Docs bracing for onslaught
DOCTORS and nurses at Townsville’s second emergency department are bracing for a busy Christmas period.
Mater ED director Dr Philip Gaudin said Christmas was an extremely busy time in emergency departments throughout Australia, with Boxing Day traditionally one of the busiest days of the year.
“Emergency departments see a lot of broken bones from children testing out new bikes, trampolines and skateboards over Christmas,” he said. “For adults, it was lacerations, dehydration and food poisoning.
“Overindulgence in food and alcohol over Christmas can cause a range of medical issues that can ultimately end up with a trip to the hospital.”
Dr Gaudin said the important message over Christmas was to keep hydrated, eat and drink in moderation and make sure children were supervised when trying out new toys. The Mater emergency department opened on September 25.
“People now have a front door to the Mater Hospital and access to leading specialists which is something the community has been wanting,’’ Dr Gaudin said.
He said the Mater ED complemented the work at the Townsville Hospital’s emergency department.
“It is about the improvement of health services to Townsville people and the relationship between the Mater ED and the Townsville Hospital ED is a good one and we look to continue that relationship,” he said.
Between 25 to 35 patients a day have presented to the Pimlico- based ED, with an average of five admissions into the Mater Hospital.
“The feedback we have been receiving has been very positive with people appreciating having an alternative choice in an emergency,” he said.
Dr Gaudin said that since the facility opened presentations to the ED had been broad, ranging from serious medical conditions and sporting injuries to parents with a sick child.
“When your children are unwell, you want to be seen immediately and you want to know that you are in a safe environment ... and that’s what we offer at the Mater ED,” he said.