News@NLaGStaff and members newsletter October 2014

Togetherwe care, we respect, we deliver

Celebrating our stars of 2014 Read about their achievements on pages 6-9

Winners announced inside!

Health visitors shine under spotlight

New hope for suspected cancer patients

Flu Fighters are back! Now’s the time to get your jab

Inside this issue

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Together we care . . .

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Your FacebookSteve Roberts: My wife was admitted to HDU at Grimsby hospital with a serious chest infection. The staff were, as always amazing, and within four days she was home and on the mend. Can’t praise the nursing staff enough, especially Rachel , Cathy Elena, and everyone else who I don’t know the names of.Ian Dewer: Discharged from Goole yesterday as all the bionic parts seem to be working. Feeling good! Thank you to everyone at this great hospital.Heather Gallagher: Fab cakes from new parents thanking ward 26 for their care:

Your tweets@sarahlcpe: @NHSNLaG fantastic, compassionate and friendly care. Thanks xray. No fracture and calm child. @hplusinsights: Revolution in patient care at #Grimsby thanks to @NHSNLaG #WebV real time system @karendunderdale: Enjoyed spending time @ScunnyHospitalDischarge Lounge. Really enthusiastic team of nurses who go the extra mile for patients @NHSNLaG@CarolineDNS1990: Sterling work by Grimsby hospital switchboard trying to track a member of staff down for me. #UnsungHeroinesandHeros@SYco_Womble: What a great touch @GrimsbyHospitalchildren’s ward. A teddy for the children pic.twitter.com/LkrvfH5et4@ianblee: Grandson treated @Goole Hospital miu. Treatment excellent, doctor 1st class and he was so kind.Full marks all round.

Contents

Get in touch...Don’t forget we are always on the lookout for great gossip, exciting events and touching tales – if you have something to shout about please let us know!The deadline for the December edition is November 10.

Charlie Garrity - Tel: 01724 282282 extension 2743Email: charlotte.garrity@nhs.net

Lisa Webster - Tel: 01724 387739Email: lisa.webster1@nhs.net

Katie Blackburn - Tel: 01724 282282 extension 2528Email: katie.blackburn1@nhs.net

facebook.com/NHSNLaGfacebook.com/ScunnyHospitalfacebook.com/GrimsbyHospitalfacebook.com/GooleHospital

@GooleHospital, @GrimsbyHospital, @ScunnyHospital, @NHS_NLaG

4 New family nurses join the team

5 £630k scheme underway on B3

6 Four-page special on Our Stars

10 Flu fighters are back. Plan your jab to stay safe this winter

11 Electronic prescribing is coming

12 Physiotherapy team help teenager to walk unaided for first time

13 Have you say in Trust elections

14 Inside view of stroke unit at Scunthorpe hospital

15 New managers take up posts

16 Infection control corner

18 A day in the life of ... junior doctor Melody Redman

19 Picture box round up

Long serving consultant retires after 40 plus years in NHS

Top notch score for hospital food

Togetherwe care, we respect, we deliver

Staff gathered to wish Henry Pearson, (front centre), all the best for his retirement

The standard of food across the Trust has approved significantly according to the latest patient-led assessments of the care environment (PLACE) inspections.This is a national inspection regime which sees patients taking the lead on inspections across hospitals.Patient representatives accompanied by members of hospital staff are asked to visit a range of wards or departments and assess:• How the environment supports

patients’ privacy and dignity• The standard of the food• Hospital cleanliness • General building maintenance.This inspection is not a clinical assessment and does not inspect clinical care provision or how well staff are doing in their job but gives a detailed view of the environment in which care takes place.This year’s results show that the standard of food has improved across all three hospital sites.At Grimsby hospital the standard of food is now rated at 80.92 per cent, an increase from 57.7 per cent scored on last year’s inspection.At Scunthorpe hospital the standard of food is now rated at 75.53 per cent, up

from 69.33 per cent on last year’s figures.At Goole hospital the standard of food is now rated at 88.53 per cent compared to 72.04 per cent in the 2013 inspection.Jug Johal, director of facilities across the Trust, said: “We have taken on board a lot of feedback over the last few years which have helped us to make some significant changes within the catering service.“We have recently changed our catering supplier, adapted menus and invested significantly in a new fleet of state of the art heated trolleys which keep meals at the correct temperature.“All this and more has improved the service dramatically and the latest PLACE results are a testament to this.”The latest PLACE scores also show an improvement in cleanliness, maintenance and privacy and dignity. Tara Filby, deputy chief nurse, said: “It is great that our scores have risen across the Trust.“Staff responded well to actions drawn up from last year’s inspection which included refurbishment of lifts, replacement of worn flooring and a change to the way food is provided at meal-times. “All of this has had a direct impact in improving the hospital environment for patients.”

Yellow name badges introduced for staffPatients have told us it means a lot to them to know the name of the staff member treating them. We’ve acted on this feedback and introduced new name badges as a result. Staff working face-face with patients at our hospitals in Scunthorpe, Grimsby and Goole and those working across the Trust’s community services are now wearing the new yellow name badges.It comes after comments from patients that they did not know always the name of the member of staff caring for them.The badges are bright yellow with large black writing which makes them clear and easy to read. They feature the staff member’s name and job title so patients and their relatives are clear about who they are talking to and who is treating them.Deputy chief nurse, Tara Filby said: “We listen to feedback from patients and always strive to make improvements based on their comments where we can. A common theme in complaints around communication was that patients didn’t know the name of the member of staff caring for them.“We wanted something simple that would be clearly visible for patients and visitors to read which will support good communication. We chose yellow badges

with black writing as this is widely recognised as being highly readable for everyone, including people with visual impairments.”Staff will still wear their standard Trust ID badges but these can be hard to read.

Staff on ward 28 proud of their new name badges: From left, Deborah Syron, deputy ward sister, Paula Broomhead, therapy manager acute/short term, Tara Filby, deputy chief nurse, Susan Shields, hospital support assistant, Hayley Colclough, senior healthcare assistant and Wendy Johnson, advanced healthcare assistant

Stalwart consultant Mr Henry Pearson has retired after more than 40 years in the NHS – 27 of these at Grimsby hospital.Last year he was made an MBE in The Queen’s Birthday Honours list for his lifetime of service to the NHS.He has also spearheaded The Bottoms Up Appeal, which has raised £210,000 for equipment and facilities for bowel cancer patients.He said: “When I applied for the job in Grimsby, I didn’t know where it was.“The reason I came to Grimsby was because it was a proper district general hospital, which had all of the surgical specialties, except neurosurgery.“The post was advertised to be a general surgeon with a special interest in colorectal surgery. The sub-specialisation was a new venture for district general hospitals and was an exciting prospect.”He paid tribute to the dedication of his medical secretary, Jill, who has been more

of a personal assistant and has worked for him for 21 years.He also thanked his wife, Cherry Ann, saying that dealing with patients with serious conditions can be extremely stressful.He said: “I will always be grateful for her support. I have been at Grimsby hospital for 27 years and 40 years in the NHS. I

feel ready to stop. It is quite important as a surgeon not to leave it too late. This is a step into the unknown for me.“I have really enjoyed my time here. It is a lovely job because you make a difference to people’s lives. It is a friendly hospital. He said he will be spending more time enjoying his past-times of cycling through the Lincolnshire Wolds and gardening.

