# DA in Gauteng claims there are only 751 Intensive Care Unit nurses, less than half of the one-thousand-760 needed, putting patient lives at risk. This follows revealed the figures from Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko’s reply in the provincial legislature. DA Gauteng Health spokesperson, Jack Bloom emphasised effects including increased patient mortality, longer hospital stays, and cancelled surgeries. With 250 ICU nurse vacancies, he blames budget constraints and staffing shortages.
DA Gauteng warns ICU nurse shortage costs lives