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NEWS FOR NHS LANARKSHIRE STAFF • JULY/AUGUST 2011
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Motherwell FC backs mental health site
Home comforts for troops abroad
Better way to care for elderly Balance of care to be shifted away from acute hospitals STAFF across NHS Lanarkshire took part in two events in June to look at how we reshape older people’s care. The all-day events – one in North Lanarkshire and one in South – brought together colleagues from local authorities, the independent care sector, the voluntary sector, carers and members of the public to talk about the challenges and solutions to providing an improved service for older people and their carers. The government has given L anarkshire £7.8 million to achieve this. The initiative is called the Change Fund and will shift the balance of care from residential settings by providing more community-based services to help people stay in their
ALSO INSIDE
own homes and get home from hospital earlier. Colin Sloey, executive director of North Lanarkshire Community Health Partnership (CHP), said: “As our population is ageing and more people are living with long-term conditions, such as dementia, we have to change the way in which services are provided. “We have to further strengthen the partnership working between colleagues in housing, social work and the voluntary and independent sectors to achieve this.” Action to improve health and wellbeing to support people’s independence is crucial. Community planning partnerships need to develop safe and effective options
ARMED FORCES DAY: Keep Well nurse Kathleen Quinn (right) at the ceremony with members of the armed forces, cadets and (from left, back) NHS Lanarkshire’s Kevin O’Neill and Ken Corsar
WE SHOW OUR SUPPORT NHS Lanarkshire chairman Ken Corsar took part in a flag-raising ceremony to mark Armed Forces Day at the end of June. The joint event by NHS Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) was organised to pay tribute to the efforts of the armed forces. It took place outside SLC’s corporate headquarters in Almada Street, Hamilton, and representatives from both organisations were joined by former servicemen and women
and reservists from Lanarkshire who had left the armed forces and returned to civilian life. Ken Corsar said: “The aim of Armed Forces Day is to boost public support and appreciation of all those who serve and have served in HM armed forces – and it’s an aim we wholly support.” At the event, NHS Lanarkshire also had a range of stalls which provided mini-physical health checks, smoking cessation advice and information on mental health and substance misuse.
The aim of Armed Forces Day is to boost public support and appreciation of all those who serve and have served in HM armed forces and it’s an aim we wholly support
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2,
NEWS ACROSS THE DIVISIONS • TRAINING UPDATE • YOUR STORIES • YOUR GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS
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Contents
DISHING OUT: healthy food hub opens in Airdrie. See page 8
2-9 GENERAL NEWS Efficient dictation; better approach to hand hygiene; efforts to fight fraud; how we aim to get it right for every child; COPD pilot praised by patient; and new MRSA screening programme.
10-11 MENTAL HEALTH FOCUS Efforts on dealing with dementia as well as proposals to modernise mental health services.
12-14 LOCAL, DISTRICT AND PARTNERSHIP NEWS Equipment boost thanks to donations from cancer patients; support packages for the troops; and winning artwork from pupils.
17 COMPETITIONS Win a free Italian dinner and beauty treatments.
20 ACHIEVEMENTS Step-count challenge and foot expert recognised.
Editorial policy As the staff newspaper of NHS Lanarkshire, The Pulse aims to celebrate the work and achievements of staff and services. It also shares information about the changes and issues that affect staff at work. We would like to hear your thoughts and suggestions about the kind of stories you would like to see in The Pulse. Contact the team (below) with your stories, comments and ideas.
Got a story?
If you have any ideas, stories or features you would like to see included, or would just like to tell us what you think of The Pulse, please get in touch with a member of the editorial team... Martin Stirling 01698 858108 Michelle Nobes (Hairmyres) 01355 585325
Christine McNeill (Monklands) 01236 713065 Yvonne Ross (Wishaw General) 01698 366558
The deadline for contributions to the next issue Friday 12 August.
NEW HO AT KIRKLANDS All staff have now relocated to Bothwell THE relocation of NHS Lanarkshire staff to a new a headquarters at Kirklands Hospital in Bothwell has now been completed. Staff working in corporate departments at the former HQ at Beckford Street, Strathclyde Hospital and Cleland Hospital have all made the move. The demolition of the remaining buildings at Strathclyde Hospital, which had been used for corporate services functions, began in June. No patient services have been moved and the Dalziel Centre Day Hospice and Lymphoedema Service at Strathclyde Hospital site, and the older people’s complex needs inpatient service at Cleland Hospital, will continue to operate from these sites.
NHS Lanarkshire director of Strategic Implementation, Performance and Planning, Ian Ross, said: “The relocation of staff to our new headquarters at Kirklands Hospital, Bothwell is now complete. “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank all staff involved in the transfers which went very smoothly and had minimal impact on our corporate functions.” Ian continued: “Our corporate departments were previously divided across a number of sites such as Beckford Street, Strathclyde, Cleland and in the acute hospitals. “This resulted in a considerable amount of travel across the sites to attend meetings, work groups and for communications with
colleagues. In addition, the duplication and use of equipment across the sites was inefficient. “The centralisation of headquarters functions will enable the rationalisation of the estate in accordance with NHS Lanarkshire’s property strategy. “We expect to achieve significant revenue savings of more than £2m within the first five years of the centralisation through improved working practices and redesign of service provision. “We also expect significant capital receipts from the sale of the vacant sites at Strathclyde and Cleland. “In the meantime, the accommodation at Beckford Street will continue to be utilised.”
We’re changing care for elderly CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1, that prevent admission and speed up discharges from acute settings. This includes improved access to appropriate home care and treatment packages and support for carers. All of these elements were discussed at the events and will be taken forward through the reshaping care for older people steering group. Alan Lawrie, executive director of South Lanarkshire CHP, added: “We need to provide sustainable services that older people are telling us they want and we need to focus
on supporting independent living.” Graham Ellis, consultant geriatrician at Monklands Hospital, attended both events to talk about his pilot of providing acute hospital services at home. The initiative is designed to prevent older people being admitted to hospital after a crisis, such as a fall, and provides specialist nursing, consultant and allied health professional support in the patient’s home. He said: “Over the last decade there has been a 25 per cent increase in admissions from over 75 year olds. That is the national average.
“However, the figure for NHS Lanarkshire is 45 per cent.” By investing in community services, it is anticipated there will be a reduction in the number of older people’s beds across Lanarkshire by 220. Rosemary Lyness, director of acute services, added: “This is a significant challenge and we know that we can only achieve this bed reduction by ensuring that we have the right community support in place and that there is an integration of services to support the routine and complex care that older people require.”
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Progress made at Hairmyres Unannounced HEI inspection produces positive results Did you know? The recent HEI visit found that a new domestic cleaning schedule has strengthened working between domestic staff and nursing staff
Getting on their bikes THE move to the new Kirklands headquarters has inspired three members of staff to cycle to work. Martin Stirling (left), Michelle Reilly and Stephen Palmer have all decided to try and commute to work by bike at least one day a week. It not only saves them money but improves their fitness. If you would like to cycle, remember NHS Lanarkshire has a cycle-to-work scheme. To find out more, see the travel section on FirstPort or go to www.cyclescheme.co.uk
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NHS Lanarkshire has set out a detailed action plan following the Healthcare Environment Inspectorate’s (HEI) report on Hairmyres Hospital. The HEI made an unannounced inspection visit to Hairmyres Hospital on 13 April 2011. Susan Brimelow, HEI chief inspector, said: “We found that progress has been made at Hairmyres Hospital since we last inspected it in May 2010. “Patients with known infections are being risk assessed and cared for appropriately in dedicated isolation facilities and a new domestic cleaning schedule has been introduced. “However, our inspection also highlighted areas that still require improvement, including poor staff awareness of environmental audits and out-of-date information in the infection control manual.” NHS Lanarkshire has revised the system of review dates for the policies within its infection prevention and control manual so that these reflect the date by which the policy review is to be completed. NHS Lanarkshire’s nurse consultant for healthcare associated infection, Jan Clarkson, said: “I would stress that none of the policies were out of date, and were under review at the time of the inspection. The revised system should remove any confusion about this.” For the second year running, NHS Lanarkshire has successfully exceeded the Scottish Government HEAT target for reducing Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemias, which includes MRSA. NHS Lanarkshire is also currently outperforming the Scottish Government HEAT target for reducing Clostridium difficile infections. Tim Davison, chief executive of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “The HEI highlighted areas of good practice where we are complying with national healthcare associated infection standards to protect patients, staff and visitors from the risk of acquiring an infection.”
NEW WASTE CONTRACT RECYCLING your domestic waste within NHS Lanarkshire’s sites will be a lot easier from now on. A new waste disposal contract with Viridor means staff at most sites – with the exception of Kirklands, Law House and Beckford Street – no longer need to separate domestic waste into different bins for recycling purposes. And NHS Lanarkshire, the first health board in Scotland to sign-up to such an initiative, also expects to save £60,000 a year on its waste disposal costs. Colin Forrest, NHS Lanarkshire’s head of technical services, said: “This is a major step forward in our waste management and recycling processes. “Staff at most sites, except for
Kirklands, Law House and Beckford Street, can now put non-recyclable waste into the same containers as recyclable waste; with this being sorted out at Viridor’s Materials Recycling Facility in Bargeddie. “At Kirklands, Law House and Beckford Street staff should continue to separate their paper, cardboard, plastic cups, cans and plastic bottles in the recycling bins provided and place all other waste in the general waste bins.” A review of the waste-disposing processes at Kirklands, Law and Beckford Street will be undertaken in the near future.
There will be more information about this new contract in the next edition of The Pulse.
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Working changes
LOUD AND CLEAR: Lynne Docherty, sitting, types up notes from the new digital dictation device, with Anne Laird watching on
THE Administration Improvement Programme within the acute division is still looking at new ways of working. All administration staff have now been trained on the use of digital dictation and new standards have been developed to help staff identify how they should be working. Stuart Keys, programme manager, said: “The aim of the review is to reduce reliance on bank and temporary staff and achieve cash savings for NHS Lanarkshire. “Site groups have been established at each hospital to review working practices and oversee any changes. “The standards include details of the handling of casenotes, the use of templates for all patient letters and how to balance workloads. “The introduction of the new Trakcare system is also anticipated to impact on the ways of working for administration staff within the hospitals, particularly in relation to patient booking.” Full details of the review, including the new work standards can be found on FirstPort at the following link http://firstport/sites/aip/default.aspx
Sound practice Digital dictation devices have transformed how we use audio notes and made services more reliable and practical SECRETARIAL staff within NHS Lanarkshire Women’s Services division have benefited from the introduction of digital dictation technology over the course of a year-long pilot. Now the scheme is to be rolled out to all relevant secretarial staff in Wishaw General, Monklands and Hairmyres hospitals, as part of the Administration Improvement Programme operating within the acute division.
