PSYCHIARTIC NURSES AT UNIVERSITY COLLEGE HOSPITAL GALWAY REFUSE TO GO ON DUTY
10 nurses at an acute psychiatric unit in University College Hospital in Galway have refused to go on duty.
The Psychiatric Nurses Association is citing concerns for patient care and staff safety, and claims there have been 36 assaults on staff at the unit since the start of the year.
In a statement, the PNA says staff shortages mean they have no option but to protest over the situation.
Noel Giblin is the national secretary for the group.
He is demanding the HSE take action, as last night’s staff are still on duty at this stage.
“The night staff from last night that looked after the stations last night have stayed on duty, and are remaining on duty” he said.
“The initial thing that needs to happen here is staff need to be found…the unit needs to be made safe – that has to happen, this morning – but also talks have to happen” he added.
