The latest critical incident report from Manitoba’s health-care system, spanning from October 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022, reveals a concerning increase in incidents and deaths compared to previous reports. This period saw 10 deaths and 41 recorded incidents, shedding light on serious and unintended harm experienced by individuals utilizing Manitoba’s health-care services.
The incidents cited in the report ranged from administering the wrong antidote dosage to patients receiving incorrect procedures, leading to tragic outcomes. The causes of these incidents varied, including dosage errors, missed changes in medical status, patient falls, delays in care, and more.
The report underscores the urgent need for improvements within the health-care system, emphasizing the role of critical incident reviews in identifying areas for enhancement. Such reviews, as mentioned by the province, aim to prevent harm and guide systemic improvements.
Darlene Jackson, president of the Manitoba Nurses Union, and Jason Linklater, president of the Manitoba Association of Health Care Professionals, attribute these incidents to the ongoing staffing crisis in the health-care sector. Shortages in nursing and allied health professions, exacerbated by factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, contribute to gaps in patient monitoring and care.
Both Jackson and Linklater assert that many incidents could be prevented with adequate staffing levels, highlighting the importance of addressing the long-standing nursing shortage. They express concerns that unless long-term fixes are applied, the trend of critical incidents may persist in future reports.
In response to these challenges, Uzoma Asagwara, the minister of health, seniors, and long-term care, acknowledges the seriousness of the incidents and emphasizes the government’s commitment to implementing short-term solutions with lasting impacts. These include measures like adding more hospital beds, extending discharge hours, hiring and retaining staff, and fostering a positive healthcare culture.
However, the road to comprehensive healthcare reform is seen as a long-term endeavor. It requires addressing systemic issues, including the shortage of healthcare professionals, to ensure sustained improvements in patient care.
At Directpath Canada, we understand the crucial role that global recruitment and settlement services play in addressing healthcare staffing challenges. Our commitment to excellence in recruitment, immigration, and settlement services has earned us recognition in the field. As advocates for positive change in healthcare systems, we invite you to explore how Directpath Canada can contribute to building a robust and well-staffed healthcare environment.