Anne Laird, directorate support manager at Wishaw, said: “Both the secretarial and the medical staff who have been using the digital dictation devices have been very positive about them and we’re sure this will continue when they’re rolled out across the three acute sites. “While consultants continue to dictate into the digital devices in the same way as the analogue machines, there are some important differences. “By being able to scan barcodes on patient casenotes, their audio recordings are filed under these codes. Secretaries can then find the relevant recording without having to search through an entire tape. “In addition, when the consultant places the digital device in a docking station, the audio clips are downloaded on to a central system, meaning they can be accessed immediately – and from different locations.”
Lynne Docherty, who works as medical secretary in the gynaecology department, has used the new digital dictation devices throughout the pilot. She said: “With audio devices you need to wait until the tapes come back before you can start typing letters. “Now, even if the consultant has another clinic at a different location, you can type them as soon as they’re needed. “It could take a while to go
Both the secretarial and the medical staff who have been using the digital dictation devices have been very positive about them
through an audio tape to find the right recording but now you just see a list of all the recordings when you log into the system and can choose whichever one is needed urgently. “The actual sound is much clearer as well so it makes it a lot easier to type up.” Consultant gynaecologist Chris Lennox agrees. He said: “It’s a great improvement on the analogue system. The audio tapes were not the most reliable, they could jam, or be lost. “On occasion, you’d spend an hour dictating notes only to find something had happened to the tape and there was nothing there. “You also don’t have to post the tapes if you’re out at clinics for a few days, which could cause delays in sending out letters, and – by being able to scan barcodes – it makes it a much more reliable system as notes cannot be mixed up.”
POSITIVE NOISES MANY patients have expressed their appreciation for the work of staff within the primary care division. Maxine Kinnoch, practice development practitioner, said: “We want to highlight the caring and compassionate practices which have been appreciated by our patients and their relatives. “In the last issue of The Pulse, we highlighted some of the comments of praise for staff working in the acute hospitals. Here, we’re highlighting some of those received for primary care staff.” • “I could not have recovered as well as I did without the kindness, love, friendship and strength the staff showed me.” Udston Hospital patient. • “From sorrow to joy, from hopelessness to happiness, this is what you have all done for my family.” Patient at the Dalziel Centre Day Hospice. • “Words can never express our gratitude for your kindness, compassion, caring and thoughtfulness.” Family of person treated by Macmillan community nursing team. Maxine would like to hear about patient experiences in your area. To share comments, contact her at 01698 201417, 07979 402935, or email
[email protected]
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BIG HAND FOR HYGIENE GAME New software takes you through the five key elements of hand cleanliness STAFF’s hand hygiene technique will soon be under the spotlight through the National Hand Hygiene audit. Currently, boards are audited every two months to see whether staff are taking the opportunity to perform hand hygiene at the right moments. From November 2011, the audit will include technique as well. Mary MacLean, hand hygiene co-ordinator, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “The target for the current opportunity-only based audit is 90 per cent – and we’ve found each time that the vast majority of NHS Lanarkshire staff are performing hand hygiene when they should. “The new audit system shifts the focus to also include ‘how’ staff perform hand hygiene. “Health Protection Scotland will have a target for all NHS boards to achieve 95 per cent or better compliance for a combination of opportunity and technique.” Sustaining good compliance with hand-hygiene standards is recognised worldwide as an ongoing challenge. As part of a new initiative to emphasis the importance of hand hygiene and recognise the efforts of staff, the senior charge nurse of NHS Lanarkshire wards that meet the national audit target will receive a
letter from Joan James, divisional nurse director – acute. An A4 laminated poster, signed by chief executive Tim Davison, will also be displayed at the ward entrance for the following two months until the next audit period. Mary said: “We need to keep reinforcing the hand-hygiene message because it really does save lives. “All staff should be aware of the World Health Organisation’s key moments for hand hygiene which are a key element of the NHS Lanarkshire hand-hygiene policy (section H of the infection control manual) which can be found on the Healthcare Associated Infection site on FirstPort.” NHS Lanarkshire staff can refresh their awareness of the key moments for hand hygiene with an online game launched by the National Patient Safety Agency. The “Wi-Five?” game is part of their Clean Your Hands campaign. It has both ward and community versions that test your knowledge of the key moments.
INTERACTIVE: Mary McLean demonstrates the new online hand hygiene game that tests your knowledge of the key moments
To play the game go to www.npsa.nhs.uk/ cleanyourhands/resource-area/wi-fivegame where there is also a full explanation of the five key moments.
New dual-lever faucet is tip-tap
UPGRADE: An intensive therapy unit nurse at Monklands demonstrates the new tap
A NEW clinical hand-washing tap will be introduced across the three acute hospital sites. The recently opened Haematology Ward at Monklands Hospital is the latest to feature the very different looking tap. All future clinical wash-basin upgrades across the three NHS Lanarkshire hospitals will also feature this faucet. It has been designed to help prevent the spread of infection through its novel dual-lever operation and its ease of cleaning and maintenance. The tap contains an integral
thermostatic mixing valve that automatically blends the incoming 60˚C hot water supply down to a safe and comfortable 41˚C at the point of discharge. Warm-water handwash requires only the left-hand, red lever – while the right-hand, blue lever delivers dedicated cold water for cold-water handwash, drinking and teeth cleaning. A combined flow regulatorconditioner in the tap outlet ensures that the water falls in a uniform column into the basin at an adequate rate for handwashing which avoids splashing.
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Top quality
In brief…
Training time
NHS Lanarkshire has established a Quality Improvement Hub and, though it has a baffling name, it has a very important role to play. So what is a quality hub? It is more a case of: Who is the hub? It is made up of a group of clinicians and managers from across NHS Lanarkshire. Led by medical director Alison Graham, it includes representatives from clinical governance, risk management, primary care, acute and practice development. Their role is to provide leadership for quality improvement in Lanarkshire. Why have a hub? NHSScotland launched its Healthcare Quality Strategy in May 2010 and the quality hub is one of the ways that NHS Lanarkshire will ensure it is implementing the strategy to benefit patients. The strategy can be found at http://firstport/sites/NHSScotland QualityStrategy/default.aspx What does the hub actually do? Still in the early stages, it has concentrated on looking at what NHS Lanarkshire’s quality improvement priorities should be. It will also work on ensuring a co-ordinated and consistent approach to all Lanarkshire quality initiatives, such as the Scottish Patient Safety Programme. For more information about the hub, its membership or remit, contact Pamela Milliken, head of clinical governance and risk management, on 01698 858100 or Kirsty Cole, organisational development manager, on 01698 377815.
LAUNCH: From left, David Bingham, Shamim Rashid, Syra Gahlan, Katrina McCourt, Tracy Ann Kidd and Aisha Ali
Graduation day
Minorities get the lowdown A NEW booklet will ensure Lanarkshire’s black and minority ethnic communities are aware of the full range of healthcare services available to them. Using Healthcare Services in Lanarkshire was produced by NHS Lanarkshire and the Terence Higgins Trust (THT) Scotland. Katrina McCourt, health promotion specialist with THT Scotland, said: “There is an expanding population of black and minority ethnic communities living in Lanarkshire. “Many people from these communities have only recently taken up residency in the UK and are unaware of the healthcare services available to them, especially when it comes to
identifying specialist health services such as sexual health.” Tracy Ann Kidd, health promotion officer with NHS Lanarkshire’s blood borne virus and sexual health team, added: “It was important to develop a local resource for these communities that was culturally sensitive and where sexual health was considered within the wider context of general health. “Also, by providing translated resources, it means that communities are able to have information in their own language, which will enable them to access services.” The new booklet was launched at the Motherwell Heritage Centre on 1 June.
A group of local black and minority ethnic communities, NHS Lanarkshire staff and voluntary sector agencies who had been involved in the development of the booklet were invited along to the event. A PDF of the booklet is available to download in the resources section of the Lanarkshire sexual health website www.lanarkshire sexualhealth.org The booklet is available in seven languages: English, French, Polish, Swahili, Urdu, Punjabi and Chinese. Hard copies of the booklet are also available by contacting Katrina at the THT Glasgow office on 0141 332 3838.
FIGHT FRAUD
Counter Fraud Services perform a vital function for the NHS NHS fraud costs the health service millions of pounds every year, which could mean some people not receiving the NHS treatment that they are entitled to and deserve. NHSScotland Counter Fraud Services (CFS) provides a full service to NHSScotland through a centrally based, professionally accredited team of specialists dedicated only to deterring, detecting and investigating fraud within NHSScotland. Examples of some typical NHS frauds would be a health service practitioner claiming payment for services they have not provided, a patient claiming exemption from NHS charges incorrectly or a member of staff undertaking
ALL staff in NHS Lanarkshire should undertake some level of Adult Support and Protection Training. For more information, visit FirstPort – Clinical Services – Adult Support and Protection. In addition, a new staff information leaflet has been devised to update staff on their duties under the Adult Support and Protection Act. This leaflet can be accessed on the Adult Support and Protection FirstPort site within All Documents – Adult Support and Protection Training Information.
alternative employment in NHS contracted time. NHS Lanarkshire engages throughout the year with CFS, regarding both current and potential fraud related cases. Fraud liaison officer Morag Holmes and counter fraud champion Laura Ace, NHS Lanarkshire’s director of finance, meet with their counterparts from the other Scottish health boards every six months to share experience and discuss best practice. There is a range of confidential routes available to staff who wish to ask for advice or to report suspected fraud activity: q Your line manager
q Your human resources manager q NHS Counter Fraud Services q Fraud Hotline on 08000 15 16 28 q The CFS website at www.cfs.scot. nhs.uk
q NHS Lanarkshire’s fraud liaison officer Morag Holmes on 01698 858247. All information provided is treated in the strictest of confidence and staff who raise genuine concerns are protected by law – regardless of the outcome of any investigation that they initiate. Go to the fraud area on NHS Lanarkshire’s intranet to link to NHS Scotland Counter Fraud Services website and view a copy of our fraud policy.
Counter fraud champion Laura Ace
WISHAW General Hospital held a graduation event when eight individuals completed their NHS Lanarkshire Project Search programme. The Project Search steering group is a one-year, education transition programme which provides training and education for students with disabilities to help them find employment. Over the course of a year, the eight students rotated through a series of job placements which offered them on-thejob experience of work skills combined with classroom tuition. Donna Patrick, recruitment development manager, said: “The current employment rate for disabled people is 48 per cent and the Government has set a goal to increase radically the number of people with moderate and severe learning disabilities in employment by 2025. “We are delighted that three of the students have now found work as a result of this course.”
Packed with info A NEW educational pack which provides the latest information on blood-borne viruses (BBVs) for clinicians and healthcare professionals is now available. The long-term outlook and treatment for individuals with BBVs – HIV, Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B – has changed remarkably over the years. However, it is important that these viruses are diagnosed quickly and that all doctors and nurses should be able to obtain informed consent for a BBV test in the same way that they currently do for any other medical investigation. The blood-borne virus educational resource pack will be distributed to medical staff, acute wards, midwives, community nursing teams and to addiction teams.