Did you know?The new name badges are just one initiative aimed at improving staff communication. Earlier this year 846 members of staff signed up to the #hellomynameis campaign.

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Together we deliver . . .

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Together we respect . . .

Work has been completed to make it easier for patients to navigate their way around the outpatients department at Grimsby hospital.It has been split into four colour-coded zones and some clinics have been moved to the main hospital corridor.Work has also been completed to install new self-check-in kiosks for patients to use when they arrive in outpatients.Planned care manager Louise Hobson said: “By putting clinics in colour-coded zones we will be able to send appointment letters to patients detailing which zone they need to attend.“We are also installing new directional signage which will clearly show the four colour-coded zones, making it clearer and easier for people to navigate their way around from the moment they walk through our front door.”The new kiosks will allow patients to book themselves into a clinic on their arrival without having to wait in a queue to be seen by a receptionist.At peak clinic times it can be busy, so it is hoped the new kiosks will alleviate patients queuing to check in. Volunteers will be on hand to assist people either trying to find the clinic or with the kiosks.

Patient lettersScunthorpeAs soon as I entered the hospital I was welcomed by a volunteer, a very pleasant gentleman called Peter Woodcock, who very kindly escorted me to the department on D floor that I was looking me. What a lovely way to be welcomed, he is a credit to the hospital. Kerry Clarke.

I had an ultrasound in sky imaging suite and then had to go to gynae for an examination. All the staff were so friendly as well as being very professional. I was very nervous and was put at ease right away. I was seen on time and when being examined my modesty was covered and the nurses were great. The lady doctor I saw was very gentle even when she quickly removed my coil! I left with my mind put at rest and just a slight twinge in my stomach. Absolutely would have no worries about going back to this super unit. Jean Fletcher via NHS Choices- Scunthorpe.GrimsbyWent early in the morning to A&E as my breathing wasn’t great as my asthma was playing up. Staff were very helpful and the service was quick and very friendly. They gave me quick and easy instructions and the nurse was able to give me a nebuliser and steroids without seeing a doctor first. Wasn’t waiting long and was sent home with medication without going to the pharmacy. Thank you everybody from reception staff up to the doctor too. Bev on NHS Choices.Goole I visited the minor injuries unit and the staff were fantastic. I was seen extremely quickly within 10 mins of arrival . The doctor and nurses were lovely as was the radiologist . My only complaint, and this is not aimed at any member of the unit, is that although being in a lot of pain and being given a collar and cuff for my fracture, i was informed that the first fracture clinic appointment was 16 days away. The staff seemed to be extremely embarrassed at this and I’m not surprised as I think this a disgrace. K Baker via NHS Choices.

Health visitors shine under spotlight

Our health visiting teams took up an opportunity to showcase their services when they were paid a special visit. Janet Davies is the executive director of nursing and service delivery for the RCN but came to meet the team in her capacity as a member of a government health visiting taskforce. She made clear it wasn’t an inspection, she was here to find out what is working well in the service and what challenges staff face.Kim Adlard, operational matron for children’s community nursing services, gave a presentation about the service covering highlights including:• The fact we have home grown our

own health visitors • We are increasing face-to-face

antenatal health promotion visits for all pregnant women

• We are working with the NSPCC on a pilot of the Coping with crying initiative which aims to reduce head injuries in babies.

She also talked about some of the challenges the service faces like IT issues and workforce planning. She said: “It was a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate the good things we are

New FNP nurses join team Two new nurses have joined the Family Nurse Partnership. Lorraine Norton (front left) and Kerry Hill (front right) have joined the team. They come from health visiting and child and adult mental health backgrounds and are looking forward to bringing their extensive experience to the team to help an additional 50 families.

New hope for suspected cancer patients

New £35k unitWork has been carried out to create a new dedicated antenatal triage assessment area for pregnant women attending Scunthorpe hospital.The scheme will enable women who are experiencing problems with their pregnancy to attend ward 26 and be seen by a midwife in the new room. Previously they were seen on the main ward.Associate medical director for women and children/consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Mr Lawrence Roberts said: “This is great news for our patients as it will ensure only those women who really need to be admitted to the ward for possible treatment or close monitoring will be. It also ensures we provide appropriate advice and care for those women who have concerns about their pregnancy but don’t need to stay in hospital.”The scheme, which cost in the region of £35,000, has seen a dedicated triage room created created with ensuite bathroom facilities providing a private, spacious, comfortable and relaxing environment for people.

A new diagnostic breast screening test – the first of its kind in the region – is offering fresh hope to patients with suspected cancer. Grimsby hospital’s Pink Rose Suite has purchased new imaging software called Tomosynthesis that will help to improve the detection of small cancers. Clearer images produced will enable clinicians to easily define whether or not a patient has cancer or a non-malignant lump. Some patients may also receive a diagnosis from this new system without the need of a biopsy, which in turn will reduce the anxiety of patients.Tomosynthesis works similarly to a standard mammogram with an x-ray scanning over the breast. However, it can examine the breast one layer at a time in thin slices which reduces the overlap of tissue and thus improves accuracy when making a diagnosis.Not everyone suspected of having

breast cancer will be suitable to undergo tomosynthesis imaging.Sarah Lawson, consultant radiographic practitioner, said: “We are the first Trust in this region to be using this kind of imaging. “Tomosynthesis has many advantages leading up to a diagnosis but it also plays a part when clinicians decide on treatment. Surgical procedures can be more precisely planned as the distance between lesions can be accurately measured.“I feel we are very lucky in this region to be able to offer local people the best treatment possible. “I want to thank the Pink Rose Charity and all fundraisers that contribute as without them we would have struggled to ever purchase the tomosynthesis licence. Those that raise funds for us are the backbone to this suite and it is credit to their hard work that we are able to continue to improve our services.”

