Issue 39 Autumn 2015
North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust
Grateful parents
set up charity for hospital’s neonatal unit
World-wide recognition for research doctors
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page 30
Food put to the taste test at member event
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Thank you! Trust thanks staff for their hard work for the recent Care Quality Commission visit pages 18-19
Two new non executive directors join the board Two new non executive directors have been appointed to the board of directors.
Hospital chaplain takes on charity bike ride When hospital chaplain Lorraine Miller joined in a 10 week Stockton Active Travel Programme last year she did not realise that she would be taking up cycling again. The programme run by The Hub in Stockton (Sustrans Travel), was set I started to up to encourage staff from local cycle to and businesses to from work only choose to make about six miles a commute and other short trips a day. either by bike or walking instead of jumping in the car, to help them get fitter and feel healthier. The idea was to help staff to increase their fitness and develop a habit that didn’t just last 10 weeks. The trust carried out a fitness test on all of the participants before and after, including taking their BMI, blood pressure, heart rate, weight and cycling on a static bike, so that progress made could be seen over the 10 week programme. Lorraine said: “I started to cycle to and from work only about six miles a day. I gradually increased the distance I was riding and changed my routes. I’ve noticed how my fitness has improved and my general health and wellbeing. I love being outside in the fresh air. “I decided to take part in the Ride London 100 and raise money for charity. I was delighted that I raised around £1,000 for the Breast Cancer Now Charity. “I absolutely love cycling now!” 2 Anthem | Issue 39
Jonathan Erskine and Kevin Robinson were appointed from 1 August for a period of three years. Jonathan Erskine is a research fellow at the centre for public policy and health, part of Durham University’s school of medicine, pharmacy and health at the Stockton campus. He was a former non executive director of Stockton on Tees primary care trust. Kevin Robinson has had a long career in the probation service, starting as probation officer and carrying out a number of leadership roles, most recently as chief
executive of Lancashire Probabtion Trust. In welcoming the new non executive directors to the board, chairman Paul Garvin said: “In Jonathan and Kevin we have two people who will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the trust. “Jonathan’s research in transformational change in health and healthcare systems will be of great benefit to further inform and support the trust as we continue to shape services to meet the needs of future generations. Kevin’s long and distinguished career in the probation service brings us the skills and leadership qualities needed to succeed in the changing world of the NHS and wider public services.”
Celebrating our armed forces staff Staff marked Armed Forces Day – a day to highlight the contribution made by men and women who are part of Britain’s armed forces. Many of our staff have or still do serve in the armed forces, including consultant in emergency medicine Kay Adeboye (pictured right) and A&E healthcare assistant Ben Baino (pictured left) who are both members of reserve forces. Kay is a wing commander in the 612 (County of Aberdeen) Squadron RAF, where he has been for 17 years. Here he is with his medals for service in Iraq, long service and for the Queen’s diamond jubilee. Ben is a private in the 201 Field Hospital which has barracks in Norton. Chief executive Alan Foster is the field hospital’s honorary colonel.
Be clear on cancer Laura Easton
Team support worker Cath Ruocco, staff nurses Francisco San Diego, Jackie Fletcher and Denise Whittaker, housekeeper Mell Evans and also Cath’s husband Ed
Charity walk raises vital funds
A woman from Norton who was treated for breast cancer has backed a campaign to raise awareness for women who are over 70. Laura Easton, 78, has urged any older women to visit their doctor if they see any changes to their breasts. A national Be Clear on Cancer campaign was run recently to highlight breast cancer in older women. Laura said: “I feel really strongly about telling people about my own experience because it shows you how easily you can miss the warning signs. “I had noticed a rash on the skin. It was a few spots, it was like eczema, which I thought was strange because I don’t have problems with my skin. “Around that time I was due to visit the GP to get my blood pressure checked. While I was there I had the spots looked at and was prescribed a cream. This didn’t help clear it up, so I went back to the GP who referred me to a specialist.” In February, Laura was referred to the breast unit at the University Hospital of North Tees where tests were carried out and she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Within days she had surgery to have a mastectomy and, because the cancer was caught early, she has not needed chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment. Instead, she takes a pill known as Letrozole daily which reduces the risk of cancer returning. With the support of her two sons and four grandchildren, as well as her close friend
and neighbour Jan Harley Judith Butler, she has made a quick recovery. She said: “At first it didn’t register. From that point everything happened so quickly that I didn’t have time to think, which I feel lucky about really because I didn’t have time to worry. “My family have always been here to support me as well as my friend Judy, who herself is a nurse, which has helped when I have needed help understanding things. Staff in the unit have been nothing but superb. They were always at the end of the phone if I didn’t understand anything. “I don’t like to be the centre of attention, but I want to be part of this campaign because I feel strongly about it. “Women around my age should not hesitate to visit their doctor if they experience anything unusual. It’s not just about looking for lumps – it’s any changes in your breasts you experience.” Jan Harley, lead cancer nurse, said: “The key message about this campaign is that one in three women who get breast cancer are over 70, so they must not assume they are not at risk. “If women over 70 see any changes to their breasts they should visit their GP. Women like Laura prove that if you are diagnosed early it is treatable. It is fantastic to see Laura looking so well having made a full recovery.” For more information about the campaign visit www.nhs.uk/be-clear-on-cancer/ breast-cancer/
Colleagues who work in critical care have taken part in a walk to raise vital funds for charity. The group completed a 20 mile walk up to Loadpot Hill overlooking Lake Ullswater, up to a height of 2,200 feet, raising over £500 for the Sick Children’s Trust, a charitable organisation in Newcastle which provides support for families with children who have ongoing or life limiting illnesses. Team support worker Cath Ruocco said: “We do a charity walk every year now and we pick a charity that is personal to the staff on the unit. Everyone who took part did a fantastic job, the walk was very gruelling and very steep in places. “The granddaughter of Mell Evans – housekeeper on critical care, was born with congenital heart disease at the end of last year. She has had to have lots of heart surgery due to various problems and is still having ongoing treatment. “The Sick Children’s Trust enabled the family to be able to stay close to Hope’s bedside at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle while she was having surgery and treatment. They were an immense support to the family while they were staying there, so we wanted to help Mell to give something back to such a fantastic charity.”