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GETTING IT RIGHT
We’re working together to stop children ending up on the wrong track LANARKSHIRE is leading the way when it comes to putting Getting It Right For Every Child (Girfec) into practice. North and South Lanarkshire Councils together with NHS Lanarkshire hosted an event to mark the full implementation phase of Girfec – a national programme to ensure parents, carers and professionals work together to give children and young people the best start and improve their opportunities in life. At the heart of Girfec is the child and their needs – with a determination to make sure that every young person is safe, healthy, achieving, nurtured, active, respected, responsible and included. To achieve this, the two councils and NHS Lanarkshire have built on their tradition of working in partnership. A toolkit has been launched that enables managers in each of the agencies to put Girfec into practice by providing everything that has been learned so far – including a full library of all the resources available. Across Lanarkshire, 10 locality groups involving local managers from health, education and social work now meet together regularly. As well as planning and evaluating local services, they deal on a day-to-day basis with how best to support individual children whatever their needs. Minister for children and young people Angela Constance, who attended the launch, said: “I am delighted to be here to see the launch of the Lanarkshire Learning Partnership toolkit.
The vice-chair of Lanarkshire NHS Board, Neena Mahal, third from the right, met with representatives from North Lanarkshire Council and South Lanarkshire Council at the launch event for Getting it Right for Every Child in Lanarkshire
The toolkit will help staff from all agencies to work together to support children from the earliest possible point, not responding to the consequences later on “If we get the early years right, it will prevent children from ending up on the wrong track in life and
help support successful futures. “That is why such partnerships are so important – professionals
Support team thanks 650,000 carers NHS Lanarkshire Carer Support Team helped recognise and celebrate the contribution of Scotland’s 650,000 carers during Carers’ Week in June. Various events and information stalls were held throughout Lanarkshire to help raise awareness of the vital work of carers. If you wish to discuss a carer issue, or are looking for more information on the support available for carers, contact one of the following departments: q Hairmyres Hospital Elaine Harrow, 01355 585522, elaine.
[email protected] q North Community Health Partnership North Lanarkshire
Elaine Harrow, co-ordinator for Carers at Hairmyres Hospital, said: “Carers play a huge role in providing care, dedicating much of their time to help look after someone who would otherwise be unable to care for themselves. “However, many carers don’t see themselves as carers, even though the
work they do can have a detrimental affect on their own health. “The NHS Lanarkshire Carer Support Team can offer a wide range of advice and help to carers. “During Carers’ Week, as well as celebrating the work carers do, we raised awareness of the type of support and advice that is available.”
Carers Together, 01698 404055,
[email protected] q Monklands Hospital Lesley Callan, 01236 748748, lesley.callan @lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk q Wishaw General Elizabeth Macdonald, 01698 361100, elizabeth.
[email protected] q South CHP, South Lanarkshire
Carers Network Linda Craig,
[email protected] or 01698 285163, www.slcn.co.uk q North Lanarkshire Young Carers Allison Smith, 01698 258801, allison.
[email protected] q South Lanarkshire Young Carers Barbara McAuley, 01698 455455, youngcarerservice@south lanarkshire.gov.uk
brought together to help ensure the best outcomes for every child.” Neena Mahal, vice chair of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “The toolkit will help staff from all agencies to work together to support children from the earliest possible point, not responding to the consequences later on. “In achieving this, we recognise
and appreciate how important our early years’ workforce is – from our midwives and public health nurses to playgroup leaders, partnership nurseries, early years’ education staff and social workers – as well as our partners in the voluntary sector. Working together we will make a difference for Lanarkshire’s children.”
IT’S A YOU could be £5000 richer this September by signing up for the NHS Lanarkshire staff lottery. Each month, one lucky NHS Lanarkshire staff member wins £2500. However, each September the NHS Staff Benefits Lottery holds a bumper annual draw and this year the top prize is a fantastic £5000. Anne Quinn, administration manager with NHS Staff Benefits, said: “Each month staff win thousands of pounds in the lottery draw. “It’s really easy to sign up and the money is deducted straight from your wages so you don’t have to worry about buying a ticket every single month. “Any winnings you receive are paid with your monthly salary. To have a chance at winning, complete your application today.”
In addition to the top prize every month, there are prizes of £500, £250 and 10 winners of £100. The NHS Lanarkshire staff lottery costs only £1.20 for each chance to win. In June, Rosemary Findlay scooped the top prize, Helen Freer won £500 and Jane Sullivan won £250. Each month the winners are displayed on the staff benefits website under the “Lottery” tab. New members, or current members who wish to add additional chances, will need to have submitted their application form by the 5 August to be included in the bumper September draw. To join the lottery, visit www.nhsstaffbenefits.co.uk and complete the application form.
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NHS takes on care of prisoners PLANS are progressing well to transfer responsibility for prisoner healthcare at Her Majesty’s Prison Shotts to NHS Lanarkshire. The NHS will provide healthcare for all prisoners in Scotland from 1 November 2011. The healthcare of prisoners is currently the responsibility of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS). The final Lanarkshire plan for the transfer was submitted to the Scottish Government in April 2011. In Lanarkshire, the transfer means that 22 health staff currently employed at the SPS at Shotts will become NHS Lanarkshire employees. Four SPS staff who are transferring are currently undertaking Minor/Major Injury/Illness Nurse Treatment Service (MINTS) training with very positive feedback. Staff from SPS also recently completed NHS Lanarkshire training in psychological therapies. A full induction programme for SPS staff transferring to NHS Lanarkshire is currently being developed. NHS Lanarkshire Staff Bank has begun providing cover to Shotts prison health staff. This has allowed the prison to stop using agency staff. Work is under way to develop the model of medical support for the prison. Further work is being done to align addictions services for prisoners. Other progress includes a new salaried general dental practitioner post to work in the prison which will soon be advertised. NHS Lanarkshire will also take responsibility for providing allied health professions services to prisoners. However, existing AHP local contracts for the prison will remain in place. Alan Lawrie, director of South Lanarkshire Community Health Partnership and lead executive for the transfer, said: “The transfer will provide a more consistent healthcare service to individuals whether they are in prison or in the community.” NHS Lanarkshire is also working with Her Majesty’s Prison Addiewell to ensure appropriate through care, such as registering with a GP, for patients leaving the prison. Although Addiewell is in West Lothian, about 80 per cent of prisoners return to Lanarkshire on release. For information on the National Programme of Prisoner Healthcare, visit www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/ Health/NHS-Scotland/SPSHealth
FINE FARE: food hub in Airdrie gives people healthy alternatives
HUB DISHES UP A HEALTHY FUTURE A NEW community food hub aimed at encouraging and promoting healthy eating has opened in Airdrie. The Hub in the Chapelside Centre includes: q A community café which will prepare and sell healthy affordable food q A food co-operative which will provide fresh fruit and vegetables q A community kitchen which will employ a nutritionist who will give
cooking demonstrations on how to prepare healthy meals. The community kitchen will also feature a ‘mobile kitchen’ which will travel around the area giving individuals and community groups cooking classes. The food Hub is a partnership between NHS Lanarkshire, the Lanarkshire Community Food and Health Partnership, Cornerstone and North Lanarkshire Council’s
Community Learning & Development and Locality Support Service (Disability). Its aim is to tackle social and health inequalities in Lanarkshire. NHS Lanarkshire health improvement senior Carol Chamberlain said: “This project not only provides affordable healthy food but also provides an environment where people can learn about food and healthy eating,
gain cooking skills and get experience and confidence in cooking and food preparation. “This will help them to improve their diet and live a healthier life.” The food available in the community café will also be prepared by people being supported towards employment by Cornerstone, a charity and a leading provider of services for people with disabilities and other support needs.
PILOT PRAISED Pioneering project gives patient a new lease on life AN EAST Kilbride man has praised a pilot which he has credited with giving him a new lease of life. Hugh Orr, 74, suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which narrows the lungs and leaves him short of breath.
I now know that doing some basic exercises every day helps keep the lungs active which makes breathing easier
It is estimated to affect more than 11,000 people across Lanarkshire. NHS Lanarkshire set up the pilot in East Kilbride to give those diagnosed with COPD an opportunity to learn more about their condition, recognise and manage their symptoms, give them the opportunity to consider their lifestyle choices as well as advice on how best to maintain their quality of life. Entitled the Community Respiratory Patient Education and Self Management Pilot, it is one that Hugh says he’s indebted to. The retired coach and van driver said: “This has really helped me.
BREATHING BETTER: Hugh with his dog Skye
“I now know that doing some basic exercises every day helps keep the lungs active which makes breathing easier.
“I also know the signs to watch out for when an attack is possible. “It means I can take steps to avert it or manage it better when it does come. “It’s these sorts of steps which the pilot teaches you and it’s made such huge impact on my life.” Maureen Carroll, the respiratory network manager based in Hairmyres Hospital, described the pilot. She said: “It’s a one-off session, so people don’t have to make a massive time commitment. “Some patients will also be signposted and/or referred to other appropriate services as required.”Picture caption:
For more information on the Community Respiratory Patient Education and Self Management pilot, call the appointment line on 01355 585186.
GENERAL NEWS
JULY/AUGUST 2011
thePulse
9
SCREENING SET TO HALT THE SPREAD New approach to tackling MRSA has been launched A NEW MRSA screening protocol is being introduced in Lanarkshire. NHS Lanarkshire’s MRSA surveillance team explains why screening and the new protocol have a key role to play in tackling healthcare associated infection. Lesley MacGregor, MRSA surveillance nurse, Hairmyres Hospital, said: “MRSA is a very clever organism. Its ability to mutate and evolve means that we must always be monitoring and challenging practice to reduce the burden of MRSA to our patients. It is to our patients that our responsibility lies.” Julie Burns, MRSA surveillance nurse, Wishaw General Hospital, said: “MRSA is a major concern for patients being admitted to hospital, so ensuring that we are taking a positive step by screening for MRSA will help reduce fears and anxieties. MRSA screening allows us to manage patients appropriately, reducing the risk of self-infection and transmission to others.” Rachel Nicholls, MRSA surveillance nurse, Monklands Hospital,
Your thoughts The Pulse asked staff at Monklands about MRSA screening and the best ways of reducing the risk of infections.
said: “The change to the MRSA screening programme should provide early identification of those patients who are at greatest risk from MRSA infections. An additional benefit is a decreased workload for healthcare staff if the clinical risk assessment tool is applied appropriately.” Carrie McCulloch, MRSA project manager, said: “There is huge public interest and support on the subject of MRSA screening. Our staff are enthusiastic about reducing the risk of infection for our patients. Indeed, some staff have already approached the MRSA team to implement the new protocol in their area.” The screening programme was welcomed by patient Morag Murnin when she attended the preassessment unit in Monklands Hospital. She said: “This is a really good idea that will make a real difference for patients and help reduce infection.”
Audrey Neilson, biomedical scientist, (pictured left) said: “There are a number of things that people can do when coming into hospital, either as a patient, a visitor or a staff member. “Washing your hands properly and avoiding sitting on patient beds are two of the obvious ones. “I think it’s also important that people are not afraid to question things. If you think a doctor or nurse hasn’t washed their hands correctly, or if you see something that doesn’t look clean, you should say something to make sure the correct procedures are being followed.”
