Many of us are looking forward to New Year’s Eve, whether you’re planning a big night out or some quiet time with family and friends.
However, for the staff of emergency departments around the UK, trepidation takes over from excitement. And they brace themselves for an influx of injured revellers.
Flu is on the rise and we are seeing our usual increase in winter-related illness and accidents. Our Trust needs to keep every bed and treatment bay available for those who need it.
The emergency team at the University Hospital of North Tees is appealing to everyone to enjoy New Year’s Eve without injury.
Deepak Dwarakanath, medical director, said: “Our emergency colleagues see it all every New Year: twisted ankles, broken bones, split lips, cut foreheads and alcohol poisoning. And that’s not even counting the people who are brought in after getting into fights.
“We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun but we are asking everyone not to add to our pressures at New Year by injuring yourself or others because you’ve drank too much.
“Really, how is ending up in hospital anyone’s idea of a good New Year’s Eve?”
Excessive drinking can also have a long-term impact with the government advising a limit on 14-units of alcohol a week, with regular drink-free days throughout the week.