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Pharmacy dementia friends More than 40 staff in the pharmacy team have made a pledge to be a dementia friend - helping raise awareness about dementia.
People say ‘I do’ for national transplant week
The trust’s dementia team regularly hold dementia friend sessions for staff. Directorate pharmacist Jess Purkiss recently asked if they could visit the team to talk to them. Community dementia nurse Jane Hayllar said: “We were asked to go to pharmacy to deliver two dementia friend sessions. “They are often held during lunch breaks and we were expecting we might have around 10-15 people attending. We were overwhelmed by how many people were there and the interest they showed – more than 40 people in the pharmacy department have become dementia friends and many have signed up to the trust’s dementia champion programme . “The team’s passion and enthusiasm for making improvements for people with dementia is really inspiring. The more dementia friends we have the more chance
People are being urged to say I do to mark this year’s national transplant week. Specialist nurse, organ donation, Clare Fletcher asked colleagues (including two ambulance drivers!) to show their support for the campaign. Clare said: “There is an ever I’d like growing number of people waiting to thank for transplants. colleagues for We sometimes their support. find that people’s families don’t know their wishes so will not consent to organ donation when their loved one dies. Signing up to the organ donor register, and ensuring your loved ones know your wishes, is the best way to ensure your wishes are carried out if the worst should happen. “I’d like to thank colleagues for their support. I was very moved when I saw Barbara (pictured), a retired nurse, who needed a lung transplant quickly following an illness called pulmonary fibrosis. Here she is nine weeks after her transplant. Barbara was filled with emotion as she talked about how grateful she is to her organ donor.” Find out more about national transplant week at www.nhsbt.nhs.uk 4 Anthem | Issue 39
Bishop welcomes new chaplain The Bishop of Jarrow paid a special visit to the chapel at the University Hospital of North Tees to officially welcome chaplain Robert Cooper to the trust. Right reverend Mark Bryant visited the chapel, holding a service to licence Robert into the chaplaincy post.
we have of getting people to understand what it is like for people who have dementia.” While dementia friends pledge to spread the word about the condition, dementia champions are trained and supported by the dementia team and can run information sessions. Jess said: “The team in pharmacy is really passionate about helping raise awareness about dementia. They want to make a difference and help more people understand what it is like for someone who has dementia and what we can do to help them. “I would also like to thank the dementia team for visiting us and helping inspire us to make a difference.” The trust’s dementia team not only helps care for patients with dementia and their family and friends but also supports and trains staff. Symptoms of dementia can include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problemsolving or language. Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes.
Hospital doctor warns of dangers of drugs offered to young people The man in charge of Stockton’s accident and emergency services warns young people to steer clear of drugs. Andy Simpson who, as well as being a consultant in emergency
care medicine, heads up the accident and emergency department at the University Hospital of North Tees said: “We’ve seen a worrying number of young people between the ages of 12 and 16 in the department suffering from the effects of taking recreational drugs. “The main drugs young people coming in tell us they’ve taken in varying amounts are gabapentin, amitriptyline, diazepam and cocaine. While these are prescription drugs they are drugs of abuse in the wrong hands and one is Class A drug. The
drugs are also very likely to have mixed with other harmful substances. “These drugs can lead to serious breathing difficulties and can lead to people needing to be ventilated. As an A and E doctor I have also seen deaths from young people taking amitriptyline. “While taking these drugs can be seen as a bit of fun, it is definitely not that in my view. “We are appealing to younger people, please do not take these drugs. They can make you seriously ill or even kill you. It’s just not worth taking the risk.”
Trainees feature in new website Medical trainees have been talking about their time at the trust, as part of a new Health Education North East (HENE) website – www.nhsfindyourplace.co.uk John Heffernan is originally from the midlands and came to the North East before studying medicine as a mature student. I have found the North East is an amazing place to live and work. It is the country’s best-kept secret - it has everything! The people are friendly and genuine, the roads are quieter than most of the country and within easy reach is some of the country’s most beautiful attractions. Newcastle is a busy and vibrant city with an international reputation for being a great place to have fun. There are some hidden gems too; within a hour’s drive there is the English Lakes, the gorgeous white sandy beaches of I have found Northumberland the North East or even the Scottish border is an amazing country, closer to place to live home there is great and work. surfing along the coast and inland there is some of the country’s best white water kayaking. Indeed on the Tees there is one of the country’s few artificial white water centres; where you can learn to kayak or enjoy white water rafting. I have found studying and working here an excellent experience. There is a great
A film crew toured the region with a sofa, interviewing F2 trainees Daniel Curwen and Raheel Ahmed for a film, while three other trainees’ stories are also featured.
