280 PERCEIVED NEED FOR A CLINICAL ETHICS SUPPORT SERVICE AT AN IRISH UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Abstract Background Ethics are the set of moral principles that guide a person’s behaviour. Ethical issues key component healthcare and frequently arise in management hospitalized older patients. To improve decision-making reduce burden on individual hospital staff, Clinical Support Services (CESS) have been widely-integrated into care pathways internationally. However, need for CESS has received little attention Irish hospitals. Methods A cross-sectional analysis ethical situation readiness at tertiary Ireland was collected from July-October 2021 February 2022 via hard copies online collection (SurveyMonkey). Both clinical (medicine, nursing other patient role) non-clinical (administrative, clerical, ICT, HR, general support staff management) participated. Descriptive statistics were assessed taking valid percentages, mean 5-item Likert scores Friedman Test rank ten ranked statements. Results In total, 199 people (13% response rate) completed survey. Staff largely (76%) majority qualified >10 years (57%). all, 78% reported role (83% 59% staff). Most (63%) unsure who to contact about concerns, instead seeking informal advice colleagues (>90%). The participants interested additional training, especially capacity (mean interest 4.18 out 5), strategies working with challenging patient/family situations (4.07 5) end-of-life (4.06 5). Out options assessed, preferenced development formal ethics committee over education training or provision educational materials. Conclusion commonly when caring This study found perceived widespread as well approaches develop hospital-based CESS, centred around structure.