AUDREY NEILSON: ‘It’s important that people question things’
For more information, visit www.hps.scot.nhs.uk/haiic/sshaip/ mrsascreeningprogramme.aspx
Need to know – the vital new protocol Why are we screening for MRSA? The programme aims to identify asymptomatic carriers of MRSA to reduce cross transmission within hospital populations and reduce infection risk for individuals during their hospital stay. The results of screening inform patient placement when the patient is admitted and allows decolonisation to be undertaken for patients who are found positive on admission or pre-admission. What does the new protocol involve? Every patient who is admitted and stays more than 24 hours in an acute hospital requires to have a three-question clinical risk assessment (CRA) undertaken. If they answer yes to any of the questions, then a swab from the nose and perineum should be
ON THE LOOKOUT: MRSA screening nurses, from left, Lesley MacGregor, Hairmyres, Julie Burns, Wishaw General, and Rachel Nicholls, Monklands
obtained for laboratory testing. If the patient has in-dwelling devices or wounds a sample of this should also be taken. Are there any exceptions to this? Yes. Patients in maternity, those
under 16 and in the care of mental health are currently excluded. How does the protocol apply to high impact specialties? The protocol identifies intensive care (including the High
Dependency Unit), orthopaedics, renal medicine and vascular/ cardiothoracic surgery as high impact specialties. Patients admitted to or transferred to a high impact specialty should be screened using the CRA and should all (regardless of CRA responses) have nasal and perineal swabs obtained. The rationale for this is to identify those most at risk of colonisation of MRSA at the earliest stage by using the CRA. If a patient answers yes to any of the CRA questions then they should be managed as positive. Will this commence right away? No. A few areas have been asked to test the CRA protocol. The MRSA Team will inform you when your area is to be included. Otherwise, nasal and perineal screening continues as per normal practice.
Lynn Hogg, charge nurse, pre-assessment unit, said: “When patients who have been screened learn they have MRSA some are horrified and think it’s their fault. “We have to reassure them that MRSA is a common germ. By identifying MRSA before they come in we can treat it, perhaps with an ointment for their nose, for example. “They can then be infection free when they come in for their operation and minimise the risk of associated complications occurring due to MRSA getting into the wound.” Isobel Anderson, staff nurse with the preassessment unit, said: “It is so important to catch MRSA before patients come in for surgery. “By treating someone who has MRSA before they come in to the hospital it means they may recover more quickly and that we can reduce the risk of MRSA spreading to other patients.”
10 thePulse FEATURE
FEATURE
JULY/AUGUST 2011
thePulse 11
SUPPORT FOR HEALTHY MINDS THE past two months have seen NHS Lanarkshire involved in a hive of activity around mental health. Events around Dementia Awareness week, Action on Depression, the relaunch of the elament website as well as proposals to modernise mental health services and a new consultant Alzheimer’s nurse have all taken place over the recent period. These pages contain a summary of these events and initiatives and the goals that they hope to achieve.
NHS L anarkshire has been engaging on proposals to modernise mental health services. A two-month engagement period began on 16 May 2011 with NHS Lanarkshire listening to the views of patients, carers, staff and other stakeholders. Colin Sloey, director of North Lanarkshire Community Health Partnership and NHS Lanarkshire executive lead for mental health, said: “ We’re committed to enhancing the patient experience for people with mental health issues and ensuring the quality of service continues to improve.” A range of progress has been made in the past decade to deliver better care to patients by moder nising mental health services in Lanarkshire. Dr Alastair Cook, associate medical director of Mental Health and Learning Disability, said: “As a result of the improvement in community services and facilities,
MARKING OUR REAL SUCCESSES A HOST of events were held across Lanarkshire to celebrate Dementia Awareness Week. The 2011 event fell between 6-12 June and NHS Lanarkshire’s staff organised both community and hospital events in every locality to raise overall awareness of dementia as well as signpost people to the support services available to those living with dementia and their carers. As well as the three acute hospital sites, many health centres, local libraries, large supermarkets, community venues, churches and sports grounds witnessed some kind of awareness raising event. Maureen Taggart, mental health
we have seen a reduction in the need and demand for in-patient treatment, which has led to a reduction in bed occupancy levels. “The latest proposals aim to continue this process of modernising services and would include a small reduction in bed numbers.” NHS Lanarkshire proposes extending the mental health outof-hours service and providing intensive home treatment by transferring adult acute mental health beds in North Lanarkshire to one refurbished site at either Wishaw General or Monklands hospitals. The proposals include options for Intensive Psychiatric Care Unit (IPCU) provision. It is also proposed that acute care for older people is enhanced by moving the acute admissions wards at Airbles Road, Coathill and Udston onto acute hospital sites, should accommodation become available.
We’re committed to enhancing the patient experience for people with mental health issues and ensuring quality of service continues to improve This may require a further review of bed requirements. A stakeholder option appraisal event took place on 28 June to inform the decision on the best way forward. NHS Lanarkshire Board will consider the outcome of the engagement exercise and option appraisal when it meets in August. More information is available at www.nhslanarkshire.org.uk/ Involved/consultation/Pages/Mental_ Health_Modernisation.aspx
RAISING AWARENESS: Staff member Josephine McPhail with two members of the public at the entrance to Wishaw General Hospital
lead for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “It was an incredible effort put in by everyone and we must have come across literally hundreds of people over the course of the week. “The national dementia strategy launched in Coatbridge last year highlighted the need to remove the taboo of dementia and increase access to information as key priorities. Joan James, divisional nurse director, acute, led the week in the
acute sites. She said: “We are working to improve the experiences of patients and carers in the acute setting as we want to make sure patients and their carers are supported during their hospital stay. “The work of the acute group included having stands supported by nursing staff and hospital carers co-ordinators spending time giving advice and support to families visiting relatives.”
From left – North Lanarkshire Mental Health Information Service’s Lynsey Sampson, Lynne Cruickshank with Motherwell manager Stuart McCall, NHS Lanarkshire’s Avril Thomson, Kevin O’Neill and Dennis McLafferty
CONSULTANT SET TO BE APPOINTED
Living with Dementia THE new dementia DVD ‘Living well with Dementia’ was launched in Rutherglen Town Hall on 24 June. Carers and those living with dementia joined representatives (pictured) from NHS Lanarkshire, NHS Health Scotland, Alzheimer Scotland, the Scottish Dementia Working Group and the Lanarkshire Dementia Strategy Implementation Group. The DVD is for people who have just been given a diagnosis of dementia and it is based on the experiences of people with dementia, and carers. It uses their voices to: q Help people in the early stages of
Motherwell FC supports mental health website
diagnosis understand more about their illness q Share experience around how to ‘live well’ after a diagnosis, as well as offering practical advice on coping with its effects q Suggest where people with dementia and their carers can go for further support. The newly released DVD uses the real experiences of those with dementia to help others learn how best to cope. For more information on the DVD, visit the element website at www.elament.org.uk
A NEW Alzheimer Scotland dementia nurse consultant is being established in Lanarkshire. Work is currently under way to recruit to the post which is being made possible through a three-year funding agreement for NHS Lanarkshire. NHS Lanarkshire is the fifth board to receive funding for such a post as part of a £1.5 million Alzheimer Scotland appeal being spearheaded by the Duchess of Hamilton. The appeal aims to fund a nurse consultant in every board in Scotland. Henry Simmons, chief executive of Alzheimer Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with NHS Lanarkshire to improve standards of hospital care for people with dementia in this health board. We are only able to fund these posts
The appeal is being spearheaded by the Duchess of Hamilton, second from right because of the immense support and generosity we receive from the people and businesses across Scotland who donate to us and have responded to our appeal. I am sure they will be extremely happy to see that we have taken another huge step forward.” Colin Sloey, director of North Lanarkshire Community Health
Partnership, said: “NHS Lanarkshire is delighted to be the recipient of this funding and is look forward to collaborating with Alzheimer Scotland on this important development. This significant investment will support our commitment to improve services for people with dementia and the experience of their carers.”
MOTHERWELL FC helped relaunch Lanarkshire’s mental health and wellbeing information website (www.elament.org.uk). The site has been developed to improve access to mental health and wellbeing information in Lanarkshire. Motherwell manager Stuart McCall said: “Part of my role as manager is to take steps to manage the demands placed upon the players and get the balance right between football and relaxation. “It’s also been about promoting wellbeing and a positive mental attitude, building their confidence and self-belief. “As a result, we’ve celebrated when things have gone well, but we’ve also learned to build on the things that don’t go well.” He continued: “We all have busy lives these days – with work, family commitments and the added pressure of the current financial pressures – and having people around that support and understand is really important. “That’s why sites such as
www.elament.org.uk are very important as they help us recognise the signs of everyday stress and feel comfortable talking about it.” Chair of the Lanarkshire Mental Health Improvement Partnership Group Kevin O’Neill said: “We know from national surveys that about 75,000 people in Lanarkshire will have experienced stress or depression in the last two weeks. “We also know that many people want to look after their own mental health and wellbeing, but it can be difficult to know where to start. “The elament website is the firststop shop for mental health information in Lanarkshire, from understanding mental health problems, finding self-help information and seeing what services and supports are available.” If you or someone you know would like to talk to someone, contact your GP. Local libraries also have healthy reading sections with lots of supportive books, DVDs and CDs and provide information on what is available within your community.
10 thePulse FEATURE
FEATURE
JULY/AUGUST 2011
thePulse 11
SUPPORT FOR HEALTHY MINDS THE past two months have seen NHS Lanarkshire involved in a hive of activity around mental health. Events around Dementia Awareness week, Action on Depression, the relaunch of the elament website as well as proposals to modernise mental health services and a new consultant Alzheimer’s nurse have all taken place over the recent period. These pages contain a summary of these events and initiatives and the goals that they hope to achieve.
NHS L anarkshire has been engaging on proposals to modernise mental health services. A two-month engagement period began on 16 May 2011 with NHS Lanarkshire listening to the views of patients, carers, staff and other stakeholders. Colin Sloey, director of North Lanarkshire Community Health Partnership and NHS Lanarkshire executive lead for mental health, said: “ We’re committed to enhancing the patient experience for people with mental health issues and ensuring the quality of service continues to improve.” A range of progress has been made in the past decade to deliver better care to patients by moder nising mental health services in Lanarkshire. Dr Alastair Cook, associate medical director of Mental Health and Learning Disability, said: “As a result of the improvement in community services and facilities,
MARKING OUR REAL SUCCESSES A HOST of events were held across Lanarkshire to celebrate Dementia Awareness Week. The 2011 event fell between 6-12 June and NHS Lanarkshire’s staff organised both community and hospital events in every locality to raise overall awareness of dementia as well as signpost people to the support services available to those living with dementia and their carers. As well as the three acute hospital sites, many health centres, local libraries, large supermarkets, community venues, churches and sports grounds witnessed some kind of awareness raising event. Maureen Taggart, mental health
we have seen a reduction in the need and demand for in-patient treatment, which has led to a reduction in bed occupancy levels. “The latest proposals aim to continue this process of modernising services and would include a small reduction in bed numbers.” NHS Lanarkshire proposes extending the mental health outof-hours service and providing intensive home treatment by transferring adult acute mental health beds in North Lanarkshire to one refurbished site at either Wishaw General or Monklands hospitals. The proposals include options for Intensive Psychiatric Care Unit (IPCU) provision. It is also proposed that acute care for older people is enhanced by moving the acute admissions wards at Airbles Road, Coathill and Udston onto acute hospital sites, should accommodation become available.
