SEREMBAN, 29 December 2024 – The delay in admitting patients to wards at Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar (HTJ) following a substation fire and an influx of patients at the Emergency and Trauma Department (ETD) has raised concerns among the public. Negeri Sembilan Health Director, Dr. Harlina Rashid, has acknowledged the delay and expressed her regret.
However, several critical questions arise regarding the measures that should be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future:
1. Fire Prevention Measures
What preventive steps have been taken to ensure the hospital’s electrical substation system is always safe?
Has the main switch room undergone regular inspections to avoid incidents like the recent fire?
2. Hospital Capacity
Given the frequent influx of patients at the ETD, has the hospital identified the need to increase the number of beds?
What are HTJ’s long-term plans to enhance ward and treatment room capacity?
3. Emergency Management
What standard operating procedures (SOPs) are in place to handle emergencies such as fires and patient congestion?
How does the hospital plan to minimize disruptions to patients if similar incidents occur again?
4. Patient Management
Is the triage system used at the ETD sufficient to handle patient surges efficiently?
How does the hospital ensure clear communication with patients and their families regarding waiting times and bed shortages?
5. Collaboration with Other Hospitals
Have other hospitals in Negeri Sembilan been prepared to provide additional capacity when needed?
How can the “step-down” process to transfer patients to other hospitals be expedited to ensure timely treatment?
6. Human Resources
Was a shortage of staff an issue before this incident occurred?
What plans are in place to ensure additional staff can be mobilized more quickly when needed?
This incident raises questions about the level of preparedness and preventive measures that hospitals should implement to avoid major disruptions like this.
Previously, Dr. Harlina emphasized that HTJ and the Ministry of Health remain committed to providing the highest standard of care. However, the public hopes for immediate solutions to ensure the comfort and safety of patients in the future.