Pictured (from left) Janet Hendy, advanced practitioner and Sarah Lawson, consultant radiographic practitioner

Work to refurbish a ward at Grimsby hospital to benefit colorectal patients has started.The £630,000 scheme will see ward B3 refurbished with new ensuite facilities for each bay, the addition of bidets to the unit, a new nurses’ station and single side room, as well as new flooring, windows and decoration.It will also see a new treatment room created for the surgical wards.The work is expected to be completed by Christmas and means the ward, which includes the high observation bays, has temporarily moved to ward B1.Consultant Mr Henry Pearson said: “This investment is great news for our patients as the refurbished ward will provide a much nicer environment, with the benefit of ensuite facilities in the bays and bidets on the unit.“I want to say a big thank you to local fundraisers who have generously donated to the Bottoms Up Appeal as £160,000 from the fund is being used on the project.”

£630,000 scheme to benefit colorectal patients

New zones for OPD

doing and also for us to raise any areas that could be improved nationally. “Our family nurse partnership service was highlighted as a great success story and an example of best practice.”Kim talked about how the health visitors and FNP work very closely and that the service had recently expanded with the addition of two new FNP nurses (meet them below). Frances Cunning, director of public health for the CCG was also in attendance and were also praised the FNP service. Each month a client of the service goes to the board in person to share their experiences of using the service. Frances Cunning, director of public health, said: “I am constantly astonished by the openness with which they talk about their situation; and that’s down to the relationship with their nurse.” Tina Sykes said: “The visit was very positive and Janet took the opportunity to visit one of our locality teams based at Duchess House to speak to some of the nurses based there. Staff talked to her about some of the initiatives they are implementing to improve patient care.After the visit Janet fed back to the team that: “It was really helpful and I was impressed with everyone’s enthusiasm”.

Third left: Kim Adlard, Janet Davies amd Tina Sykes with some of our health visitors

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On Friday October 3 300 members of staff gathered at the Forest Pines Hotel and Golf Resort in Broughton for the much anticiapted Our Stars 2014 staff awards ceremony. Ladies donned cocktail dresses and the fellas dressed to impress at the glitzy awards bash which was a sell-out.Guy Hageman, resucitation officer for the Trust, once again stepped up to the plate to take some cracking photos.Twelve winners were revealed on the night including four who walked away with the new coveted Patient’s Choice Award. There was also two surprise awards from our chief executive Karen Jackson. Catering assistant at Grimsby hospital Denis Mendes Pinto recieved the chief executive’s award and Viv Duncanson was honoured with a special recognition award for her success in tackling infection rates across the Trust.In this four-page special we reveal the winners who fought off competition from nearly 100 staff nominations and 200 patient nominations . Each winner was presented with a glass trophy and a framed certificate. Everyone shortlisted can now make a suggestion for how £4,000 should be spent to benefit patients. Contact Charlotte.garrity@nhs.net with your ideas by October 31.

Karen Jackson, chief executive, said: “I know that many of you don’t realise that what you do is special. You see going the extra mile to make a difference to patients as part of your daily job. “Our Stars is about recognising your achievements and celebrating them together. We depend on the skills and professionalism of our staff and it’s clear from our winners and everyone who was shortlisted that there is a great deal of this within our organisation.“I’m proud of your achievements, and you should be too.” The raffle on the night raised £1,200 which will go to the Trust’s charitable funds.

We are proud to present the winners of Our Stars 2014:

Winners revealed at sell-out awards ceremony Best Business InitiativeWebV teamThey are shaping the future of our Trust with new ways of working, through hard work and commitment. They listen and are adapting the systems to ensure they meet the needs of each service, helping to free up valuable time to focus on patients. Always helpful and quick to respond. They are very much a “can do“ service.

Runnrs up: Hospital support assistant project team, and the education, training and development administration team.

SHINE award for quality and innovationCross sectional radiographers, DPoWAn innovative team who have responded to planned departmental restructure by exceeding expectation by initiating a unique approach to CT access. This team have initiated a direct access system where outpatients who are seen within the hospital are able to access the CT scanner on the same day as their appointment. The team said: “We feel very honoured. We wanted to do something that would impact on patient care and improve the service. Although we were doing ok and our waiting times were all right we knew we could make further improvements. We all pulled together as a team to make it work. It has just grown from the initial concept and we are developing it all of the time.”Runners up: Mike Urwin, Karen Roe and Tess Tasker and Ian Wilson and the ECC team at DPoW.

Keeping our patients safeHermione Cartwright, bank officeHermione is an extremely organised, hard working, resilient problem solver that without her dedication the nurse bank office could have failed to continue to deliver. Hermione has at times single handedly ensured that the bank office has kept open and met the needs of the organisation. She has shown a level of commitment and approach to problem solving expected of very senior staff. She ensured wards met essential staffing levels which directly impacted on patient care. Unfortunately Hermione couldn’t attend the ceremony to pick up her award. She said: “I am really pleased I have been able to make a difference and I promise to keep it up.”Runners up: Ward 2 (short stay) SGH and Sheila Strachan and e-prescribing team.

Clinical Service RedesignMRI Team at SGHThe team were persistent and determined to develop their service, and to make prostate MRI scanning within NLAG become a reality, despite the obstacles which threatened to stop this happening. Dr Dabra said: “It has been a real team effort. We now have services at Scunthorpe hospital that really are quite unique to see in a district general setting. This award is recognition of the work we have all done. We are really proud of the service we have and we are going from strength to strength. “Runners up: Seven day working project and surgical assessment team on ward B2.

Patient Centred CareAdele Shaw, medical physics, DPoWA lovely individual who through the extra work she has taken on has ensured the department is kept running as smoothly as possible while the head has been away. Adele is a hardworking, selfless person who is always happy to help others.She said: “Everyone has worked really hard, not just me. It is great to be able to put medical physics up there. I do think it’s really nice to be recognised. We are all there for the patients. I have never had a trophy before; I’m going to put it pride of place on my mantel place.”Runners up: Annie Thorne, Macmillan nurse and Stephen Button, community equipment store.

Good Corporate CitizenStreamline printer replacement project teamThe project team including members from procurement, finance, IT, communications and operations were responsible for delivering the Streamline printer replacement project which is estimated to save the Trust £100k per year and will also help to reduce the carbon footprint by using fewer, more centralised multi-function devices across the three main hospital sites. 326 new devices were rolled out and installed across DPOW, SGH and GDH sites. The team worked together over a period of approximately nine months to plan the implementation of the new solution. Runners up: Billy ‘the handyman’ Hamilton and Oliver Taylor, facilities.

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Melinda Smith, ward 19, SGH“Nothing was too much trouble. Melinda was working long hours but was very positive, cheerful, upbeat and professional throughout. She lifted spirits and was a pleasure to be around.”“She did little things to make me more comfortable. I was self-caring and she kept popping to check I was ok. She found me magazines to occupy my time. Generally a very happy, helpful individual who helped brighten my days. “Melinda said: “I was already a winner before receiving this trophy as my patients nominated me. I brought my mum with me tonight and hearing I was a winner made her cry , so that was lovely being able to share this moment with her.”

