Access to information enables safe and effective care for people in emergency departments. This is enhanced by shared digital systems containing up-to-date information. Information about a person’s diagnosis, interventions and drug treatment should be available at all times,76 across and between all NHS boards.
Access to up to date scans and tests, including echocardiograms and device monitoring, facilitates timely treatment and diagnosis. This enhances patient safety in high risk emergency situations. Immediate and easy access to congenital cardiology advice should be available. Remote, real-time, review of echocardiograms and ECGs facilitates safe care of newborn infants with suspected CHD and minimises unnecessary transfers. Effective and timely referral pathways from emergency departments to the national service are essential for patient safety.