Interruption-free mealtimes introduced at Galway hospitals

A new ‘protected mealtimes’ policy has been introduced at Galway University Hospitals.
This means that during certain hours, patients at UHG and Merlin Park will now be guaranteed the chance to eat their meals without interruption.
In a statement, the HSE says the policy is being introduced to improve patients mealtime experiences by allowing them to eat their meals without disruption.
It further says the measure will also facilitate hospital staff to assist, encourage and monitor patients during mealtimes to ensure their food intake is appropriate.
The new policy applies to breakfast between 8.15 and 9.15am, lunch from 12.15 to 1.15pm and tea-time between 5.15 and 6.15 in the evening.
During these times, all non-urgent activities on wards at University Hospital Galway and Merlin Park Hospital will cease.
The HSE is keen to stress that in cases where relatives or friends are assisting patients with their meals, current practice will continue as normal.