Paediatric ward
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5.1.4
Paediatric ward
WHO EMT TECHNICAL INFORMATION
EMTs have systems in place for the safe management of patients admitted to their facility.
While inpatient capacity is only required for Type 2 and 3, Type 1 fixed need to be prepared to take care of patients for an extended period of time while referral is being arranged. Medical supervision must be available 24/7, either on the wards or through an on-call system. Staff must have relevant training and experience for their assigned function, such as paediatric nurses allocated to paediatric patients.
WHO EMT MINIMUM TECHNICAL STANDARD
- Type 1 fixed must ensure basic nursing care with capacity to observe/care for patients while arranging referral.
- Process established for selecting patients for admission and regular
follow up of their status including mechanisms to promptly detect deteriorating patients. - Systems in place for structured shift handover and multidisciplinary ward rounds.
- Ensure information flow to patients and relatives including timely notification about readiness for discharge from facility.
- Train patients, family members or caregivers in tasks they might need to take on.
- Protocols for transfer and referral of patients that need a higher level of care, specialist or follow-up/long-term care. Provide documented discharge planning and follow-up care.
- Hand out a discharge document/copy of patient record to the patient.
- Assist with arranging transport, follow-up care if necessary, access to medication provided, rehabilitation, wheelchairs or crutches or other aids as needed.
- Ensure visiting arrangements, if needed, with adapted agreements for paediatric or intensive care patients.
WHO EMT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR OPTIMAL PATIENT CARE
! 1. Minimum nurse–patient ratio of 1 : 8 in every shift
! 2. Minimum doctor–nurse ratio of 1 : 3
! 3. Type 1 Fixed: at least three doctors trained in emergency and primary care
! This symbol refers to minimum requirements for international deployments in particular for teams seeking global classification status.