spectrum of hospital in which to work, each delivering a different aspect of work and study - from the large specialist tertiary centres to smaller friendly district general teaching hospitals. The deanery (HENE) and the training and support teams within the hospitals have been very supportive and encouraging, with lots of protected teaching time and great tuition and supervision. I couldn’t have imagined having a better experience. Nick Matthews is at the end of his final year of speciality training and will be starting a post as a consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology at City Hospitals Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust. He said: “I have worked at the trust over three separate periods. Staff have been fantastic with me – compared to larger trusts I have worked at, senior staff can spend more time with trainees here which means we learn more and get more experience. “I am from Yorkshire and have always loved the area. I like to get outdoors in the beautiful countryside we are surrounded by, and also like to go fly fishing. With places like Newcastle and Middlesbrough not far away, there is plenty to do in the evening as well.”
Sami Shawer is at the end of his first year of specialty training in obstetrics and gynaecology at the trust. Sami, who moved to the UK from Egypt to continue his career, lives with his wife and baby daughter near to where he works at the University Hospital of North Tees. He said: “I have really enjoyed the last year working here. It’s always difficult for someone from a different culture coming here and getting used to a completely different way of life. “I live in I have really Eaglescliffe and my family love it enjoyed the there. There are last year plenty of great working here. restaurants we go regularly in the area. My wife and I are members of a great local gym so I spend some of my free time there and I also like to play tennis and be out in the countryside. “I have lived and worked down south before and it was really noticeable how much more friendly people are up here. Around the trust, staff have been very friendly and helpful to me and have always been there to support me. I definitely want to come back here to work in the future.” Anthem | Autumn 2015 5
Celebratin Staff shared inspiring stories about care and compassion at an event held a year since the official launch of the 6Cs at the trust. Speakers talked passionately about the 6Cs care, compassion, competence, communication, courage and commitment – at a conference the trust hosted at Teesside University. Last year a 6Cs team was appointed to help drive forward the messages across the trust. Since then the 6Cs has been embedded across the trust and more care makers (6Cs advocates) have been taken on than at any other trust nationally. The event was opened by director of nursing,
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ng the 6Cs patient safety and quality Cath Siddle and chaired by chief executive Alan Foster in the morning and by chairman Paul Garvin in the afternoon. Speakers included founder of Insights Andi Lothian, deputy director of nursing quality and safety, NHS England North, Cumbria and the North East Alison Smith, and head of quality assurance at North of England NHS England Emma Nunez. The trust’s 6Cs team, Local Improvement System (LIS) team and several of the trust’s care makers also spoke, as well as Jill Foley, programme director of pre-registration nursing at Teesside University and two of her student nurses, Samantha Eaton and Gillian Cooley.
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Hospital mortuary manager nominated for top honour The trust’s mortuary and bereavement service manager Michelle Lancaster was announced as a finalist in the Good Funeral Awards. Michelle was a finalist in the Mortuary Assistant (APT) Team or Individual category, after being selected from hundreds of nominees to go through to the final stages of this year’s awards ceremony at the University of Winchester. The Association of Anatomical Pathology Technology (AAPT) Council nominated Michelle for the award, describing her enthusiasm, willingness to share, always having a constant smile no matter what and an infectious and a positive influence on those around her. Michelle works to raise standards and deliver the best possible service to deceased and bereaved. Michelle helped develop national care standards which trainees are assessed against as part of the new qualifications. Michelle has assisted in the training of dozens of students since the trust became the first national training centre to provide the The Royal Society of Public Health Level 3 Diploma in Anatomical Pathology Technology. Michelle runs the course, which gets to see students awarded an academically recognised qualification which allows them to apply to complete the level 4 diploma in APT all the way through to a level 6 BSc Hons degree - something mortuary staff have never been able to do before. Michelle said: “It was an honour to be recognised as a finalist in the awards. Our dedicated training programme is going from strength to strength and has already attracted international candidates. The success is also testament to the excellent team I work with. “We are constantly working hard at the trust to improve our mortuary services. The work that all mortuary teams do is vital for families of those who have sadly died. That’s why we need to make sure that the care we provide is the best it possibly can be.” For more information about the awards go to www. goodfuneral awards.co.uk 8 Anthem | Issue 39
Sim training Gastroenterology staff have been using the state of the art training facilities in the trust’s simulation suite at the University Hospital of North Tees to get practice in situations they might come across in real life.