We’re committed to enhancing the patient experience for people with mental health issues and ensuring quality of service continues to improve This may require a further review of bed requirements. A stakeholder option appraisal event took place on 28 June to inform the decision on the best way forward. NHS Lanarkshire Board will consider the outcome of the engagement exercise and option appraisal when it meets in August. More information is available at www.nhslanarkshire.org.uk/ Involved/consultation/Pages/Mental_ Health_Modernisation.aspx
RAISING AWARENESS: Staff member Josephine McPhail with two members of the public at the entrance to Wishaw General Hospital
lead for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “It was an incredible effort put in by everyone and we must have come across literally hundreds of people over the course of the week. “The national dementia strategy launched in Coatbridge last year highlighted the need to remove the taboo of dementia and increase access to information as key priorities. Joan James, divisional nurse director, acute, led the week in the
acute sites. She said: “We are working to improve the experiences of patients and carers in the acute setting as we want to make sure patients and their carers are supported during their hospital stay. “The work of the acute group included having stands supported by nursing staff and hospital carers co-ordinators spending time giving advice and support to families visiting relatives.”
From left – North Lanarkshire Mental Health Information Service’s Lynsey Sampson, Lynne Cruickshank with Motherwell manager Stuart McCall, NHS Lanarkshire’s Avril Thomson, Kevin O’Neill and Dennis McLafferty
CONSULTANT SET TO BE APPOINTED
Living with Dementia THE new dementia DVD ‘Living well with Dementia’ was launched in Rutherglen Town Hall on 24 June. Carers and those living with dementia joined representatives (pictured) from NHS Lanarkshire, NHS Health Scotland, Alzheimer Scotland, the Scottish Dementia Working Group and the Lanarkshire Dementia Strategy Implementation Group. The DVD is for people who have just been given a diagnosis of dementia and it is based on the experiences of people with dementia, and carers. It uses their voices to: q Help people in the early stages of
Motherwell FC supports mental health website
diagnosis understand more about their illness q Share experience around how to ‘live well’ after a diagnosis, as well as offering practical advice on coping with its effects q Suggest where people with dementia and their carers can go for further support. The newly released DVD uses the real experiences of those with dementia to help others learn how best to cope. For more information on the DVD, visit the element website at www.elament.org.uk
A NEW Alzheimer Scotland dementia nurse consultant is being established in Lanarkshire. Work is currently under way to recruit to the post which is being made possible through a three-year funding agreement for NHS Lanarkshire. NHS Lanarkshire is the fifth board to receive funding for such a post as part of a £1.5 million Alzheimer Scotland appeal being spearheaded by the Duchess of Hamilton. The appeal aims to fund a nurse consultant in every board in Scotland. Henry Simmons, chief executive of Alzheimer Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with NHS Lanarkshire to improve standards of hospital care for people with dementia in this health board. We are only able to fund these posts
The appeal is being spearheaded by the Duchess of Hamilton, second from right because of the immense support and generosity we receive from the people and businesses across Scotland who donate to us and have responded to our appeal. I am sure they will be extremely happy to see that we have taken another huge step forward.” Colin Sloey, director of North Lanarkshire Community Health
Partnership, said: “NHS Lanarkshire is delighted to be the recipient of this funding and is look forward to collaborating with Alzheimer Scotland on this important development. This significant investment will support our commitment to improve services for people with dementia and the experience of their carers.”
MOTHERWELL FC helped relaunch Lanarkshire’s mental health and wellbeing information website (www.elament.org.uk). The site has been developed to improve access to mental health and wellbeing information in Lanarkshire. Motherwell manager Stuart McCall said: “Part of my role as manager is to take steps to manage the demands placed upon the players and get the balance right between football and relaxation. “It’s also been about promoting wellbeing and a positive mental attitude, building their confidence and self-belief. “As a result, we’ve celebrated when things have gone well, but we’ve also learned to build on the things that don’t go well.” He continued: “We all have busy lives these days – with work, family commitments and the added pressure of the current financial pressures – and having people around that support and understand is really important. “That’s why sites such as
www.elament.org.uk are very important as they help us recognise the signs of everyday stress and feel comfortable talking about it.” Chair of the Lanarkshire Mental Health Improvement Partnership Group Kevin O’Neill said: “We know from national surveys that about 75,000 people in Lanarkshire will have experienced stress or depression in the last two weeks. “We also know that many people want to look after their own mental health and wellbeing, but it can be difficult to know where to start. “The elament website is the firststop shop for mental health information in Lanarkshire, from understanding mental health problems, finding self-help information and seeing what services and supports are available.” If you or someone you know would like to talk to someone, contact your GP. Local libraries also have healthy reading sections with lots of supportive books, DVDs and CDs and provide information on what is available within your community.
12 thePulse LOCAL/DISTRICT/PARTNERSHIP
JULY/AUGUST 2011
Many thanks Generous donations will be of great benefit to cancer patients cared for in the commmunity LANARKSHIRE’S community Macmillan nursing team have paid tribute to the generosity of cancer patients and their families who have helped improve the lives of others. Thanks to big-hearted donations, the team have been able to purchase equipment worth more than £7000 – including portable nebulisers and pressure-relieving mattresses. This kit ensures patients who have life-limiting illnesses can be made more comfortable when in their own homes. Jan Smith, Macmillan nurse co-ordinator for Lanarkshire, said: “We’re very grateful for all the donations we receive which can be used to benefit patients with cancer who are being cared for in the community. “The portable nebulisers and pressure-relieving mattresses can make a big difference to people. “On behalf of the Lanarkshire Macmillan nursing team I’d like to
EQUIPMENT BOOST: From left, community Macmillan nurse (East Kilbride) Wendy Vincent, Macmillan development nurse Gillian Murphy, community Macmillan nurse (Clydesdale) Sandra Andrews and Macmillan nurse co-ordinator for Lanarkshire Jan Smith
It’s never too late to learn BABIES in Lanarkshire will benefit from grandparents with expert babysitting skills thanks to an innovative class at Wishaw General. A group of expectant grandparents attended a support session in May, run by midwife Annette Cartwright, to learn how caring for babies has changed over the years. The class was voted a great success by the students. Jim Cairney, 63, from Larkhall, is looking forward to the arrival of his first grandchild in July. He said: “The class is a smashing idea and you’re never too late to learn. It’s a while since I had to look after a young baby and refresher courses are always useful – especially when it’s something as important as looking after a baby.” Midwife Annette was delighted with the turnout for the class. She said: “We received some very positive feedback from the people attending the class and they all seemed to enjoy it.
thank everyone who has made these donations and to let them know they’ve made a difference to the lives of people with cancer.” Jan continued: “Patients who have to spend a lot of time in bed are prone to pressure sores, but these mattresses can help prevent these sores and so avoid further pain and discomfort. “The portable nebulisers make a huge difference to patients with breathing difficulties as they can use these themselves to administer their medicines at home.” The Macmillan nursing team, which is based at Udston Hospital, covers the whole of Lanarkshire. Thanks to the kind donations made by cancer patients and their families the team has been able to purchase 15 portable nebulisers, 30 mattresses, three portable suction machines and one specialist nebuliser, worth £3000, for patients with head and neck cancer. The team would also appreciate suggestions from other NHS Lanarkshire teams, who work in endof-life care, for ways in which this money can be used for the benefit of these patients. For more information, contact Jan on 01698 723282 or email
[email protected]
GIVING MORE TIME TO SAY GOODBYE New grandparents with midwife Annette Cartwright, second from left in the back row “During the class we look at various topics, such as how maternity services have changed over the years, the use of baby products, breastfeeding, baby care and how grandparents can help. “Grandparents can be a huge help and support to new parents and these classes help them understand the information that will be given to their families and the way in which maternity and baby care is delivered now.” Further grandparent sessions will be held later in the year and information will be made available nearer the time. To find out more about the support classes, please contact Annette on 01698 366473.
A COUPLE who suffered the dreadful pain of their first child being stillborn hope their gift to Wishaw General’s maternity unit can help others in a similar situation. Gavin and Kirstie Moir presented the unit with a cold cot – which helps preserve stillborn babies to provide families more time to spend with their lost children. In February 2010, Kirstie gave birth to a stillborn baby boy, Fraser Alexander Moir. Thankfully the Bellshill couple recently celebrated the birth of their baby son Euan but they wanted to do something to help those who have to suffer a stillborn birth. Gavin said: “The cot is something we hope is never used, but sadly we know that is unlikely. “The cot will allow parents of stillborn babies to have more time to say goodbye.” Kirstie said: “Gavin and I felt our world had fallen apart when we realised our wee boy would never go
GIFT GIVERS: Gavin, Kirstie and son Euan with some of the Wishaw General team
home with us… we didn’t get much time to hold our wee angel. “We didn’t want other parents in similar circumstances to have this limited time with their babies and so decided to raise funds, with the support of the national Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity, SANDS, in order to purchase a cold cot for
Wishaw’s maternity unit in Fraser’s memory.” Gavin and Kirstie raised more than £3000 for the cold cot through a charity night they held in Motherwell. Gavin said: “I’d like to thank all our friends, families and local businesses who supported us and donated prizes to allow us to raise this money.”
LOCAL/DISTRICT/PARTNERSHIP
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thePulse 13
In brief…
lucky NHS e THIRTY Lanarkshire colleagues scooped a total of £1,339,367 in the National Lottery. The nurses, clinical support workers, domestic kitchen and administration staff (pictured), making up the syndicate from Lady Home Hospital, each pocketed £44,645. When staff nurse and syndicate leader Julie McLuckie checked the group’s numbers she found out they had won twice – the jackpot and another £48. Syndicate leader Julie said: “The atmosphere in the hospital was electric and I am over the moon as it couldn’t happen to a better bunch of girls. “The boss has told us she isn’t accepting any resignations, but we all love our jobs – this is a very special place.” “Winning the jackpot has been a wonderful, uplifting experience in these financially hard times.”
