Should we be turning them away?

A large number of A&E departments are still failing to meet the requirements of this very needy group of people, by which I mean the post-coital pill, commonly known as the ‘morning-after pill'.

Abstract

In desperation they come to us. Sometimes it's their first port of call, occasionally it's their fifth, and repeatedly we send them away. They are anxious, afraid and often alone, with no idea of where else to go. Any nurse reading this so far, might deny that I could be talking about a person attending Accident and Emergency (A&E)—unfortunately I am. These people are women, often with their partners, and seeking emergency contraception, by which I mean the post-coital pill, commonly known as the ‘morning-after pill’. Admittedly, not all A&E departments close their doors to this group. Many provide sound advice and treatment, with appropriate referral and follow-up. However, there are many who are still failing to meet the requirements of this very needy group of people. A situation which must change.