Jennings Motor Group supports trust’s new advertising initiative Award-winning Jennings Motor Group has teamed up with the trust to support a new advertising campaign initiative – the first of its kind to be launched across the region. Jennings Motor Group, which operates Ford, Kia, Mazda, SEAT and Mitsubishi dealerships across the north east, has signed up to a sixmonth advertising contract with the trust. The aim of the campaign, which has initially introduced at the University Hospital of North Tees, is to promote the Motability programme available across Jennings Motor Group’s branch network. The advertising campaign, which includes lift sponsorship, poster displays in patient waiting areas and car parking bay advertising, is already proving to be a success with a number of enquiries having already been generated, in addition to new customers being signed up to We’re delighted the Motability programme with to have signed Jennings. a contract Jill Wilson, group Motability specialist with Jennings based at Jennings Motor Group. Ford’s dealership in Stockton, said: “We are delighted to have teamed up with the trust to launch the new Motability advertising campaign. “Being given the opportunity to promote our products and services within the public sector, will allow us to reach a wide target audience.” Commercial manager for the trust Tony Wilson said: “We’re delighted to have signed a contract with Jennings Motor Group to promote Motability. “We’ve already seen an increase in the number of people contacting Jennings so we know this type of advertising is effective. By carrying adverts, we can also support patient care by bring in additional income.” The Motability programme is available at any Jennings Ford, Kia, Mazda, SEAT and Mitsubishi dealerships where dedicated Motability specialists and deputy specialists are on hand to see to individual needs and requirements. To qualify for a vehicle through Motability, customers must be in receipt of either the higher Rate mobility component of disability living allowance, enhanced rate of the mobility component of personal independence payment, armed forces
independence payment or war pensioners’ mobility supplement. In addition to being given the option of being able to choose a new car every three years and nominate up to two drivers, the worry-free Motability package also includes insurance, servicing and maintenance, full breakdown assistance from the RAC, free replacement tyres and windscreen replacement at no extra cost. Customers can also take advantage of a number of additional services on offer at Jennings’ branches, including a home visit service for those who are unable to visit the dealership in person, in addition to an adaptation service, which allows a vehicle to be specifically adapted to meet individual needs. For more information about the range of Motability products and services available at Jennings Motor Group, visit www.jenningsmotorgroup.co.uk
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New system to improve safety A new system to improve safety for staff and patients has been introduced at the trust.
The latest advances in medicine Ebola, simulation training, stroke medicine, GI bleeding, clostridium difficile, respiratory medicine and the future of the NHS were on the agenda at the latest recent advances in medicine conference. The event, run by clinical director in hospital services and consultant physician Deepak Dwarakanath, finished with a question and answer session with the president of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. Deepak said: “Healthcare is always moving on and it was really interesting to hear from professionals about how their own areas of expertise continue to develop. “Feedback was excellent – delegates were really interested in all of the presentations.” Recent advances in medicine is hosted every two years and is held in the Middlefield Centre at the University Hospital of North Tees.
The system by Who Are You Ltd is a new company representative credentialing system, which is designed to make sure that company representatives have the same credential checks as staff and have been given access to the site. The new system is currently being trialled in theatres at the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool. Head of procurement and supplies Jane Hawkes said: “Suppliers are checked on this system for a number of things, including a criminal record check, evidence of an in-date theatre access course accreditation and proof of hepatitis B vaccinations, as well as a validated photo and contact details.
“When suppliers arrive at the trust company representatives will check-in at an automated kiosk in the procurement and supplies department at the University Hospital of North Tees, where a badge is printed off and given to them to wear at all times while they are on site. “Depending on the representative’s registration checks and entry requirements they will have access to coloured zones around the hospital dependant on the level of access they have registered for. “All trust staff members have already gone through the same credential checks. It is important that company representatives accessing the same wards and departments go through the same checks. “The safety of our patients and staff is our priority and by introducing this new system we are demonstrating our commitment to this.”
No socks rocks appeal raises much needed funds for earthquake victims Consultant paediatrician Anil Tuladhar (centre) encouraged people to take their socks off (just for a moment) and ask their friends and colleagues to sponsor them to raise money for the victims of the Nepal earthquake. Anil, who has helped raise thousands of pounds for the appeal so far, is part of the organising team of No Socks Rocks, which challenged people to take their socks off to raise much needed funds to aid the recovery of the people devastated by the earthquake in April. Colleagues were asked to put their best foot forward, post a picture of their feet on the appeal page and asking friends and
colleagues to donate. No Socks Rocks boosted the appeal to over £62,000. The funds will go to Health Exchange Nepal who work with various organisations to provide relief in the form of shelters and medical help. The charity is also starting a rehabilitation programme (both physical and psychological) in the outskirts of Kathmandu called Dhulikhel which is accessible to the people around the epicentre. You can support the Nepal appeal at https://mydonate.bt.com/events/ earthquakechild/223973 or text (UK only) QKNP15 £5 to 70070 and donate £5 (costs £5 and standard text charge).
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Putting their best feet forward for the No Socks Rocks appeal are doctor Jiyan Darabi, consultant paediatrians Ramesh Srivinasan, Anil Tuladhar and Harikumar with nurse practitioner Nicola Richardson and play specialist Sandra Jackson 10 Anthem | Issue 39
Some of the peer supporters who have already completed the course
More peer supporters to help breastfeeding mums The trust has recruited more women to its peer supporter course to help breastfeeding mums. At the end of the course the women will join our group of peer support volunteer and achieve a One Awards qualification. Infant feeding lead at the trust Ros Nunn (pictured) said: “Our peer supporters are fantastic. It’s all about giving women an informed choice so they know the benefits of breast feeding. “Often when mums wish they could have breast fed for longer, we find that they just needed a bit more support or somebody to say you’re doing really well, keep going and you’ll get there in the end. “Supporting mums to breastfeed is essential, especially support from their partners, family and friends. The peer supporters are very enthusiastic and very willing to give their time and experience to help mothers breast feed for longer. “The peer support groups are great because they offer mums a really informal way of accessing local support. “We’re not here to tell women what to do but to work with them to make the choices that they find most comfortable.”