Laurel ward , DPoW“ All staff in Laurel team have been friendly and kind, they have been understanding and over the top nice. They have made my stay welcoming and not scary at all.”The team said: “When we heard we had been nominated it uplifted us all and morale has been so high ever since. There are 29 staff here tonight to celebrate. We were already winners as our nomination came from our patients. It is the patient choice that makes it even more special as they perceive us as being their patients choice. It has been brilliant.”

Ward 25, SGH“The way they look after people regardless of age/circumstances is extremely caring and makes the experience for us less daunting and scary for old and young alike. “

“From walking through the door to going home they never stop.”The team said: “It fantastic to have won, we feel very honoured. We all work as a team on the ward to improve patient care. Until recently our ward manager Wendy Orwin has led from the front and has been a real leading light. Our success is down to her leading us forward as a team.”

Surprise awards revealed on the night

Denis Mendes Pinto was chosen by chief executive Karen Jackson to recieve a special award on the night. She said: “I wanted to award Denis for the way he talks to our patients, the public and our staff. He goes out of his way for everybody whatever they ask. Nothing it too much trouble.”Denis said: “I like to work in a team, I like the public, patients and staff. It feels fantastic to have received the chief executive’s award. It was such a shock, as I didn’t have a clue. I was told I had to come to the awards but I had no idea why. It really is such a shock.”

Viv Duncanson was also honoured with a special recognition award for her work to tackle infection rates at the Trust. Karen said: “She has helped to drive us forward and never allowed us to stop what we are doing. She has never allowed us to forget what is important and has always maintained a focus on our patients.”Viv said: “I was really honoured this week to pick up a national award. I actually told my colleagues at the awards ceremony in Glasgow that it is ok to lead a team but you need the team behind you in order to deliver. My team isn’t just my infection prevention and control colleague but the whole of the Trust.”

Valued PartnershipsTunde and emergency care centre DPoWThe EEC team from NLAG, A&E, GP from Core Care Lincs, CPG rapid response nurse and Focus Social Work team have come together to deliver the unplanned care pathway in an innovative and integrated solution that exceeds national expectations. The team have worked through clinical and cultural boundaries to work together to deliver excellent care to emergency patients who present at Grimsby Hospital. They are delivering the 4 hour target consistently and compares nationally as one of the best performing ECCs in the country. The team said: “It’s good to have won this as it is recognition for all of the hard work the team have put in, it has really paid off. It has been a real team effort and we are all ecstatic to won this award. We really have out in a tremendous amount of work in to turn the department around.”Runners up: Louise Hobson, cancer services and Integrated therapy team DPoW

Together AwardOrganisational development teamThe organisational development team has taken on the daunting challenge of changing the culture of the organisation. They have done this with such positivity, passion and enthusiasm which has not dwindled despite any hurdles or negativity they have come across along the way. They were responsible for the roll-out of the Trust vision and values and in a short time they have implemented new initiatives aimed to engage and boost staff engagement from the morale barometer, a whole raft of staff benefits and incentives , the ‘Our Stars’ awards, and the staff portal.Runners up: Recruitment team led by Claire Smaller and Angie Davies and Communications and marketing team

Patient’s Choice Award - voted for by patients and their familiesThe people shortlisted for this award were so strong, it was felt they were all winners and all received a trophy and certificate.

Helen Rippon, speech and language therapist“Helen is such a special person. She has worked with my son for about 10 years now. I am positive that without her skills, dedication and support he would not have made the progress he has. She has also been a stalwart of support for the whole family.”

“Helen is the most patient, caring and kind lady I have met. She works professionally and is a genuine nice person. When I met Helen my three year old son could hardly put a sentence together and struggled to get out a lot of words. Everyone can now understand him and he no longer has tantrums through frustration as he can speak clearly. She is an amazing woman who has helped my little boy so much. “

Helen said: “It feel absolutely fantastic although I didn’t expect it for one minute. I am retiring in three weeks’ time, so to collect this award it so special. I am finishing my career on a real high.”

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Flu kills! Don’t delay have your flu vaccination todayFlu Fighter is back. The team of yellow-clad Flu Fighters have ordered the vaccines, donned their T-shirts, dusted down their trollies and are coming to a ward/department near you.

They will be visiting wards, departments, various meetings and community venues throughout October offering frontline staff the chance to have their flu jab.As with last year, all other staff will have a chance to get their jab. They will be able to book an appointment with the team from October 27.Debbie O’Toole, head of occupational health, and her team of vaccinators will be offering staff a free sweet, pen and a sticker in return for rolling up their sleeve and having their flu jab.Debbie said: “It takes seconds to do, it doesn’t hurt, it doesn’t give you the flu but what it does do is protect you, your family and your patients from a potentially killer bug.”If frontline staff miss the Flu Fighters don’t worry they will be out and about throughout October across all three hospitals and at community venues.They will also be offering special sessions for staff who work nights, as well as those working weekends. See the flu hot topic page on the Hub for details of where they will be out and about.Debbie said: “There is no excuse for anyone not to have their vaccination as we will be highly visible, at all times of the day and week. For those who do miss us, then all they have to do is pick up the phone and contact occupational health to arrange an appointment.”

Myth - the flu vaccine isn’t safeFact - FALSE

The risk of having a serious reaction is less then one in a million; much lower than the risk of getting seriously ill from having the flu itselfHowever, you should not have the vaccine if you a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to eggs. This is because hen’s eggs are used to make the vaccineIf you have had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to the flu vaccine before, then seek advice before you have the jab

Myth - healthy people don’t get seasonal fluFact - FALSE

The reason that free flu vaccines are offered to all frontline staff is because anyone can catch the virusGenerally 15 to 20 per cent of the population gets flu You can carry and pass the virus on without having any symptomsyourselfIf you can catch it, you can pass it one to those who are at more risk of serious illness. This could include your patients, friends, family or work colleagues. Remember vulnerable patients with long-term medical conditions and elderly people are not strong enough to fight off the infection

As with last year’s campaign a league table will be published in the Wednesday weekly email bulletin which will show which staff group is out in front.Trust chief nurse Dr Karen Dunderdale said: “The occupational health team are bringing the vaccine to you, be it a ward, department or even meeting so there really is no excuse for staff not to have their jabs. “We must all remember that it not only protects us from the potentially deadly flub bug but also our patients and our own family and friends.”Members of the public will be asked by

