A man, aged 36, spent several days in a hospital hallway at Royal University Hospital during the summer, receiving treatment for brain swelling due to a lack of available rooms. Kay Roberts, the patient, described the experience as extremely frightening, noting that he had never encountered such a terrifying medical situation before.
Roberts sought medical assistance at the Saskatoon ER on August 4th after experiencing confusion and persistent headaches, which intensified his disorientation. Despite his expectations, he found himself undergoing medical procedures in a crowded hallway, where he spent four nights and five days on a stretcher, battling confusion and cognitive impairments.
During his time in the hallway, Roberts underwent various medical procedures, including a plasma replacement that necessitated a tube insertion into his jugular vein. Family members mentioned that the technician appeared visibly concerned about performing such a critical procedure in a congested space, with plasma boxes scattered on the floor, causing obstruction to passersby.
The treatment was crucial for Roberts’ recovery from encephalitis and to prevent further neurological complications. Before receiving treatment, Roberts spent nine hours in the ER waiting room, where his cognitive abilities deteriorated to the point he couldn’t recall his parents’ names. Despite the challenges, Roberts eventually received care in the neurology ward after spending a total of 10 days in the ER and makeshift overflow areas.
Acknowledging the dedicated care received from medical staff, Roberts expressed gratitude but highlighted the challenging circumstances of practicing medicine in a hallway. His mother, Maureen Roberts, emphasized the stress faced by her son, family, and healthcare providers during the ordeal, praising the exceptional care provided amidst difficult conditions.
At a news conference in Saskatoon, NDP health critic Keith Jorgenson condemned the situation, labeling the practice of conducting complex medical procedures in hallways as unacceptable. Jorgenson called for an apology to the family and urged Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill to visit the emergency department at RUH to witness the conditions firsthand.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) responded, expressing a willingness to meet with the patient to understand and address their experience. The SHA affirmed its commitment to alleviating capacity pressures by enhancing hospital flow and reducing emergency room wait times. Efforts are underway to expand acute care capacity in Saskatoon, including the addition of 109 inpatient beds at Saskatoon City Hospital in the upcoming year.