CARE PACKAGES: from left, Lisa and Leigh are looking for items to send to the British forces in Afghanistan
BROTHERS IN ARMS With siblings serving in Afghanistan, Lisa and Leigh are organising support packages to show our troops thanks TWO Hairmyres Hospital staff are asking for your help to support the British forces in Afghanistan. Radiographers Lisa Melrose and Leigh Samson both have brothers in the armed forces. To show their support to their siblings, and all the brave British men and women troops, the duo have arranged parcel collections in Hairmyres to provide those far away with some home comforts. Lisa, from Erskine, said: “Both our brothers are serving in Afghanistan at the moment and we wished to show our support
not only to them but to serving soldiers in general. “There is a charity called Support our Soldiers that sends out care packages to soldiers that include items that are required but not distributed freely such as toiletries, sweets, magazines and games. “We feel that if they are putting their lives on the line to keep this country safe then the least we could do is supply them with some little luxuries to cheer them up.” Leigh, from East Kilbride, added: “There are a lot of people who don’t have relatives in the forces, but are very happy
The troops appreciate that they are getting support from back home to send out a parcel to show their support. “The troops really appreciate that they are getting support from back home. “You don’t have to donate a full parcel, anything you can donate is very welcome. “We’re also asking people to write good luck or thank you
messages to the troops in general as we know they really appreciate them and they’re a great boost to their morale.” Some of the items suitable for the parcels include: q toiletries q sweets q snacks q puzzles. If you wish to donate any items please hand them in to the radiology department at Hairmyres. To find out more about the Support our Soldiers charity go to www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk
to affordable and e ACCESS high-quality food and vegetables within Strutherhill and Larkhall is the aim of the newly launched Larkhall Community Food Co-op. The co-op, which opened in May, will operate from Craigbank community wing in Strutherhill on Wednesdays between noon and 2.30pm and will be staffed by volunteers. NHS Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire Council would like to thank the volunteers for setting up the co-op and wish them success in their venture. If you would like to help out at your local community food co-op, please contact Caron Lyon on 01698 452364.
big-hearted Uddingston e Acouple, Lorraine and Denis McGill, have raised £3,565 for the new haematology unit at Monklands Hospital. Margaret Smith, senior charge nurse in the haematology unit, said: “The donation was a wonderful surprise and is greatly appreciated. Lorraine and Denis’ kindness will help us make sure that patients are as comfortable as possible during their stay.”
14 thePulse LOCAL/DISTRICT/PARTNERSHIP
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Virtual reality
WORK OF ART: the students’ artwork is unveiled
PICTURE PERFECT Student artwork goes on display at Hairmyres Hospital
HAIRMYRES Hospital has benefited from the artistic talents of a local secondary school. Third year students at St Andrew’s and St Bride’s High School were tasked to produce artwork for the hospital. David Hume, general manager, who was involved in the art project, said: I am delighted with the final product. The artwork really brightens up the dining area.
“Hairmyres is a community hospital for East Kilbride. Bringing together the talents and skills that exist in the local area was a key part of the project. “This is the single busiest thoroughfare in the hospital which gives the art the best opportunity to be seen by the community – patients, staff and visitors alike. “I would like to thank all the pupils for their hard work and commitment in the production of
An employer partnership has been created between retail graphics supplier Novograf Ltd, Hairmyres Hospital and St Andrew’s and St Bride’s High School. Principal teacher of art and design Norah Jardine said: “We are very grateful to everyone at Hairmyres for giving the pupils this fantastic opportunity. The support from Novograf has been tremendous.”
WISDOM ON YOUR TEETH
Managing pain relief NHS Lanarkshire’s Chronic Pain Service now offers a Pain Management Programme that aims to restore to as normal as possible the lives of those affected by persistent pain. Dr Sabu James, consultant anaesthetist, explained: “The pain management programme offers psychological and physical support.” The programme is run by the service’s clinical psychologist, Dr Christopher Harding, and physiotherapist Cassandra MacGregor, with input from other members of the chronic pain team. Dr Christopher Harding said: “The programme uses a mix of psychological techniques from
this wonderful piece of art.” A total of 66 pupils were involved in the project, which will form their expressive arts unit within their Standard Grade Art and Design curriculum. Student Rachel Logan said: “I am proud that our efforts will be on display to the public for years to come.” The art project is part of South Lanarkshire Council’s ‘Determined to Succeed’ strategy for education.
STRETCH: Physiotherapist Cassandra MacGregor with chronic pain class Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and different physiotherapy exercises to treat people with chronic pain. The Pain Management Programme runs for 10 consecutive weeks, with each session lasting half a day. Patients can be referred either by their GP or their hospital consultant. Rosalind Donnelly, from Wishaw, who has attended the 10-week course, said: “The class has been amazing. I feel I can cope better when pain does flare up as I know how to manage it.”
ENSURING Lanarkshire smiles brightly was the aim for NHS Lanarkshire’s oral health team during Smile Month 15 May to 15 June. At events held throughout Lanarkshire, the team promoted the message that a clean mouth can result in more than just a nice smile. Oral health specialists were also on hand to answer questions and give advice on hygiene. Elaine Sharp, NHS Lanarkshire senior oral health educator, said: “Research shows that problems like heart disease, strokes, diabetes and even premature births can be related to an unhealthy mouth with gum disease. “At events held throughout Lanarkshire during Smile Month we’ve been reminding people that they should follow three simple steps
From left, Marie Lawley, community colleague at Hamilton’s Asda, Lorna Brown and nine-month-old son Ross, and oral health educators, Evelyn Stephen and Lorna Murray
FORTY final year Glasgow University medical students were put through their paces within NHS Lanarkshire’s hospitals during the six-week programme “Preparation for Practice”. As part of this course, the students underwent an hour-long “An Evening On Call” session. This involved the students being on-call in a virtual medical floor – consisting of four wards, staffed by senior nurses and housing several patient manikins with virtual casenotes, blood results and prescription kardexes. Each student carried a pager and was contacted frequently by the nursing staff with new problems and tasks to be carried out. Catie Paton, acting clinical skills development specialist, based at the Medical Education Training Centre at Kirklands, said: “The students were very positive about the programme. “It gives them the chance to take responsibility for their patients and their clinical decisions for the very first time rather than just being in the shadow of a fellow FY1. “Many of them find the session stressful, but very worthwhile and often state that they would like to do it all over again.” This year’s Preparation for Practice programme included some new features, such as the use of video technology which meant the students could be filmed and observed from a different room, removing the need for their assessor to physically follow them around. Volunteer patients were also introduced this year which was a huge help to the students. The highlight of the programme this year was a pilot introduction of final year University of the West of Scotland nursing students over two of the seven days, with 13 students completing the pilot. The nursing students stepped into the shoes of newly qualified staff nurses and assumed a patient caseload in each ward. Catie said: “Evaluations from both medical and nursing students on these interprofessional days highlighted a positive response to this training, especially in regards to gaining clarity and mutual respect for each others’ roles, and the need for effective assessment and communication.”
when looking to keep their mouths and teeth in good condition. “These are: brush your teeth twice a day, try not to take too many sugary snacks and meals and visit the dentist regularly.” To find out more on good oral health, visit www.nhslanarkshire. org.uk/healthyliving/oral/pages
Students spent “An Evening On Call”
TOP HEALTH ISSUES
JULY/AUGUST 2011
BOOST FOR VITA-MUMS
thePulse 15
Media Watch
Can’t thank hospi enough for savingtal son Hub will put healthy food on the menu
Evening Times
A GOOD START: Carrin (left) receives her vitamins from midwife Anna McGinley
e
Healthy Start benefits babies and mothers ONE of Coatbridge’s newest mums has praised an initiative aimed at giving babies the best start in life. Carrin Callaghan recently had her first child, and during the course of her pregnancy she took advantage of the Healthy Start scheme, which provides free vitamins to pregnant women and children under four years as well as giving them vouchers to allow them to purchase milk, fresh and frozen plain fruit and vegetables. Carrin, 19, said: “It was my midwife who told me about it when I had my first appointment and I sent away my Healthy Start application. “Collecting the vitamins was also easy as you just take your voucher along to your local health centre.” Carrin continued: “We all want to
do the best for our babies but I also feel the benefits myself and it’s my intention to continue to buy more fruit and vegetables with the vouchers and give vitamins to my new baby.” Children from six months up to their fourth birthday who receive Healthy Start vouchers can also get Healthy Start vitamins. These vitamins contain the recommended A, C and D that all children under five should take. Carrin’s midwife Anna McGinley, based at Coatbridge Health Centre, explained: “Vitamins are essential nutrients that your body needs in small amounts so that it can work properly. “While you can get lots of
vitamins from a healthy balanced diet, you often need more at certain times in your life, like when you are pregnant, a new mum or a small child. “That’s why it’s great to see women such as Car rin take advantage of the programme.” Lizzy Hammond, a maternal and infant nutritionist, said: “Healthy Start is one part of NHS Lanarkshire’s programme of activity. “We also want to encourage women to breastfeed as there are many associated benefits for both mums and babies from that.” For more information on Healthy Start, contact lizzy.hammond@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
Local childhood obesity target toppled NHS Lanarkshire has led the way in the recently released Child Health Weight Intervention figures. The national figures are published by the Scottish Government and show the number of interventions made by health boards to target and develop a range of services to support families whose children are struggling with their weight and
want to take action to tackle it. They show that NHS Lanarkshire completed 1,874 between April 2008 and March 2011 which smashed its target of 1,012. NHS Lanarkshire was by far the highest of any health board and its efforts helped achieve a national total of 8,406 healthy weight interventions, which beat the target for the period of 6,317.
Jonathan Cavana, NHS Lanarkshire’s Child Health weight programme manager, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have surpassed our target.” For more details, go to www. scotland.gov. uk/topics/statistics/ browse/health/childhealthyweight1011
Hamilton couple Garry Whitton and Gemma Boland raised £3000 for Wishaw General’s neonatal and transitional care departments as a thank you for the care their son Connor received at the hospital. community food hub to e Atackle poor diet and promote healthy eating was launched in Airdrie by NHS Lanarkshire. This news was also highlighted in the Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser. launch of NHS e The Lanarkshire’s new neonatal clinic at Douglas Street Community Health Clinic to help improve control and management of TB was covered in the local press including the Lanark & Carluke Gazette, Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser, Wishaw Press, Hamilton Advertiser, Bellshill Speaker/Motherwell Times and Evening Times. letter from Airdrie and e ACoatbridge Advertiser reader Vivien Waddell praised the professionalism of Monklands Hospital staff after being a patient.
Hamilton Advertiser
Tackling tot TB
Lanark & Carluke Gazette
launch of “Smoke in Your e The Eyes” – an innovative new teaching tool, developed by NHS Lanarkshire in partnership with North and South Lanarkshire councils, to help reduce the number of young smokers – was highlighted by local newspapers including the Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser, Wishaw Press, Hamilton Advertiser, East Kilbride News and Evening Times. including the e Newspapers Hamilton Advertiser, Airdrie
and Coatbridge Advertiser, Wishaw Press, and Bellshill Speaker/Motherwell Times reported that NHS Lanarkshire’s grandparent sessions at Wishaw General had been a big hit with those attending. Lanarkshire’s campaign to e NHS raise awareness of the issue of wasted medicine, which costs more than £2m a year, was highlighted in the local press including the Evening Times, Hamilton Advertiser and Wishaw Press.
SHARE YOUR STORIES
q Has a patient or visitor gone out of their way to praise you? q Is there a new service in your department you are proud of? Contact the communications department on 01698 858108 and help us share the good news stories told about NHS Lanarkshire every day.
