Trust employs more A&E nurses after watchdog investigation

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Mid Staffordshire NHS Trust has drafted in extra nurses following a Healthcare Commission investigation into the high mortality rate at Stafford Hospital. 

The commission stated that the trust had responded positively to concerns about patient safety on the A&E department by increasing the number of nurses.

However the hospital still fails to meet the required staff levels outlined by the College of Emergency Medicine and will have to continue its recruitment drive to reduce its reliance on temporary and junior staff.

Investigators also expressed concerns that there was a lack of clear leadership among nurses in the A&E department and the trust has addressed this issue by appointing a matron.

Nigel Ellis, head of investigations at the commission, has commended the trust for taking assertive action to tackle the problems but warned against complacency. He said: 'The trust now needs to make sure that it maintains appropriate staffing levels in all areas.'
 
The investigation, which began in March, is ongoing and will continue to examine other aspects of emergency care, including the care and treatment provided.