Myth - the flu is just like catching a cold Fact - FALSE

For most people it is unpleasant but for some it can lead to chest

infections, severe complications and death

Globally, seasonal flu results in 250,000 to 500,000 deaths

Myth - I can’t have the flu jab as I’m pregnant

Fact - FALSE Pregnant women can have it at any stage of their pregnancyIt helps to protect them and their unborn baby

Myth - if I wash my hands I won’t catch the fluFact - FALSE

It is vital to follow infection prevention procedures and wash your hands. Once flu has been passed on to your family, colleagues or patients, clean hands won’t keep flu at bay

Myth - I’ve had the flu jab before so I don’t need it againFact - FALSE

The flu is a living organism and the flu strains mutate slightly every year so they can surviveThe only way to protect against these mutated strands is to update the seasonal flu vaccine every yearIf you want to be covered then get your jab

Did you know?In 2012/2013 the Trust vaccinated 35.5 per cent of frontline staffIn 2013/2014 the Trust vaccinated 65 per cent of frontline staffScientific, therapeutic and technical staff in the Trust came out tops last year with a massive 84 per cent having their jabsIn second place were the doctors with 75 per cent having their vaccineSupport staff came in at third place with 68 per centThe nursing staff came in fourth with 53 per cent

Watch out for this year’s scores

Myth - if I have the flu jab I will get the fluFact - FALSE

It is impossible as the vaccine doesn’t contain live virusesA very small number of people may experience side effects such as aching muscles, but this is simply the immune system responding to the vaccineYou may also experience soreness around the site of the injectionThese symptoms are a lot less serious than having the flu

their GP if they want the jab if they are:• Pregnant• 65 or overOr if you have:• Lung disease• Heart disease • Kidney disease• Liver disease• Neurological disease, such as motor

neurone disease, Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis.

• A weakened immune system • Diabetes.

Don’t wait, get jabbedOne of the most common reasons for people not getting vaccinated is “I’ve never had flu before”. There’s no such thing as natural immunity to influenza as new strains circulate every year. So what are you

waiting for?

Staff at Scunthorpe and Goole hospitals can contact ext 2210

Staff at Grimsby can contact ext 7986

Members of the public in the ‘at risk’ group will be called by their GPs for their jab.

Signs and symptoms of fluThe symptoms of flu usually peak after two to three days and you should begin to feel much better within five to eight days. However, you may have a lingering cough and still feel very tired for a further two to three weeks. Flu can give you any of these symptoms:• Sudden fever – a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or above• Dry, chesty cough• Headache, tiredness• Chills• Aching muscles/limb or joint pain• Diarrhoea or upset stomach• Sore throat, runny or blocked nose, sneezing• Loss of appetite• Difficulty sleeping

Myth - I east healthily so I will be ok. Fact - FALSE

A healthy diet will help boost your immune system but it won’t protectyou from the flu

Staff on ward 22 have had their flu jabs

Flu fighter Debbie O’Toole with Dr Bashar Yasso

Intensive care unit staff have had their flu jabs

Flu fighters at a ward managers meeting

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Congrats to MattMatt Overton, emergency planning coordinator, has passed his diploma in health emergency planning at Loughborough University. The course has been developed by the university, Public Health England, Department of Health and the Royal Society of Public Health.It covers nine units looking at subjects such as: integrated emergency management; operational preparedness for major incidents and emergencies; developing and evaluating emergency plans and conducting and evaluating exercises for emergency planning.Matt has worked at the Trust for more than six years and has been in his present post for the last two years.Graham Jaques, resilience manager, said: “It is really good news that Matt has completed his diploma in health emergency planning, both for personal development but also the depth of knowledge within this arena that it will bring for the organisation.”

Electronic prescribing coming soon

News in briefA step up for podiatry

Podiatry staff in Grimsby community clinic are professional, caring and courteous according to a patient survey. New patients were asked about the service and the results show all rated the service as good or better (69 per cent said it was ‘excellent’, 28 per cent rated it as ‘very good’ and 3 per cent as ‘good’). The service has recently moved to Scartho medical centre.

New smoking deterrantThere’s a new deterrent for smokers at Grimsby hopsital. A new announcement system is being piloted at the main entrance, where smokers tend to light up. When someone approaches the area a voice recording states “smoking is not permitted on this hospital site.” The recording is triggered every time someone approaches the doors to the main entrance and is funded by public health.

Join us on FacebookGoole hospital now has its own Facebook page. It has been set up for patients, staff and members of the public. People can find and ‘like’ the page at facebook.com/GooleHospital to keep up-to-date with news, developments and patient feedback from the hospital. People can also use the page to share their own experiences as a patient or relative at the hospital.

Dental service praiseOur community dental service has received a clean bill of health after passing the Dental Practice Quality Scheme. Dental clinics in Scunthorpe, Cleethorpes and Grimsby were assessed through a variety of methods including a patient satisfaction survey, an inspection and a random check on patient records. One parent said: ‘My children look forward to coming .”

Electronic prescribing at the bedside

For many of us walking is a lesson learnt before we can evern speak but for one teenager the art has only just begun.With his right leg twisted outwards by 45 degrees and his left by 30 degrees since birth, Andrew Sanderson, 13, of Ashby, has never known a life where even walking wasn’t painful – until now. In February he underwent a four-hour operation at Sheffield Children’s Hospital where surgeons broke his legs, then re-aligned and inserted pins and metal plates in order to secure them into the correct position. As traumatic as this may sound, for Andrew the operation has been high on his wish list. He said: “It has been a long time coming and I am so happy my legs now point the right way. I am not in pain when I walk anymore which is also great.“I love sports especially football and basketball but I have never been able to play. Sports days at school were always a challenge but I was determined to be a part even though I knew I would end up at the back.

Stepping up for physiotherapy donation

“I am just excited at the possibility to be part of a football team one day.”Andrew has now started physiotherapy at Scunthorpe hospital where staff will help to build up his strength and enable him to walk correctly for the first time. Andrew said: “I find it hard at times

just because I am not used to my legs being straight. My physiotherapy is going well and the staff are really kind and encouraging.”Andrew’s family decided to show their gratitude to the physiotherapy team by donating £200, after holding an open house for friends and family and a car boot.Angela Vause, Andrew’s mum, said: “Andrew has been so brave throughout everything. He will have to have another operation in November providing all is well to remove the plates in his legs and then that should be it.“We cannot thank all the medical teams enough but we wanted to give something to the physiotherapy team as they are building Andrew’s confidence to walk correctly.”Michelle Fowler, physiotherapist at Scunthorpe hospital, said: “Andrew has never walked with straight legs before but he has done so well already. When we first met he was in his wheelchair but now he can walk unaided.

