A focus on specialist patient care and improving patient recovery times are why two of our nursing teams were finalists in the prestigious Nursing Times Awards last night.
Our finalists
- Robyn Bowman, Clinical Nurse Specialist for Pelvic Late Effects – finalist in the Public Health Nursing category for the Between the Navel and the Knees project.
- Neuro Critical Care team – finalists in the Critical and Emergency Care Nursing category.
Supporting patients with pelvic cancer – Robyn Bowman
Between the Navel and the Knees was developed following extensive feedback from patients who had undergone pelvic cancer chemoradiotherapy treatment. Patients wanted more open, compassionate and practical information about intimacy and sexual wellbeing post-treatment.
Robyn collaborated with artist Kata Balogh and local poet Jack Collins to share the stories of three patients who have courageously talked about their experiences.
Supportive videos
A series of videos have also been created that aim to reduce feelings of isolation and encourage open conversations about difficult topics. The videos will be available on our website from November highlighting the support and treatment options available to patients.
Improving patient recovery time – Neuro Critical Care
The Neuro Critical Care team, led by matron Laura Sedgley, was a finalist for its efforts to improve care for patients who have suffered a brain injury, stroke or have hydrocephalus – a neurological condition caused by abnormal build-up of fluid in the brain.
These patients were fitted with an external ventricular drain tube to relieve pressure and drain excess fluid from the brain. The team has also introduced additional measures that will help to prevent infection, aid recovery and allow patients to go home safely sooner.
Infection prevention measures include:
- pillow care where dedicated red head pillows are used for patients
- daily changing of pillowcases
- nursing colleagues are trained on safe handling and storage
These and the introduction of other patient safety measures have so far resulted in patients leaving intensive care five days sooner than before.
Beverley Geary, Chief Nurse at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said: “I’m delighted for our nursing teams gaining national recognition in their industry awards. Nurses are such a vital part of our hospital workforce, and it makes me very proud to know that two of our teams have been in the national limelight for the dedicated and specialist care they provide to patients.
“Both projects just show the creativity and innovation of our clinical teams, listening to patients and their challenges, and developing patient-centred solutions to deliver change and better health outcomes. Well done to all.”