16 thePulse RETIREMENTS
In brief…
Craig retired from his e DAVID post as project manager with the property and support services department in May, after 37 years in the NHS. He began his career with NHS Lanarkshire in 1974, where he was appointed as assistant engineer covering Monklands and Hairmyres hospitals. In 1976, David moved to a promoted post as senior engineer at Hartwood Hospital. After working with NHS Lanarkshire for eight years, David continued his career in estates and left NHS Lanarkshire for a period to work in both Argyle and Clyde and Tayside health boards. He returned to NHS Lanarkshire in 1989 where he remained until May 2011. Robert Spencer, head of support services, said: “David is a very knowledgeable and capable individual who comes from the old school of ‘hospital engineers’ and he will be sorely missed and hard to replace.” David, who is married to Joyce, lives in Coatbridge with their two children Stephanie and Alexander. His hobbies include leisure painting using watercolours and hill-walking, as well as being an active Sunday School teacher. He is a member of Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway and the Scottish Railway Preservation Society. David is also actively involved in two local autism charities.
nurse Helen e COMMUNITY Donnelly retired from her position at Hunter Health Centre after 46 years’ service. Having started her nursing career in January 1965, she qualified as a nurse from Glasgow Royal Infirmary in 1968, from where she went on to work in both Glasgow Royal and Hairmyres Hospital. Helen then moved to the Blantyre treatment room and Marie Curie before joining the community nursing team in 1991. Colleague Eileen Manchip said: “Helen has worked through many changes and challenges during her time at Hunter Health Centre. “Her calm, professional manner and constant source of local knowledge will be greatly missed. “We wish her well on her next adventure.”
JULY/AUGUST 2011
MIKE WILL BE MISSED Hairmyres salutes Mike Rhind, who has ‘dedicated all his working life’ to the hospital and its Biochemistry Department
HAIRMYRES Hospital’s biochemistry department has bid a sad farewell to Mike Rhind who has retired after 39 years’ service. Having started work as a trainee biochemist in 1973 and, following completion of specialist training in 1983, he was appointed biomedical scientist in technical charge. During his 30 years he oversaw many laboratory developments. His notable achievements include involvement in the design of the laboratories at Hairmyres, especially the central reception area and the link to the new hospital in 2001. Together with colleagues, Mike was also responsible for transforming the department into a modern, efficient and accredited laboratory. Dr Janet Tillman, head of the Biochemistry department, said: “Throughout these changes Mike
FINE FAREWELL: Mike is pictured with his laboratory colleagues, from left, Jacqueline Clark, Julie Burns and Irene Spence
has been integral to the process – with his vision, leadership and operational expertise. “He has dedicated all of his working life to Hairmyres Hospital and in particular to the clinical biochemistry department and I
would like to thank him for his commitment, dedication and support to all staff and patients. “He will be truly missed by his colleagues and I am sure all of us wish him good health and a long and happy retirement.”
Mike, from East Kilbride, will now be looking to spending more time with his fiancée Beverly and enjoying his hobbies of gardening and voluntary work with charities, including Macmillan and Aid to Romania.
Paying tribute MARGARET McManus recently retired from Wishaw General after working with the social work department for 25 years. The social work assistant began her career at Law Hospital before transferring to Wishaw General when it opened and had brief spell at Hairmyres Hospital. During this time Margaret worked for North and South Lanarkshire Councils which took her into many and varied areas of work – from children and families to cancer care. She said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my job and have taken great satisfaction from it. “Throughout all my years of working in hospitals and in social work I’ve always believed that to achieve the best outcomes, you
need all the different disciplines to work together as a team and that has always been the case at Wishaw General. “I would like to thank all the medical staff at the hospital for their support and wish them well in the future.” Margaret lives in Hamilton with her husband John and has one daughter, Dr Julie Sinclair, who works as a consultant in Glasgow’s Southern General Hospital. Margaret joined the Bett Clarke School of Dance in Glasgow when she was three years of age and progressed to ballet. She became a qualified dance teacher dancing with the Callum Kennedy dancers and, to this day, still invigilates at dance exams.
DEDICATED SERVICE: Margaret, front left, with colleagues at Wishaw General
In her spare time, Margaret enjoys keep fit and, through her caring role, helped take a class for disabled people in wheelchairs. John Hunter, locality manager,
said: “On behalf of NHS Lanarkshire, North Lanarkshire Council and South Lanarkshire Council, I would like to pay tribute to Margaret for her long and dedicated service.”
COMPETITIONS
JULY/AUGUST 2011
Viva la dolce vita A real taste of Italy... in East Kilbride ZUCCA Ristorante Pizzeria in East Kilbride brings truly authentic Italian cooking to Lanarkshire. And one lucky Pulse reader will get the chance to enjoy a meal for two for free in our scrumptious competition. The stunning ristorante, situated at 33 Main Street, The Village, East Kilbride, opened its doors on 26 November 2009. A love of all things Italian inspired owner Yacine Titi to bring a stone-based, 1,600kg pizza oven to The Village to make the freshest, most authentic pizza this side of Sicily. It’s so big the restaurant had to be built around it. Add some freshly cooked pasta, seafood specials and an Italyinspired wine, beer and cocktail list and you have a Mediterranean recipe for a great night out in East Kilbride. Zucca cherishes its reputation and its award-winning bistro pizzeria, in East Kilbride’s Centre West Shopping Mall, has been producing the best food, service and value in the town centre
TASTY TREAT: A free dinner could be yours at Zucca
since it opened in 2003. This reputation has been carried on to the ristorante and they continue to use fresh, local and authentic Italian produce to make classic and contemporary dishes in their stunning pizzeria. NHS Lanarkshire staff can also receive a 10 per cent discount off their meal. Just show your staff ID. To find out more about Zucca Ristorante Pizzeria visit their
It’s a real beauty PREMIER Beauty in Wishaw Main Street is committed to making you look and feel fantastic as soon as you enter their salon. With a vast amount of treatments available under one roof, you can be assured of a first-class pampering and spoiling session at the hands of Premier Beauty’s experienced team of therapists and stylists. Courtesy of a cracking competition, you could be enjoying a free head-totoe pampering session, including cut and blow dry, aromatic back, neck and shoulder massage and hydro-facial, worth £100. For a chance to win the £100 prize, just answer this simple question, right. Premier Beauty, at 352 Main Street Wishaw, with free parking, has a fully equipped hair salon, nail bar, Jacuzzi/ spa room and two treatment rooms. Treatments available include botox, filler, semi-permanent makeup and you can even hire the whole salon for a VIP service. Premier Beauty offers NHS Lanarkshire staff 30 per cent off hairdressing and 10 per cent off beauty treatments on your first visit – and thereafter 10 per cent off all
website at www.zuccavillage.co.uk or to make a reservation call 01355 225007 or email
[email protected] For a chance to win a meal for two, excluding drinks, just answer
When did Zucca Ristorante Pizzeria open?
the simple question below. Send your answers, no later than Friday 12 August, to Martin Stirling, Communications Department, Kirklands Hospital, Fallside Road, Bothwell G71 8BB, or email
[email protected]. nhs.uk with “Zucca Competition” in the subject field. Remember to include your job title, place of work and a contact telephone number.
Pulse Sudoku Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, and every 3x3 square. Get the solution on FirstPort.
thePulse 17
Well done to the winners Russell will be e DENISE enjoying some glorious golf or pampering herself at the spa in the stunning surroundings of Loch Lomond after winning the De Vere Group competition in the last edition of The Pulse. The audio typist for the orthopaedic department at Monklands correctly answered that The Carrick course at Loch Lomond was designed by acclaimed designer Doug Carrick. Denise will now receive a golf membership worth £295. This innovative membership provides the chance to play 16 courses across the UK – including The Carrick. For £295 you receive 100 points on your membership card, which you can use against rounds where and when you want. You can play in members’ competitions, get a handicap, sign in guests and receive discounts in the members’ bar, the spa and the golf shop. Points can also be used for the spa, pull trolleys and driving range. NHS Lanarkshire staff who take advantage of the membership can further benefit from an exclusive offer, receiving a free nine-hole playing lesson with European Tour coach Spencer Edwards. The De Vere Group is also offering NHS Lanarkshire staff exclusive offers, including: golf with a group of friends at the preferential rate of £39 per person (summer green fees are usually £125); spa escape for only £99 (£20 supplement Friday to Sunday) including two-hour spa experience, champagne lunch, refresher facial and relaxing massage, and exclusive spa gift; Cameron Club NHS Membership – 10 per cent discount on membership fees with no joining fee and one month free. For information on The Carrick and the De Vere membership, visit www.devere.co.uk/golf
What is Premier Beauty’s address in Wishaw? treatments – just show your ID. Send your answers, no later than Friday 12 August, to Martin Stirling at: Communications Department, Kirklands Hospital, Fallside Road, Bothwell G71 8BB. Alternatively, email martin.stirling@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk with “Premier Beauty Competition” as the subject. Remember to include your job title, place of work and a contact telephone number. For more details on Premier Beauty or to make an appointment, call 01698 360288 or 07515 536033, or go to www.premierbeauty.biz
Youngson’s e BARBARA savings have received a £100 boost after she won the NHS Credit Union competition from the last edition of The Pulse. The administrator at doctors Fife, Docherty and McCrum at Coatbridge Health Centre, correctly answered that the NHS Credit Union was formed in 1998. NHS Credit Union members can pay into their accounts direct from their salary, making it easier than ever to save and borrow. It pays a regular dividend on savings, and offers a range of financial services. It is also concerned about the financial welfare of members, rather than just making a profit. For more information, call 0141 445 0022 or go to www.nhscreditunion.com
18 thePulse YOUR HEALTH
JULY/AUGUST 2011
HISTORY MAKING A BETTER FUTURE Members of new occupational therapy group are gaining skills and confidence A HISTORY group which produces fascinating historical booklets and posters is also succeeding in improving mental health and wellbeing. The Pather Occupational Therapy History Group was started in late 2010 by occupational therapy assistant Paul McGinn. He said: “We work with people who need support in using community services and help in building their self confidence. “The history group came about because it became clear that it was an area that interested most people. “It has proved to be a great success and the guys in the group have not only succeeded in improving their motivation, social skills and confidence, but they’re also proving they’re a talented bunch.” The group has now completed several projects on a diverse range of topics, including the Berlin Wall, the Boer War, the Vietnam War and Ravenscraig. Paul said: “The ultimate aim of the group is to take the skills gained through occupational therapy and transfer them to daily living.
HISTORY BOYS: Pictured from back, Paul McGinn, Jon Edge, Donald Howie and Edward Simpson.
“Not only are the members gaining confidence in getting out, mixing with people and researching topics – a few of the group members have also been able to develop new computing skills for creating and printing documents and using the internet.” The four current members are Jon Edge, Donald Howie, Edward Simpson and John Simmons. Jon said: “There’s no pressure to produce work every week, sometimes you might not do anything, but it takes you out of your comfort zone and challenges you and gives you a reason to get out and about.” Edward added: “I really enjoy the group. It’s very educational, but we have a good laugh. “We talk about our experiences of doing the research and it allows people to express themselves and be really creative.” Donald said: “Using libraries, using the buses, getting out and about – you feel as if you are doing something productive – not just going to an occupational therapy group. It’s a history group and it’s giving you real life skills that you can use every day.”
