The guidelines of the Midlands Regional Hospital at Tullamore have been undertaken to ensure standardised care for all patients. This department is committed to ensuring patients get the care they deserve, as quickly as is possible in a caring and friendly atmosphere.

It must be born in mind that these guidelines cannot cover all aspects of patient management. For junior staff it is essential that if you are in doubt regarding the management of a patient you seek the help of a more experienced colleague.

This department currently sees approximately 32,000 patients per year. With the continued increase in population of our catchment area this number is expected to increase significantly. It is essential all staff work together as a team to ensure the increased pressures put on the department are dealt with efficiently and effectively. There must be no rigid rules in patient care. Medical staff in the department work as members of an emergency team consisting of doctors, nurses, portering and reception staff. It is inevitable that at busy times all staff will need to support each other.

I hope this booklet is helpful. Suggestions regarding items to be included would be most welcome.