Accident prevention in the A&E department

Accident and Emergency units are often regarded as the 'shop window' of a health service. While the priority is to attend to those in need of emergency services, there may also be opportunities for health education amongst a 'captive audience', particularly in relation to accident prevention. This report illustrates how the influence of one A&E department was used amongst primary school children to increase their awareness of cycle safety. Educational materials were developed, a series of visits to schools was planned, which over 600 children attended, and a competition organised. Initial responses from the children were very positive, and an analysis of subsequent cycle injury levels is now under way. The project formed part of a wide ranging practice development programme within a large district general hospital in Whitehaven in collaboration with St Martin's College Department of Nursing. It combined the need to develop quality services and staff in tandem. The outreach educational approach is now being examined for adoption in other areas of the Trust.