Focusing on mental health A PHOTOGRAPHY group involved in helping people with mental health problems held an exhibition in Lanark to showcase their work. The Clydesdale Resource Network Photography Group, based in Lanark Health Centre, hosted “Open Your Mind – ‘see me’!” in the town’s Tolbooth. And more than 100 people attended the event, which aimed to change people’s perceptions of mental ill health. Eileen Currie, an occupational therapy assistant practitioner who facilitates the club, said: “By displaying their work, the group’s members demonstrated that people with mental health issues can be engaged in activities and roles that
are purposeful and enjoyable. “They hope this will lead to people changing their perceptions of mental illness, becoming better informed and seeing that mental ill health is common, can be experienced by anyone and can be recovered from.” Last year, the club, which has been running for almost four years, received a huge boost when it received an award for £2,700 from ‘see me’, the Scottish campaign to end the stigma and discrimination of mental ill health. Eileen said: “This money allowed us to buy photographic equipment and training for members from a professional photographer. “As a result, the group’s digital photography, organisational,
SNAPPY DAYS: Photography group members and occupational therapy staff. Eileen Currie is second from left, front row communication and interpersonal skills have improved greatly over the past year.” John O’Connor is a graduate of Glasgow School of Art, and also displayed some of his stunning artwork at the exhibition. He said: “There are a wide variety
of benefits from the photography club. It not only gives something to look forward to each week, and helps you feel more positive, it’s also good for your physical health.” Donald Thomson added: “The group has everything you need to get started, you don’t even need your
own camera. “The quality of the photographs are really high and you gain confidence from knowing you are doing something positive. “You also feel as if you are a valued member of the community,” added Donald.
TRAINING
JULY/AUGUST 2011
thePulse 19
Unlock your potential
Leaders in the making
“BE All You Can Be” is a three-day development programme which enables participants to take more control over their own lives. The course, which is held once a fortnight, is designed for staff from all backgrounds and age groups. The programme will feature topics such as: q self assessment q skills assessment q identifying your values q setting goals q assertiveness q networking q putting yourself across positively q building your image.
TWO NHS Lanarkshire colleagues graduated in May with postgraduate certificates in Frontline Leadership and Management. Wendy Feeney, lead nurse specialist for fracture/osteoporosis, and Anne Marie Murphy, senior charge nurse with the Community Mental Health Team for Older People, based at Atholl House in East Kilbride, successfully completed
Nominations are now being taken for the August 2011 programme. For further information, dates and venue, visit the training and development site on FirstPort at: http://firstport/sites/odandtraining/ traininganddevelopment/default.aspx Course nomination forms can be obtained from FirstPort at http://firstport/sites/odandtraining/ traininganddevelopment/default.aspx or from Sue Devine at
[email protected] or telephone 01698 377807.
their studies on the delivery of leadership and management skills. Pictured is Wendy, who is based at Coathill Hospital, but works across Lanarkshire. Anne Marie was unable to attend the ceremony at the Albert Halls, Stirling in May. The duo were part of 73 NHSScotland staff who completed the programme, which is a result of collaboration
between NHS Education for Scotland (NES) and education providers De Montfort University and the University of the Highlands and Islands. The postgraduate certificate is open to NHSScotland staff in clinical and nonclinical jobs who are keen to take on a more proactive leadership role within their workplace.
Words on the wards Staff pick up terminology
The graduates
SIXTEEN NHS Lanarkshire administration staff are now up to speed with some complex medical terminology after passing a sixweek training programme. The health board colleagues were rewarded at a ceremony at Coatbridge College following completion of the medical terminology course. Agnes Robb, NHS Lanarkshire training manager, said: “The course started in January and runs for 20 weeks. “The aim of this programme is to provide staff with the knowledge and skills to demonstrate an understanding of the medical
terminology used to describe the structure, physiology, pathological conditions, investigations, abbreviations and pharmacology related to each body system and medical specialty. “NHS Lanarkshire works in
partnership with Coatbridge College to deliver this course which is specifically designed to meet the needs of the staff.” Clare Flynn, curriculum leader for Business and Management at Coatbridge College, said: “We have
a strong and flourishing relationship with NHS Lanarkshire and we look forward to working with them again in the future. “I hope the learners on this course will be inspired to continue their lifelong learning journey.”
The latest graduates from the course are: q Airbles Road: Sharon Struthers q Bellshill Locality: Jennifer Wilson q Cleland Hospital: Liz McCrossan q Hairmyres Hospital: Eileen Campbell, Veronica Dorricott, Sandra Hamilton and Yvonne Tonner q Law House: Maureen Graham and Marie McLaughlin q Monklands Hospital: Geraldine Marshall and Kirsty Norwood q Udston Hospital: Carolyn Hayes and Aileen Orr q Wishaw Health Centre: Carly Marshall q Wishaw General Hospital: Joyce Paton and Elizabeth Welsh
Training Planner ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
q Training schedules, nomination forms and more information is available on the Training and Development homepage on FirstPort or at http://firstport/sites/ odandtraining/trainingand development/default.aspx If you have any other enquires, please contact the training co-ordinators: Sue Devine (Law House) 01698 377807 sue.devine@lanarkshire. scot.nhs.uk Lorna Galloway (Wishaw General) 01698 366765 lorna.galloway@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
MEDICAL EDUCATION
EDUCATION PROGRAMME
q For queries, contact training co-ordinators on 01698 366521 or meded@lanarkshire. scot.nhs.uk Training co-ordinators will contact new consultants direct regarding the Consultant Induction and Professional Development programme. To book any other senior courses, use the booking system which is available on the MEDED website www.medednhsl.com
q Courses for nurses, midwives and AHPs Courses for all NHS Lanarkshire nurses, midwives, AHPs and their support workers are available. For more information on the different courses and dates available, log on to the PDC website. Visit www.lanpdc.scot.nhs.uk
PRACTICE DEVELOPMENT
Contacts: Rita Cloughley 01698 366581 Morag Downie 01698 366575 Anne Halavage 01698 366582 Natalie Snodgrass 01698 366590
HEALTH & SAFETY
q For training schedules and nomination forms, access as follows: Firstport/Staff Support Services/Occ Health SALUS/Downloads For more information, contact: Sandra Sweeney 01236 707721 or email sandra.sweeney@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
LIBRARIES
Contacts: Amanda Minns (Hairmyres) 01355 585488/7 Lisa McLaren (Wishaw General) 01698 366316 Paul Herbert (Monklands) 01236 712005 Carol Hallesy (Law House) 01698 377600/01 Grant Donaghy (Law House) 01698 377602
q Classes are available in: The Knowledge Network RefWorks Ovid Medline Ebsco CINAHL Cochrane Library
MOVING & HANDLING
or email sandra.sweeney@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
q For training schedules and nomination forms, access as follows: Firstport/Staff Support Services/Occ Health SALUS/Downloads For more information, contact: Sandra Sweeney 01236 707721
PaMoVA
(Prevention and Management of Violence and Aggression) q It is essential for all staff to take care of their personal
Contact your local library for dates and availability.
safety and be aware of the safety of others. To reduce the risk of being a victim of aggression or violent behaviour, NHS Lanarkshire provides PaMoVA training for all staff. Contact PaMoVA advisors on 01236 707198.
20 thePulse ACHIEVEMENTS
JULY/AUGUST 2011
STEP UP: From left, Jennifer Newman, step activity winner Theresa Coyle, and Shirley Mitchell who took part in a 10-mile event.
PHYSICAL activity promotion took a huge step forward recently – or 24,438,817 steps to be precise – when NHS Lanarkshire staff in Cambuslang and Rutherglen took part in a step count challenge. The 42 staff members walked the equivalent of 12,219 miles in only 12 weeks, for the Paths to Health event to promote physical activity at work. Jennifer Newman, a senior health promotion officer with NHS Lanarkshire who helped co-ordinate the challenge, said: “We had eight teams taking part in the challenge and all of us have seen a huge improvement in not only our fitness levels, but also our wellbeing. “The challenge was less really about getting people more active, more often and just increasing their daily step counts. “Exercise really does make you feel better, helps you have a better night’s
sleep and helps to reduce stress levels. “Just getting out of the office, away from the computer and desk for 10 minutes at lunchtime, really does make such a difference to the day.” Paths to Health is the national charity promoting walking for health and path network development in Scotland and their Walk at Work programme is funded by the Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives. Paths to Health provided all staff taking part in the challenge with a pedometer for 12 weeks to monitor their steps. In addition to helping improve staff health and promote the benefits of physical activity, the challenge will also help the Cambuslang and Rutherglen locality work towards their Silver Healthy Working Lives Award, which involves an ongoing commitment to promoting physical activity in the workplace.
POSTER PRIZE Footcare expert recognised HAIRMYRES Hospital’s Duncan Stang has helped transform the footcare of patients with diabetes and recently received international recognition for this work. The NHS Lanarkshire advanced diabetes podiatrist won first prize for a poster he presented at the International Diabetic Foot conference in Noordwijkerhout, The Netherlands. This poster summarised some of the ongoing work Duncan, who has also been the diabetes foot coordinator for Scotland since 2007, has developed along with the Scottish Diabetes Group Foot Action Group, which he helps support. Duncan said: “To be invited to present this poster at such a huge conference was an honor in itself.
“There were another 120 poster presentations from around the world so to win first prize was absolutely fantastic. “It’s great recognition for the work being carried out in NHS Lanarkshire and Scotland.” People with diabetes are at particular risk of developing foot ulcers, which can take a long time to heal, need intense treatment and can cause serious problems if not treated correctly. To help minimise these risks Duncan has developed a traffic-light risk stratification system, with the valued help and expertise of Hairmyres medical illustration department. Since taking up his post in 2007, the number of Scots with diabetes
AWARD: From left, chair of the conference Dr W.H. Van Houton, Duncan Stang and Professor Andrew Boulton
who have undergone foot-screening resulting in risk stratification has leapt from 25 per cent to the current figure of 61 per cent. This rise is in line with the Scottish Government’s targets for foot-screening, highlighted in the
Scottish Diabetes Action Plan. Duncan is now striving towards the goal of 80 per cent by April 2012. He said: “This is being achieved through the web-based Scottish Care Information Diabetes Collaboration (SCI-DC) system.
“This web-based system is to support patients with diabetes and managed clinical networks across NHSScotland. “By using the traffic-light risk stratification and triage system that we developed, the SCI-DC footscreening tool means patients can be provided with the most suitable package of treatment and preventive care by automatically calculating the risk of them developing a foot ulcer and guiding their treatment appropriately in line with the new Quality Outcome Framework targets recently introduced.” Apart from the prestige of winning first prize at the international conference the award came with a cheque for € 750 to help with future work of the Foot Action Group to reach the Scottish gover nment targets and improve diabetes footcare across Scotland.
