RCN calls for better co-ordination of trauma networks

Published: 05 February 2010

The Royal College of Nursing describes trauma care in England as ‘disappointing’ and calls for all health care staff to have access to the right training to deal with serious injuries.

The comments come in response to today’s publication of a National Audit Office (NAO) report – Major trauma care in England. The report finds that there is unacceptable variation in major trauma care in England depending upon where and when people are treated.

Dr Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, says:

“It is disappointing that trauma care is still not up to scratch in many areas despite numerous calls for improvement. It is well-known that specialist centres offer the best chance of recovery to trauma patients. However, by simply improving communication and co-operation between hospitals, survival rates would be boosted.

“To give trauma patients the best chance of survival, it is important that all nurses and health care staff, including those who do not specialise in trauma, have the training and skills to deal with serious injuries should the need arise.”

The NAO report recommends that trauma care should be led by consultants experienced in major trauma with improved access to critical care beds and rehabilitation services.