Best foot forward: from left, Michelle Fowler, physiotherapist at Scunthorpe hospital, Andrew Sanderson and his nana Nita Vause

The Trust has come on leaps and bounds with regards to using technology to improve patient care – think of WebV and the EPR project. Well now part and parcel of that move toward paperless patient records is electronic prescribing.It’s already being piloted on some wards at Grimsby hospital and now a rollout plan has been devised which will see all wards at Grimsby, Scunthorpe and Goole hospitals using electronic prescribing over the next two years.The medical wards at Grimsby will be the first to start using the new technology, followed by the surgical wards.Benefits to the project include no drug charts, reduction in medication errors, reduced nurse time and more.Electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administration or ePMA for short is a computer system that enables medication to be managed electronically from prescribing through to supply and administration. The system is being supplied by the current provider of our PAS, Symphony, and pharmacy systems, Ascribe. We will be working closely with one another to ensure that a smooth transition takes place from the current paper method to paperless.We are the biggest Trust working with

records will be in one place, visible and accessible at any time where ever you are in the hospital.“We are looking for people to be champions for the project to assist with the rollout. So please get in touch if you are interested.”You can access details about the e-learning training, some frequently asked questions and the roll out plan on the dedicated HUB page, just search for EPMA.Contact Sumara on extension DPoW 2815 or email s.parvez@nhs.net

Benefits• More legible prescriptions • Alerts for contra-indications,

allergies, and drug interactions • Reduction in paperwork-related

problems, the information is always there, no more chart chasing

• Clearer, and more complete, audit trails of administration

• A reduction in the risk of medication errors

• Formulary guidance • Guidance for inexperienced

prescribers • Computerised communication

between hospital departments and the pharmacy department

• Improvements in the existing work processes

• Simple re-ordering of medication

Using technology to prescribe

Ascribe and we even have other Trusts coming from across the country to visit to see the positive work we are doing.All staff will need to be trained before receiving their username and password. There’s a training package on the Hub and

each ward must have an 80 per cent pass rate before the rollout.A dedicated team has been appointed to implement and manage the system. They have received medical and nursing support from a clinical advisory group which consists of doctors and nurses across the Trust.Sumara Parvez, assistant chief pharmacist and lead for the project said: “The main aim of this project is all about improving patient safety by providing clear and legible prescriptions, assistance in the prescribing process, and facilitation of the administration and supply of medicines. “The system also ensures that medicine

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Together we speak . . . Together we speak . . .

North Lincolnshire public governors Harold Edwards and Maureen Dobson have had an inside look at the hyperacute stroke unit at Scunthorpe hospital. They went to have a look round to see for themselves how the changes made last year have impacted on the unit, staff and patient care.Clinical lead for stroke Dr Asem Ali gave the governors a tour of the unit and here is Harold’s report.Changes in stroke care were implemented across Grimsby and Scunthorpe hospitals following the Sir Bruce Keogh report last year which identified the need for change. The changes saw hyperacute stroke services temporarily centralised at Scunthorpe from Grimsby hospital. This move was to ensure patients received high quality 24/7 hyperacute care. The future of stroke services will be decided as part of the Healthy Lifestyles, Healthy Future work which is being carried out by our commissioners - North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs).I was fortunate to sit on the stroke services steering group with Dr Ali. It was during one of these meetings that he invited me to look round the hyperacute stroke unit at Scunthorpe. My fellow governor Maureen Dobson also asked if she could come along too.On the day of our visit Dr Ali suggested we start from the point when a patient with a suspected stroke comes to the hospital - the emergency centre. He showed us round the resusication area and he explained that a patient would be seen by the emergency centre doctors, as well as a stroke responder. The patient is immediately hooked up to a whole array of highly technical expensive medical equipment.For me the really fascinating aspect was the telemedicine equipment which is like

a “super Skype” system as it ensures no time is lost if a doctor is not on site.Using cameras and TV screens it allows emergency centre doctors to liaise with stroke consultants out of hours.The consultant can be at home speaking and seeing the team and the patient. Together they can agree the best course of action.Once all diagnostic tests are urgently completed such as brain scans (CT or MRI), blood tests, ECG (electrocardiogram), chest x-ray or carotid doppler they can agree the best treatment plan.Depending on the results, medication can be given to help prevent the stroke from getting worse. The most common type of stroke, ischaemic stroke can be treated with a “clot busting” drug which dissolves the clots blocking the blood to the brain. This is known as thrombolysis treatment and the window of opportunity for this is four-and-a-half hours from the onset of symptoms.This is not suitable for all patients and if necessary they may be referred to the vascular team for surgery at Hull Royal Infirmary.Maureen and I were then shown around the hyperacute stroke unit which has si beds. It provides intensive nursing, medical and therapy care for the first 72 hours following the onset of stroke.We then took a look round the acute stroke unit which has 15 beds and provides post hyperacute care for

patients. It is here that a treatment plan for recovery is put in place and the team works with the patient to hopefully lower the risk of a further stroke.It is at this point that patients who have come to Scunthorpe from North East Lincolnshire or East Riding can go back to either Grimsby or Goole hospitals for rehabilitation and follow up care.I know when the changes were first implemeted people were worried about having to travel further for hyperacute stroke care.The unit at Scunthorpe is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day and personally I would recommend going that extra mile to get first class treatment.Dr Ali, together with the team, were inspiring and it was apparent they are dedicated and committed to ensuring local stroke patients get the best care possible.As part of Healthy Lives, Healthy Futures our commissioners have recommended that their preferred option is for the hyperacute service to remain at Scunthorpe hospital.They have undertaken a public consultation to gain the view of local residents and the results are now awaited.Personally, after having seen the unit and spoken to the staff, I have my fingers crossed that the hyperacute service remains at Scunthorpe.Harold Edwards, public governor for North Lincolnshire.

Members’ corner

Did you know?Did you know that as a member of the Trust you could save money thanks to massive great deals on the Health Service Discounts website?It is a great place to browse to find exclusives, discounts, brilliant deals and money-saving offers.It is totally free and simple to join.All you need to do is register for free at www.healthservicediscounts.com and then sit back and enjoy accessing a comprehensive range of discounts, benefits and money off vouchers.

Have your say in our member elections - your vote counts

Have your contact details changed?

The membership office aims to keep people up to date with the latest news from the Trust.To ensure you are not missing out please make sure you tell them about any changes to your contact details. You can send them a quick email to nlg-tr.foundationtrustoffice@nhs.net or you can ring them on (01724) 387946.

Inside view of stroke unit

Govenor Harold Edwards, clinical lead for stroke Dr Asem Ali and governor Maureen Dobson take a look at the telemedicine equipment in the emergency centre.

