Emergency doctors criticize ‘Tone-deaf’ instructions for patient treatment

Emergency doctors have voiced their concern about the often “tone-deaf” instruction they receive regarding how to treat patients. These healthcare providers who deal with life-threatening situations on a daily basis say that they are often given arbitrary protocols that do not always reflect the reality of the patient’s needs or the resources at their disposal. These guidelines can lead to misdiagnoses and improper treatment, leaving patients with serious, and potentially fatal, consequences. In this article, we explore why emergency doctors are calling for a more patient-centered approach to medical instruction that takes into account the unique circumstances of each case.


Emergency doctors are urging the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI) to retract its recent guidance instructing hospitals not to allow trainee doctors to examine long-waiting patients. The Irish Association for Emergency Medicine (IAEM) has condemned the “national scandal” of patients waiting up to three days on trolleys for admission. The situation has been exacerbated by the RCPI’s threat to remove accreditation from any institution where trainee doctors examine patients before emergency department (ED) staff have seen them. In response, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has requested that specialist teams are available to review patients experiencing delays while waiting for an ED appointment.


In conclusion, the importance of clear communication between healthcare professionals and patients cannot be overstated. The recent criticism of ‘tone-deaf’ instruction in emergency medicine serves as a reminder of the need for empathy, compassion and sensitivity in medical care. As healthcare systems continue to evolve, it is critical that medical professionals strive towards a patient-centric approach, one that is supported by ongoing training and education. Ultimately, better communication is not only good for patients, but also for the healthcare system as a whole. Let us all work towards fostering a culture of empathy and compassion in medical care.