‘After working in A&E there are things I would never do, like eat leftover food’

An A&E doctor has revealed five things he would never do to avoid unnecessary injuries and illnesses. Arthur Joustra, 25, who works at Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham, shared his list of activities to steer clear of after seeing numerous cases of preventable harm. His list includes avoiding riding a motorbike without proper safety gear, refraining from going abroad for surgery, not climbing with inappropriate footwear, staying away from drugs, and never eating leftover food that has been left out for too long.

Arthur highlighted the importance of wearing protective gear while cycling or motorbiking, emphasising that helmets can be life-saving in accidents. He also cautioned against drugs due to the severe health risks associated with substance abuse. Arthur shared his experiences of treating injuries resulting from inadequate safety measures, including cycling accidents and improper climbing footwear causing sprained ankles.

Moreover, Arthur stressed the dangers of consuming leftover food that has been sitting out for an extended period. He advised against eating food that has been left unrefrigerated for more than a few hours, as reheating does not eliminate the toxins produced by bacteria. Similarly, he warned against travelling abroad for surgery without ensuring proper aftercare, as some facilities may not provide adequate support post-operation.

Arthur’s insights serve as valuable reminders to prioritise safety and health in daily activities to prevent unnecessary visits to the emergency room. His experiences as an A&E doctor underscore the importance of taking precautions to avoid potential risks and stay safe in various situations. By following his advice, individuals can reduce the likelihood of accidents and illnesses that may require medical attention.