Governor helps launch new groupTrust Goole and Howdenshire governor Roy Taylor has rallied to a call from a local patient.He was asked to lend a hand, and his expertise, in helping to launch a new support group for people in Goole who have undergone an amputation.He arranged publicity and somewhere to meet and the inaugural meeting of the Goole and District Amputee Support Group was held in August.At that meeting chairperson Barbara Whitehead was elected, as well as secretary Ian Beaumont.The next meeting of the group is being held on Thursday October 9 between 6pm and 8pm in the conference room at Goole and District Hospital.Roy said: “The whole idea is for people to come together to talk about their experience and pass on tips on how they have managed with losing a limb.”If anyone would like further information they should ring Roy Taylor on (01405) 780599 or the group secretary Ian Beaumont on (01405) 760223.

People are being urged to have their say this month on who they want to represent them as a Trust public governor.The Trust is running elections for two public governor vacancies, one for North Lincolnshire and the other for North East Lincolnshire.Alison Hurley, membership manager, said: “We are only the second Trust in the country to pilot electronic elections so it is really exciting times for us.“It also brings cost savings for the Trust as we don’t have to pay for postage out to thousands of members.”If you want to have your say and have a chance to choose your local public governor you need to be registered as a Trust member. You also need to make

sure we have your email address where possible to allow electronic voting.If you are not a member and want to join

then go to: http://www.nlg.nhs.uk/about/membership/join/ or call us on 01724 387946. You must have registered as a Trust member by no later than October 10 to be able to nominate yourself as a prospective governor, or to be able to vote in the elections.The key dates include: • October 13 - deadline for receipt of

nominations• October 14 - publication of

statement of nominations• October 17 - deadline for candidate

withdrawals• October 28 - issue of ballot packs• November 20 - close of poll• November 21 - declaration of results.

Public governors Roy Taylor, John Frost and Helen Blow

Don’t miss out on dates for diary

There’s lots going on over the next couple of months for members’of the Trust.As well as the usual Council of Governor and Trust Board meetings, there are three members’ events being staged.There will be an update on end of life care, Parkinson’s disease and Dementia Friends.Alison Hurley, membership manager, said: “We will have our health professionals on hand from our hospitals providing people with the most up to date information about these topics.“People will be able to ask questions about the services we provide for patients coming to the end of life, as well as those living with Parkinson’s disease and dementia.”Alison said the events provided an informal, informative and interesting forum for Trust members to learn about a variety of health related topics. For details about the events turn to page 16 or ring (01724) 387946 for details.

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Member events for April and May

Trust Board of Directors meeting, main boardroom, Grimsby hospital. Check out our website for the times: www.nlg.nhs.uk

28Tuesday October

Member events for October and November

1.30pm to 2pm, members’ drop in sessions, lecture theatre, Grimsby hospital2pm to 3pm, members’ event on Parkinson’s disease, venue as above3pm to 5pm, governor and members’ forum, venue as above

Tuesday November

New senior managers appointed

Tuesday November 18

25

Members’ corner

Trust Board of Directors meeting, main boardroom, Scunthorpe hospital. Check out our website for the times: www.nlg.nhs.uk

27

Over the past couple of months various employees across the Trust have moved into new job roles. Here is quick update of the changes. They include:Angie Davies, former head of nursing for medicine at DPoW, takes up a new role as assistant director of nursing/head of quality with the chief nurse. Her role is to drive forward quality and to support the further improvements in the CQC reports.Marcus Hassall has been appointed as the director of finance. He was previously deputy director of finance at the Trust for three years. He has spent his entire career so far in NHS finance, having started as a finance trainee in Bradford. Pam Clipson has been permanently appointed to the role of director of strategy and planning after initially taking on the position on an interim basis.Pam has been with the Trust since starting

ThursdayNovember

Ward staff celebrate 600 days c-difficile free

Stroke unit at Grimsby

Ward 28 at ScunthorpeWards 23 at ScunthorpeWard 17 at Scunthorpe

Ward B4 at GrimsbyWard B3 at Grimsby

9am to 10am, members’ event on end of life care, in the lecture room at Goole hospital10am to 1pm, governor and members’ forum, venue as above

Tuesday November 11

1.30pm to 2pm, members’ drop-in session, in function room one, Pitwood House, Scunthorpe2pm to 3pm, members’ event with Dementia Friends, venue as above3pm to 5pm, governor and members’ forum, venue as above

Infection control

11Tuesday

November3pm to 6pm, Council of Govenors meeting, in the lecture room at Goole hospital

out as an apprentice straight from school in 1995. She has undertaken a number of roles over the years including assistant director of finance and performance, leading the Trust’s planning, contracting and information functions.Jug Johal is the new director of facilities. He joined the Trust in 2006 as transport manager and has worked his way up to a senior level. During his time within the NHS, Jug has won a number of prestigious awards including the Health Estates Facilities Management Association (HefmA) Project Manager of the Year.Lisa Jamieson has been appointed head of performance across the Trust and will lead on all aspects of performance and CQC assurance.Lisa has worked in a range of roles and organisations within the NHS over the last

24 years including most recently as the Trust’s quality improvement lead. Claire Phillips is enjoying her role as general manager to the surgery and critical care group across the Trust. Claire started her career at the Trust doing audit work for surgery and also for obstetrics and gynaecology. She then became a service manager in surgery before becoming general manager for women and children’s. Tracey Broom has been appointed as general manager of the diagnostics and therapeutics group. Over the years she has gone up through the ranks having held the positions of head of physiological measurements, audiology and cardiology, head of diagnostics and governance and interim general manager.Karen Fanthorpe has been appointed to the new post of deputy chief operating officer. She is currently the interim general manager for medicine, having previously held the role of general manager for community and therapy.

A total of 28 wards across the Trust are celebrating after being recognised for achieving a fabulous 600 days free of hospital acquired Clostridium difficile.Representatives from each of the wards welcomed chief nurse Dr Karen Dunderdale or deputy chief nurse Tara Filby to their area and accepted a certificate to mark their achievement.

Viv Duncanson, senior nurse for infection prevention and control, said: “This is a massive achievement by these wards and the certificates are the Trust’s way of recognising their tremendous time, commitment and effort in ensuring good infection control practices are enforced.“The certificates acknowledge the dedication the ward teams have shown in

their efforts towards minimising cases of Clostridium difficile in the Trust.”Viv added: “This is a real achievement which our staff should feel proud of. It clearly shows we are making good progress in reducing the number of hospital acquired infections. I hope the wards display their certificates with pride so our patients and visitors can see them.”

