16^th December 2024

Meet Don Ivan Galang Lacanilao - Emergency Department Staff Nurse

In the fast-paced environment of an emergency department, no two days are ever the same, and Don Ivan Galang Lacanilao, Staff Nurse in our Emergency Department, enjoys the constant opportunity to learn something new. Don has been practicing nursing since 2012, beginning his career in the medical division at Manila International Airport. In 2016, he transitioned to one of the busiest, JCI-accredited emergency departments in the Philippines, refining his skills in high-pressure situations. Since joining Mater Private Network in April 2024, Don’s dedication to patient care has been evident, earning him one of the National Employee Recognition Awards for his outstanding contributions.

Can you please describe your role? What does a typical day look like? When can patients expect to meet you?

As an Emergency Department staff nurse, my role is centred around providing timely, comprehensive care to patients. I am responsible for triaging patients, conducting assessments, and developing individualised care plans. I work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including consultants, radiologists, laboratory staff, and ward nurses, to ensure that care is coordinated effectively. My duties also include administering medications, monitoring their effects, and advocating for patients to ensure they receive the necessary care and information about their treatment options.

Every morning, before patients begin to arrive at the Emergency Department, our team ensures all equipment is quality-checked, medications are stocked, and rooms are cleaned and disinfected. Within my role, I am involved in the triage and assessment of patients, initiating investigations such as ECGs, blood tests, or urinalysis, which are carried out before the doctor sees the patient. This approach helps expedite the diagnostic process, leading to quicker decisions regarding discharge or admission. By providing patients with frequent updates regarding their progress and waiting times, we ensure they feel cared for throughout their stay in the Emergency Department.

Based on the results of the diagnostic testing, the consultant will create a care plan for the patients and advise whether they are to be discharged or admitted to hospital. If the patient is to be discharged, I explain the discharge process, including follow-up care and prescriptions. For admitted patients, I ensure smooth room transfers and provide the ward nurse with a detailed handover report, outlining the patient's care plan.

In what way has your experience at Mater Private been different to working in the Philippines?

My experience at Mater Private Network differs significantly from my practice in the Philippines, especially in terms of nurse-to-patient ratio. At Mater Private Network, the ratio is more manageable, allowing me to dedicate more time and attention to each patient. This enables me to deliver the highest standard of care without the pressure of compromising on quality.

Emergency Department

Mater Private Emergency Departments in Dublin and Cork provide fast rapid access to our dedicated and specialist emergency teams when you need it most.

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What do you enjoy the most about your role?

The aspect of my role I enjoy most is patient interaction. It is deeply fulfilling to connect with patients and provide them with the care they need. The kindness and appreciation of our patients further enhance these interactions. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a patient leave the hospital with a smile, knowing they appreciated the care they received.

What are the most common conditions you see present at the Emergency Department?

In our Emergency Department, the most common conditions I encounter include fever, cough, cold symptoms, chest pain, abdominal pain, urinary tract infections, minor injuries, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, anaemia, sudden weight loss, and shortness of breath.

We have put together a useful guide detailing some of the most common conditions seen in our Emergency Department and when is the right time to seek medical attention from your GP or attend the Emergency Department.

What do you wish people would know about when it comes to emergency situations?

Staying calm in an emergency is key. Panic can complicate the situation for both the patient and the medical team. Basic first aid knowledge, having emergency contact information readily available, and being honest and concise when describing symptoms can significantly improve the care we can provide.

How can people be better prepared for emergency situations?

Individuals should take proactive measures to better prepare for emergency situations. Learning basic first aid and CPR can be lifesaving before professional help arrives. It is also essential to have an emergency kit at home and in your car, stocked with bandages, antiseptics, medications, and a flashlight. Keeping a list of emergency contacts, including personal and medical details like allergies and chronic conditions, can help healthcare providers deliver faster and more effective care. Practicing situational awareness, such as knowing emergency exits in public spaces and teaching children how to contact emergency services, is also crucial for better preparedness during emergencies.

On our website, you can find a useful guide on how to prepare for a medical emergency at home, including a downloadable emergency checklist to help you ensure you have the necessary details and items at hand.

Mater Private Network Emergency Department

Dublin: Tel: 1800 222 999 Email: emergency@materprivate.ie | Opening hours: 8am – 7pm, Monday to Saturday

Cork: Tel: 021 601 3333 Email: mpced@materprivate.ie | Opening hours: 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday

Mater Private Network Urgent Cardiac Care

Dublin: Tel 1800 247 999 | Opening hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Cork: Tel: 021 601 3326 Email: corkcardiology@materprivate.ie | Opening hours: 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday

Emergency Care

Mater Private Network offers a range of urgent rapid access services in both Dublin and Cork including two Emergency departments and two Urgent Cardiac Care departments.