust Board isn't effective in its leadership, patients are the first to suffer. The right Board leadership means the right ward leadership whether it is hand washing, pest control or clinical excellence. Leadership is also about speaking out if central targets threaten local patient safety. Titles are meaningless, it is action that counts. The cleaning budget should have the same importance as a clinical one. When Trusts struggle with targets it is too easy to slice away at the non- clinical areas, resulting in quick fixes and stunts.
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For further information please contact Vanessa Bourne 07986 629545 / 0208 423 9111