New clinical pharmacy educator appointed The trust has appointed its first clinical pharmacy educator to support undergraduate healthcare staff in medicines management. Amy-Madeleine Hall, who has been a pharmacist for four years, is planning and teaching education sessions around medicines management and safe prescribing for undergraduates and medical trainees as part of the FINEST programme (Faculty for Interprofessional Education and Staff Training). Amy trained in Birmingham and has gained a wealth of experience, including working with staff at Durham University to develop interprofessional education sessions. She said: “I will be working with other health professionals to support and educate undergraduate and postgraduate healthcare staff.” Foundation programme tutor Dolon Basu added: “We are delighted to have Amy in the team. We are dedicated to providing our trainees with the very best education to enable them to learn and provide the highest quality of care to our patients.” Anthem | Autumn 2015 11
Thank y our ama volunte Volunteers were the VIP guests at a party held every year to thank them for everything they do. As a way of showing their appreciation, staff gave up their evening to put on a night of entertainment in the restaurant at the University Hospital of North Tees.
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you to azing eers Catering staff were working all day from early in the morning preparing food, while many staff helped serve guests food and soft drinks, which was followed by a performance from the staff choir who sang big band songs. Chairman Paul Garvin, who hosted the event, thanked guests for all of their hard work, as well as staff who helped make the evening a success.
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Money raised in memory of Aaron
Support gets Suzanne back on her feet
Research nurse Louise Parkin and her colleagues held a fundraiser to collect money for her very sick school friend Aaron Cavanagh. Louise (pictured, left), who ran a fundraising stand in the University Hospital of North Tees, had planned to raise enough money to help Aaron enjoy the rest of his life. Tragically, not long afterwards Aaron’s condition deteriorated rapidly and he sadly passed away. His family were instead able to use the money to go towards Aaron’s funeral. She said: “Aaron suffered from cystic fibrosis from childhood and in the last few years he deteriorated to the point he was put on the transplant list for a double lung transplant. He had five failed attempts of getting new lungs and it was very difficult for Aaron and his family. “From beginning of the year Aaron further deteriorated and spent time in Teesside Hospice. He was there for a few weeks and in this time he was removed from the transplant list as he was too poorly. This had a devastating blow to him and his family. This was when I decided to raise money for Aaron and his family so that he could have something to look forward too with his family. “We raised an amazing £350! I was overwhelmed as was Aaron and his family at everyone’s kindness and generosity. Unfortunately, the week after the fundraising, Aaron’s health took a dramatic decline and he ended up back in St. James in Leeds, where his specialist treatment took place. “On the 3 July, we sadly lost Aaron. He died peacefully with his partner and family around him. It has only been these weeks after his death that we have all learnt about the impact that Aaron had on so many lives. He really touched so many lives. The Gazette published a beautiful tribute to him on the front page and double spread inside, his Facebook pages had hundreds of messages. Aaron’s funeral was held on 15 July at St Mary’s church in Stockton, it was a beautiful service and everyone did him proud. “It was counted a total of 510 people were in the church that day. It truly shows how loved he was and that he will never be forgotten.” 14 Anthem | Issue 39
When podiatrist Suzanne Bradford had an accident a number of years ago, she had no idea how it would impact her life. But thanks to the support of the trust’s health and wellbeing team, she is back on her feet. Suzanne explained: “I pulled ligaments in my feet. A year later it still wasn’t right. An ultrasound showed that there was lots of fluid and I ended up having surgery. “I was desperately trying to get back to work. My foot was like a balloon. “I was referred to a musculoskeletal specialist, but it never settled down. They thought it was possibly nerve damage. The injuries really began to affect my health. I wasn’t sleeping. I was told I had chronic fatigue pain.