Our lead nurse for infection prevention and control has received national recognition for her efforts to ‘bust the bugs’.Viv Duncanson won a prestigious award at the Infection Prevention Society annual awards.She made it down to the final two in the practitioner of the year category and then went on to win on the night at the ceremony in Glasgow.Chief nurse Dr Karen Dunderdale said: “Viv has been a real driving force behind our efforts as a Trust to reduce the incidence of infections in our hospitals. I am very proud of her, this award is very much deserved.” As well as leading on strategies to reduce infections across our hospitals, Viv and her

Viv cleans up at awards ceremony Picture competitionCan you think of an infection control caption for this picture? Send your entries to viv.duncanson@nhs.net or in the internal post to Viv at Grimsby hospital, infection prevention and control. Entries must be received by no later than Friday November 7.The winner will receive a prize and the winning caption will be in the next magazine.

team have also introduced infection control awards to acknowledge the high standards of infection control practice that ward staff have achieved, launched campaigns that focus on good practice and have injected fun and innovative ways to educate staff like their own version of blockbusters, ‘bacteria busters’ and ‘policy on a page’.

Angie Davies Tracey BroomClaire PhillipsJug JohalMarcus Hassall

1918 Togetherwe care, we respect, we deliver

Picture box

Melody Redman, junior doctor emergency centre SGH

Did you know?You can read the full versions of Melody’s columns on the Yorkshire Post website. Just enter ‘Melody Redman Yorkshire Post’ into your search engine.

A day in the life of

A very muddy Terrie Ann Young, chaplaincy secretary, (pictured right) with her friend Sue Pickering. They took part in the ‘Pretty Muddy’ Race for Life held at Clumber Park. They completed the 5k course in an hour and 15 minute and have raised more than £200.

A supportive husband was ‘tickled pink’ when he decided to

grow his beard and dye it for charity. Nik Styles, of Scunthorpe,

took on the unique idea after his wife Hannah (pictured left)

was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2012 and received

support from the Pink Rose Suite in Grimsby. Through various

events which included the sponsored beard growing/dying

challenge, the couple raised £2,717 for the suite. Also pictured

right is Nik’s daughter Paige Bestwick-Styles.

The speech and language therapy team at Grimsby hospital held a stall in the canteen recently to raise awareness about communication disorders. They talked to people about the difficulties patients may face if they have had a stroke or have dementia, MS or Parkinson’s. Communication difficulties associated with these illnesses can include slurred speech and problems with expressing and understanding language. Staff offered advice and a chance to play with gadgets designed to support people who communicate using technology.

Grimsby hospital’s Parkinson’s fund has recieved a boost of

£300 thanks to the Humber branch of the Energy Institute.

Pictured are Institute secretary Tim Brant, consultant

lead for service Dr Shankar Kamath, Parkinson’s disease

nurse specialist Tracey Hughes and David Hughes institute

member.

Sharon Allen, who works in procurement at DPoW, has

raised more than £1,200 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

She biked from John O’Groats to Lands End non-stop in

20 hours and 30 minutes. She said: “I feel proud to be a

breast cancer survivor and to have achieved this challenge.

I hope it will show other ladies out there you can still do

what you did before the diagnosis and treatment, your life

doesn’t have to stop.”

Dr Melody Redman is a newly qualified junior doctor who started work in the emergency centre at Scunthorpe hospital in August.She’s been writing about her first impressions and experiences working in the NHS. Here we share some of the extracts from her column in the Yorkshire Post.At 8am I arrive at the emergency department fully armed for my first shift: A&E scrubs donned and ‘NHS’ proudly branded above my left chest pocket.Wide awake with enthusiasm, apprehension and excitement, I pick up the file for my first patient. The department is busy and Mr Smith, who has had a fall, has been waiting in a cubicle for an hour, which means I only have three hours until he breaches the four-hour national A&E time limit. I step into the cubicle and introduce myself. He is such a friendly chap that I immediately feel at ease. I listen to his explanation, ask questions and examine him.Then another staff member pops her head in, to politely remind me about the time constraints – he must be dealt with within four hours.That only leaves me with around two-and-a-half hours to do appropriate tests, diagnose what is wrong and make sure he has received the treatment he needs.While waiting for the X-ray to be

performed and uploaded onto the system, I go to see my next patient, who has been waiting. As I pop out to start the paperwork, a senior nurse approaches me and asks: “What is happening with Mr Smith? He is back from X-ray and we need to decide before he ‘breaches’ in 50 minutes.”Despite knowing the nurse is just doing her job (effectively), I immediately feel a sense of pressure and think, what if my very first patient breaches?While juggling jobs that need doing for my second patient, I review the X-ray and ask for a senior’s opinion. After we discuss Mr Smith’s case, we agree that he is fit to go home with some advice; he is noticeably very relieved.With plenty of time to spare, the patient is discharged from the department and does not breach the four-hour limit. Phew! It is challenging when you know that you only have a maximum of four hours per patient, but want to provide the best possible care you can for each one.Mr Smith completed a ‘Friends and Family Test’, a survey where patients are asked if they would recommend the service to family or friends in similar situations, and had thanked me by name on the card.I am so touched and encouraged to have this palpable representation of my first patient as a junior doctor,

Get in touchAre you organising a cheque presentation on your ward/department? Then get in touch with the communications team on (01724) 387739 and let us know so we can pop along with our camera.

and it has really highlighted to me how important feedback is.“I will remember that I do not treat a fever chart, a cancerous growth, but a sick human being…” I have been trained throughout medical school to see the patient as a whole – considering various aspects that include biological, social, psychological and spiritual issues. Mr Brown arrived in A&E as a result of chest pain. I wanted to spend time looking at the best options for Mr Brown’s long-term health problems, to try to improve his quality of life. He was such a lovely gentleman and I wanted to reassure him that he was valuable.However, once the chest pain was dealt with appropriately, Mr Brown had to be discharged from A&E and was advised to visit his GP and seek advice and treatment there for his other health issues.I know I dealt with the cause for admission to A&E, but I would like to have done more for him.While I recognise the role of an A&E doctor, I am determined that a patient will always be more than a set of symptoms, a condition, or a diagnosis. Names have been changed to protect the identity of patients.

Flu kills…Influenza is dangerous, highly contagious and largely preventable. You can carry and pass the virus onto others without having any symptoms yourself, so even if you consider yourself healthy, you might be risking the lives of others.

Protect yourself, your family, colleagues and patients.

Be a flu fighter. Get your flu jab.

Watch out for the Flu Fighters who will be visiting wards and departments throughout October to vaccinate frontline staff.

For more information ring occupational health on:

Staff at SGH/GDH ext 2210Staff at DPOW ext 7986

Togetherwe care, we respect, we deliver

Flu Fighter Poster.indd 1 11/09/2014 14:48