Psychiatric nurses stretched too thin due to lack of resources

The Psychiatric Nurses Association is calling on the Government to recognise the needs of mental health services, particularly at UCHG.

Staff at the acute psychiatric unit will stage a demonstration at lunchtime today in protest against what they're describing as inadequate staffing levels at the 45 bed unit.

Des Kavanagh, General Secretary of the PNA, said nurses at UCHG's acute psychiatric unit cannot perform their duties as a result of staff shortages.

"There is risk in terms of the professional status of the nurses, who are saying … on a daily basis that they are fearful they cannot do what they are required to do.

"We need continuing care beds and we need intensive care rehabilitation beds as well."