NHS crisis causes concern among employees, including Malayalees in UK

LONDON Jan 18: As winter sets in, the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK is experiencing a significant surge in patient numbers, putting immense pressure on nurses who are struggling to provide adequate care for all. The recent stabbing of a Malayali nurse by a patient has brought the plight of healthcare workers into the spotlight.
The current situation mirrors the strain experienced during the Covid crisis, with patients often receiving suboptimal treatment due to overwhelmed staff and resources. Hospitals are also grappling with infrastructure issues exacerbated by harsh weather conditions, leading to long waits and inadequate care even for emergency cases.

Employees across the NHS, not just nurses, are bearing the brunt of increased patient loads. Waiting areas, including car parks, are filled with patients of all ages, including children, the elderly, and expectant mothers, leading to heightened tensions and occasional outbursts from patients. The dire circumstances have compelled hospitals to care for patients in corridors, with authorities describing the situation as deplorable.

The case of 57-year-old Malayali nurse Achamma Cheriyan, who was stabbed by a 37-year-old patient with scissors, underscores the risks faced by healthcare workers. Reports indicate that the incident stemmed from a dispute between the nurse and the patient, who has since been taken into custody and presented before the court. Such acts of violence against healthcare professionals are on the rise, adding to the already challenging conditions within the NHS.