“I was suffering from a lack of sleep, I was gaining weight. I became really ill and was diagnosed with thyroid problems. “I had my work environment reviewed and I was referred to the trust’s occupational health and wellbeing department. Chronic conditions workplace advisor Jill Ness said: “I’m here to help staff like Suzanne, who have pain as a result of conditions such as chronic pain, musculoskeletal conditions and other chronic conditions. We want to support staff to be at work. “I provide general medication advice, pain medication advice, maintain good communication with GPs, acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which helps people with chronic pain and musculoskeletal conditions. I also provide advice and support for staff who have sleep problems, relaxation and difficulty dealing with and accepting their condition. I have much more planned for the future. “The health and wellbeing of our staff is so important. That’s why we encourage them to take good care of themselves and do everything we can to support them.” Suzanne continued: “Jill has saved me. Once all of the issues started to be resolved I was beginning to become the person I was before. She helped me to resolve all of the pain issues and I started to sleep. “I was caught up in a vicious cycle which I couldn’t get out of. It was horrendous. I needed to break the cycle. I saw Jill a number of times and within the first month my family noticed the difference in me. “It is so important to support staff, how Jill has supported me. I enjoy my profession, working with patients and I want to be at work doing the best job I can.“
Clare Harrington, Colin Chapman, Julie Higgins and Debbie Blackwood
Putting food to the taste test at trust member event Members had the chance to put our food to the taste test at the latest member event. Assistant director of nursing Debbie Blackwood presented a short video called I am the patient experience, which was well received. Head of catering Colin Chapman and professional lead for nutrition and dietetics Julie Higgins explained about the importance of nutrition and hydration and what we are doing for our patients to make sure they have a good experience. There was an opportunity for people to try some of the food on offer and visit the information stalls. Thank you to everyone who came along and made the event a success. You can become a member today by signing up at www.nth.nhs.uk/about/membership/
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Trust is top recruiter for frozen shoulder trial The trust is a top recruiter in the clinical trial designed to see whether intense physiotherapy or manipulation under anaesthetic is more effective to treat a frozen shoulder. “Consultant orthopaedic surgeon and principle investigator for the study Rajesh Nanda said: “Frozen shoulder, as its name suggests, is a condition where a patient is unable to move the shoulder. It affects arm movement, usually meaning patients are unable to lift the arm in question above a certain height and it can be painful. Patients are often referred to hospital by their GP after a period of taking pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs to see if the shoulder resolves itself. “For many years there has been no standard treatment for frozen shoulder with treatments ranging from physiotherapy to manipulation under anaesthetic or arthroscopic (key hole) surgical release. However this national trial called UK Frost, led by researchers at York University, is to find out which of the treatments, including intense physiotherapy, is the most effective treatment. “Currently six hospitals across the country are taking part in the trial but we expect to see more coming on stream. We’re delighted to be named as top recruiter as this demonstrates our commitment to the trial.” Director of research and development Samir Gupta said: “Taking an active part in research is vital so we can learn and make improvements for future patients. We encourage all our patients to ask those caring for them in the trust if there is research going and offer to take part in clinical trials. We’re always very grateful to patients who sign up to trials and, in our experience, patients are keen to be involved to further our knowledge and make medical advances to benefit others.”
Thank you for supporting trainees The undergraduate team expressed a huge thank you to staff for the teaching and support given to the Newcastle University medical students. For the second year running the pass rate was 100% - a fantastic achievement. The final year medical students in their feedback to the university said that the staff were “amazing, friendly and welcoming, and that they actually made them feel part of the team”. The undergraduate team have thanked staff for making these results possible and for giving the students a wonderful experience.
Café hears about the care of tiny babies Professor Samir Gupta, consultant neonatologist and director of research and development, was guest speaker at the Café Scientifique, Stockton on Tees in July. Samir (pictured) talked about the care of sick and tiny babies saying how research had significantly increased understanding and saved many more tiny lives. Samir said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the interaction, questions and meeting people who were associated with new born care at the University Hospital of North Tees, even before I was born.” Café Scientifique is an international movement and a branch was set up when the Durham University’s Stockton campus was established. Its aim is to make a wide range of scientific issues available and accessible to the general public. It meets at 8pm at Arc, Dovecot Street, Stockton, usually on the third Tuesday of every month. Find out more at www.casfesci-stockton.org.uk
The audience at the Cafe
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Save a life – spot sepsis Staff are raising awareness of an illness which kills more people each year than bowel, breast and prostate cancer put together. Charge nurse Brian Stothart and health care assistant Tracy Birbeck (pictured) have put up a display in the University Hospital of Hartlepool’s elective care unit (ward 4) to educate patients, visitors and staff about the importance of spotting sepsis. Sepsis is a common and potentially lifethreatening condition triggered by an infection where the body’s immune system goes into overdrive. It sets off a series of reactions including widespread inflammation, swelling and blood clotting. This can lead to a significant decrease in blood pressure, which can mean the blood supply to vital organs such as the brain, heart and kidneys is reduced. If it’s not treated quickly, sepsis can eventually lead to multiple organ failure and death. Early symptoms of sepsis usually develop quickly and can include: • a high temperature (fever) • chills and shivering • a fast heartbeat • fast breathing In some cases, symptoms of more severe sepsis or septic shock (when your blood pressure drops to a dangerously low level) develop soon after. These can include:
• feeling dizzy or faint • confusion or disorientation • nausea and vomiting • diarrhoea • cold, clammy and pale or mottled skin Sepsis is a clinical emergency, requires immediate attention and merits same sense of urgency as other medical emergencies such as stroke and heart attacks. Brian said: “Tracy and I, and everyone on our ward, think it’s vital to draw people’s attention to an illness which results in 100,000 people
being admitted to hospital each year. If it’s spotted and treated quickly then the outcome is good but it can be masked by other symptoms so it’s vital people know about it. “If families know about it they can be on the look-out and very possibly save their loved one’s life by taking action quickly. Sepsis can happen in hospital and at home so all we’re trying to do is tell people about it so they know the warning signs.” Consultant anaesthetist and intensivist Farooq Brohi, who is the trust lead for sepsis, said: “It’s vitally important that we as health professionals recognise and treat sepsis as soon as possible. It’s also important for the public to recognise the signs because time is everything. “Two thirds of people who get sepsis survive because the illness is recognised and treated quickly. We’re asking people to think sepsis. “Health professionals have clearly laid down procedures to follow if sepsis is suspected. If members of the public suspect it in a friend or loved one, it’s vital to seek medical attention straightaway. “Thinking sepsis saves lives.” You can find out more about sepsis at: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Bloodpoisoning/Pages/Introduction.aspx http://www.sepsistrust.org/external_link/ survivesepsis-org/ http://www.rcem.ac.uk/Shop-Floor/ Clinical%20Standards/Sepsis
Thank you for your support A doctor who was involved in a tragic accident has thanked colleagues for their support. Foundation doctor Pamela Mayozer, who was in her second year of training was mountaineering with a group of friends in Glencoe, Scotland over two and a half years ago, when the group were tragically caught in a snow avalanche. Pamela spent five months in hospital after suffering serious head injuries and traumatic brain injury. She said: “My life changed. I lost my friends that day. Doctors didn’t think I’d be able to speak again – but I spoke. They didn’t think I’d be able to be a doctor again. “I had to learn to walk again. I broke many bones – my back, my ankle and my leg. “At the time of the accident I was working in accident and emergency at the University Hospital of North Tees. I was overwhelmed with the support I’ve had since the accident. I was visited in hospital by the consultants I was working for. “I wanted to come back to work once it was possible and I wanted to work at this trust. It is familiar and everyone has been so supportive.
