The HSE has defended the use of non-critical care nurses in intensive care units (ICUs) saying it is "better than the alternative". The Herald yesterday reported on the concerns of senior ICU medics that non-specialist staff were being deployed to help the most critically ill patients. Dr Enda O'Connor, director of ICU in St James's Hospital said he was happy to have the staff - who have been given training in the core aspects of ICU care - but they are "working outside their comfort zones". At the Mater Hospital, Serena O'Brien, clinical nurse manager in critical care, hospital said the situation is "scary". But he said the development of that capacity with redeployed staff "enables us to provide care".

Source: The Herald January 15, 2021 02:33 UTC