Infection prevention 'threatened by cuts'

The latest NHS Scotland staff survey showed that only 19% of nurses feel they can meet all conflicting demands on their time and only 18% think there is enough staff to allow them to do their job properly

AN ASSOCIATE director of the Royal College of Nursing has warned that progress made in tackling healthcare associated infections in hospitals in Scotland could come under threat if staffing levels are cut. Ellen Hudson made the comments as the Healthcare Associated Infection Task Force Report for 2008-11 was published. She said the right number of nurses, healthcare support workers and cleaners was 'vital' to preventing infections. She added: "The progress that has been made could be undermined if health boards continue to save money by cutting the number of nurses and other staff they employ. Indeed, the latest NHS Scotland staff survey showed that only 19% of nurses feel they can meet all conflicting demands on their time and only 18% think there is enough staff to allow them to do their job properly, and this survey was carried out before the cuts."