“ I’m taking each day as it comes. I came back to the trust to work voluntarily, but I’ll be continuing with my training. I’ve been working in the emergency assessment unit and I can’t thank everyone enough for their support, especially Dr Wallace, who has been helping me to re-build my confidence. “That day changed my life. But I just wanted to say thank you.”
Members recruited at college event Elected governors for Hartlepool Maureen Rogers and Pauline Robson represented the trust at the recent freshers’ event at Hartlepool College of Further Education. It was an excellent chance to speak to students and staff, while recruiting 60 new members for the trust. Anthem | Autumn 2015 17
Julie Lane and Debbie Blackwood who co-ordinated the visit
Thank
Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission paid us a v inspectors, drawn from other areas of the NHS, patient r wide range of areas across the trust. They also met som board of directors and held a number of focus groups wi Masefield Road district nurses
Under the leadership of director of nursing, patient safety and quality Cath Siddle deputy director of nursing, clinical governance and patient safety Julie Lane and assistant director for nursing and professional standards Debbie Blackwood, supported by personal assistant Steph Ansdell, formed the team which co-ordinated the visit.
A massive amount of work was done to prepare for the visit
Patient safety team
Massive amount of work
Julie said: “A massive amount of work was done to prepare for the visit. We were required to submit information which covered every aspect of the trust. We would like to thank everyone who contributed to this. It was a considerable piece of work for people who are already busy. However it was essential because the inspectors needed to have this information so they could get to know the organisation they were visiting.” The CQC visits looks at five domains, asking is the organisation safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. Core services had to look at all five domains and how they related to their own areas and assess themselves. This was a huge amount of work and was really well received by the CQC inspectors.
Drop-ins
Julie added: “Debbie and I held a large number of drop-in sessions leading up to the visit. We also gave colleagues the opportunity to see and comment on the presentation which chief executive Alan Foster, deputy chief executive Julie Gillon, director of nursing, patient safety and quality Cath Siddle and medical director David Emerton would be giving to the inspectors at the start of the visit. The drop-in sessions were really well attended and we listened to colleagues’ comments and amended the presentation as we went along so incorporate the feedback.“ Director of nursing, patient safety and quality Cath Siddle said: “I would like to pay tribute to everyone who made a contribution to the preparation for the visit and the visit itself. It was a true team effort. From the reception the inspectors received when they arrived, to the catering arrangements, the in-depth interviews and the shadowing of colleagues I felt extremely proud of how we responded. “We made it clear in all our communication and our drop-in meetings the visit was the opportunity to share with the inspectors the amazing work we’re doing for patients and colleagues certainly had this attitude when they met the inspectors.”
Areas of good practice
Billingham district nurses 18 Anthem | Issue 39
The inspectors commented on a number of areas of good practice with one inspector saying the breast screening unit was one of the best units he had seen. Some of the other areas highlighted were: • the number of people trained in children’s safeguarding • the visibility of safeguarding across the trust • the Hartlepool district nursing team, who had been shortlisted for two awards • outpatients was led by experienced and dedicated staff • the intensive care level one area on ward 25
k you!
Critical care team
visit in July. Over a four day period more than 60 representative groups and the voluntary sector, visited a me of the trust’s governors, interviewed members of the ith staff and the public. • the Datix system and how it was used by ward managers • the pharmacy team and how they monitor patients receiving lorazepam (an antianxiety and sedative) in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance • end of life care • the simulation suite • the patient safety team and the way they feed back to colleagues Cath Siddle • in accident and emergency the best nurse-led cardiac arrest they had ever witnessed with excellent team work • the friendliness of staff in A and E who, said the inspectors, were very approachable and clearly enjoyed working in the department • excellent team work and communications with huddles (where the team gathers quickly a number of times a day to update each other) in A and E • intensive care with inspectors wishing to share what they’d seen Colleagues were asked after the visit what they thought went well and what could have been improved. Julie, Debbie and Steph collected a considerable amount of comments. Most people found the visit intense and, not surprisingly sometimes disruptive, but found the inspectors professional and friendly. Colleagues liked: • having a team approach to preparing for the visit I would like • having dedicated time to complete their to pay tribute self-assessment • the drop-in sessions to everyone • the opportunity to influence what who made a was presented to the inspectors on the first day contribution. • the bulletins and countdown to the visit • understanding what was expected and feeling well prepared for the visit • having support from the corporate directorates with information for things like information for notice boards • the team spirit and people being brought together • having opportunities to de-brief and feed back any concerns or issues • having inspectors who understood the service they were inspecting Cath added: “From my point of view, whatever the outcome, we were well prepared, it was a very positive experience and we gave a very good account of ourselves. The visit gave us the opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to patients which is what’s important.” We expect to hear how we’ve been rated in late autumn.
