NUH Trauma Centre Enhances Safety for Vulnerable Groups

The National University Hospital (NUH) has launched the National University Centre for Trauma. This centre focuses on comprehensive trauma care and outreach to vulnerable groups, including children, older adults, and migrant workers. The initiative aims to enhance safety and prevent trauma across Singapore.

Centre Launch and Capabilities

Each year, NUH treats about 1,300 severe trauma cases. These include 140 industrial accidents and 70 paediatric trauma incidents. This makes NUH one of Singapore’s largest trauma centres. It is also the only tertiary hospital caring for both adults and children.

The launch of the National University Centre for Trauma was officiated by Professor Kenneth Mak, Director-General of Health at the Ministry of Health. The event featured a symposium with local and international experts sharing best practices.

Focusing on Vulnerable Populations

The Centre prioritises outreach and education for children, older adults, and migrant workers. These groups are particularly vulnerable to trauma due to their unique circumstances.

• Children: Prone to accidents due to their active nature.
• Older Adults: Higher risk of falls and accidents due to age-related factors.
• Migrant Workers: Increased risk due to the physical demands of their jobs.

The Workplace Safety and Health Report 2023 states that the construction, manufacturing, and transportation sectors contributed to 60% of major injuries last year. Additionally, about one-third of people aged 65 and above in Singapore have suffered a fall at least once.

Educational Workshops

To address these risks, the Centre recently held an injury prevention workshop for migrant workers. This workshop, held on 30 June in collaboration with ItsRainingRaincoats, covered spinal care management, haemorrhage control, and first aid for severe injuries. The Centre also collaborates with community partners and schools to enhance public awareness on injury prevention.

Expediting Care and Improving Recovery

Code Trauma

In trauma care, every minute counts. The Centre has introduced Code Trauma, a response code that has halved the time needed to transfer a patient from the emergency department to the operating theatre. This code mobilises emergency physicians, nurses, trauma surgeons, anaesthesiologists, and intensive care physicians. They work together to manage bleeding in patients with multiple injuries.

Multi-disciplinary Trauma Clinic

NUH has also established a multi-disciplinary trauma clinic. This clinic provides a one-stop centre for trauma patients to recover. It offers combined consultations and therapy, reducing the need for multiple appointments. Weekly patient-centred meetings further enhance trauma care, rehabilitation, and psychosocial recovery pathways.

Supporting Life After Trauma

The psychological effects of trauma can persist long after physical recovery. To support trauma survivors, the Centre launched Singapore’s first trauma survivor support group in 2023. Starting with ten members, the group provides support, resources, and a sense of community, with expansion plans.

Medical Perspective

Impact on Mental Health

Trauma not only affects the body but also the mind. Survivors often face psychological challenges like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. These invisible scars can impact all aspects of life, including relationships and work. The survivor support group helps address these mental health issues.

Injury Prevention

Preventing injuries is as important as treating them. The Centre’s outreach programmes aim to educate the public on safety practices. Workshops in pre-schools and active aging centres teach children and older adults about safety. These educational efforts aim to reduce the incidence of trauma in vulnerable groups.

Data-Driven Approach

The Centre uses data to drive its injury prevention efforts. Real-time data helps identify high-risk areas and populations. This information guides the development of targeted educational programmes and safety initiatives.

Future Plans

The Centre plans to extend its outreach workshops to primary schools and community centres in the coming months. These workshops aim to instil safety awareness from a young age. The Centre is also exploring partnerships with other organisations to expand its reach.

Conclusion

The National University Centre for Trauma at NUH is committed to advancing trauma care and prevention. By focusing on vulnerable groups and providing comprehensive support, the Centre aims to improve safety and health outcomes across Singapore. This holistic approach ensures that survivors receive the care and support they need to recover and thrive.