‘We shouldn’t have to beg’: Doctor pleaded for help to staff hospitals

A doctor pleaded for help with staffing hospitals that were on the verge of being of being overwhelmed by covid cases.

Dr Dave Jones shared a message from Cardiff and Vale University Health Board because of a shortage of staff in Intensive Care Units, saying “we shouldn’t have to beg for help like this”.

The call to action was met and the health board has now taken down the tweet where it asked for help and said that the situation had “improved”.

Dr Jones, a Clinical Director in Intensive Care, said: “Every ITU, in every hospital in South Wales needs as much support as we can get right now.

“If you have any background in ITU at all, if you have anything that can help our patients, please let us know. Sign up to an agency and pick up the shifts available if necessary.

“We shouldn’t have to beg for help like this, but we are.”

 

‘Improved’ 

After the call to action was answered, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board said: “Critical care unit remains extremely busy due to Covid-19 and winter pressures. Staffing has been challenging however the position has improved within the last 24 hours.

“The unit remains open. Thank you to everyone who has contacted us with offers of support.

“We have now taken down the call for support so there is no need to call us. Thank you.”

Dr Matt Morgan added: “Huge thanks for the amazing response for volunteers. I’ve removed the tweet for now as tricky to deal with the amazing response. Thank you all!”