RCN comments on review of NHS paperwork

Published: 13 February 2013

RCN comments on review of NHS paperwork
 
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has today (12 February) welcomed the review of paperwork to be carried out by Mike Farrar, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation. Secretary of State for Health Jeremy Hunt announced the review in a speech to the Reform event “The New NHS”.

Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the RCN, said:
“We welcome this much needed review. Our members tell us that they are forced to spend too much time filling in forms, duplicating information and ticking boxes. Many stay late to do this, others are taken away from patient care. An RCN survey in 2012 found that 53% of nurses raised concerns about the duplication of records, a problem which is in danger of getting worse at a time when the system is already stretched. We are pleased that Mike Farrar has been asked to lead this review, and look forward to contributing. 

“While it is essential to monitor care, record vital signs, and follow care plans, we are concerned that the burden is excessive and can be very poorly managed.  By working together to ensure that clinical staff have the tools and systems they need, the NHS can free up nurses and doctors to do what they do best.  No one change will be a silver bullet for improving those parts of the NHS which are facing the greatest challenges. However, if this review can lead to significant action, and to front line staff spending more time with patients, then it will be welcomed by nurses across the NHS.”

Ends

Notes for Editors

1.     For further information, please contact the RCN Media Office on 020 7647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media
 
2.     The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nursing staff and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.