A&E huddle A&E team
Ward 4
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Corridors get a much needed facelift Two long corridors and a link corridor at the University Hospital of North Tees have had a much needed refurbishment.
Who’s entitled to free NHS care? If you’re unfortunate enough to be injured or ill on holiday you’d expect to either pay for treatment or be covered by a European agreement. But, despite the charging arrangements being in place since 1982, people coming to this country have not always been charged for their care, in fact nearly £390m is spent each year by the NHS which should have been charged to patients. Two years ago NHS trusts recovered around £73m, less than 20 per cent of what could have been recovered. In a push to improve, the Department of Health is directing trusts across the country to play their part in recovering costs which can then be ploughed back into caring for patients. Overseas visitor officer Michelle Ferguson (pictured) explained: “We may have an idea in our mind about who is and who isn’t entitled to NHS care but it may surprise some people to know that the NHS is a residency based service so having a UK passport for example, does not mean people are entitled to free NHS care. “We ask to see people’s European Health Insurance Card which entitles people to treatment in this country and can be reclaimed from their country of residence. People who are not long term residents in this country (foreign students for example) must pay a health surcharge if they have a visa allowing them to be in the country for more than six months to entitle them to NHS care. “Having a universal health service free at the point of use rightly makes us the envy of the world, but we must make sure the system is fair. We have one of the most generous systems in the world when it comes to health care for visitors to the UK. “Of course if someone needs care in an emergency it will be provided. This is not about refusing care. It’s about making sure the charging regulations are applied fairly to ensure the NHS has the resources it needs to care for patients.” 20 Anthem | Issue 39
The £150,000 job included damp proof repair, vinyl floor replacement, replacing handrails and repainting the walls. Work started after the MRI scanner was installed. It was lowered into a courtyard then new double glazed windows were fitted to replace the wooden framed single glazed windows which had been in the hospital since it was built. Design and development manager Steve Taylor (pictured), who oversaw the 11 week programme, said: “The podium corridors were last refurbished in 1999 and were showing their age. “The damp proof course under the concrete screed had broken down in the corridors and needed to be replaced. This involved lifting the existing flooring and grinding off around 8mm of the concrete screed and then laying a replacement damp proof membrane before laying new vinyl.
“We took the opportunity to redecorate the corridor and fit new handrails while the areas were closed to improve the experience for the patients, visitors and staff. “This was a very complicated project to carryout given the very busy nature of the corridors, which we found, even at night, are never quiet! Alternative diversion routes were required throughout the project and all the work was done at night to minimise disruption to patients and staff alike. “A big thank you to project supervisor Alan Pearson who kept the various diversion routes in place (including a temporary external corridor between two patient areas) and ensured the hospital was not affected while this complex work was carried out.”
Before and after - clean, clear and clutter-free
Mark Saunders safe return home from Sierra Leone Colleagues held a welcome home lunch for surgical assistant practitioner Mark Saunders to celebrate his safe return home from Sierra Leone. Mark worked for six months in the International Security and Advisory Team (ISAT), as part of a rapid response team. Welcome back Mark!
The continuing adventures of Bear Bear – treasured bear of ICT support co-ordinator Mark Smith’s daughter Grace – has been on his travels again. Grace sends Bear to work with her dad once a month and always likes to see where he’s been and who he’s met on his travels.
d A an ut at ore o g in Help ackie Mo J with
tion
ep E rec
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trust ba iating the
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Bear still likes to relax when he can Bear showing ICT analyst John Doherty how to manage network infrastructure
int of
ingle po
It’s a long way up these stairs!
Posing with the Ha rtlepool Mail team of the year
Stopping for a
healthy snack
s lls in the ome ca Taking s ll centre ca access
Governor Wendy Gill (left) and assistant director of nursing and professional standards Debbie Blackwood in the neonatal unit
elt Seatb
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Using the recycling facilities
Anthem | Autumn 2015 21
Developing more leaders Another group of staff have completed the trust’s leadership and management development programme. The programme, run with Teesside University, teaches staff a range of skills over a number of study days before finally taking part in a poster presentation to the board of directors and senior managers. Congratulations to everyone who took part.
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Palliative care study day looks at all aspects of care
End of life care high on the agenda Consultant in palliative care medicine Jane Bentley (pictured below) talks about phasing out of the Liverpool Care Pathway and the care of the dying patient. “The Liverpool Care Pathway (LCP) was developed by the Marie Curie Institute in Liverpool in the late 1990s. It was recognised that excellent care was given to dying patients in hospices and the LCP was developed to enable excellent care to be given to all dying patients whether in hospital, nursing or residential home or in their own home.. “An independent review of the LCP chaired by Baroness Julia Neuberger was published in July 2013. It concluded that, used properly, the LCP provides a framework for good care, but it was not always used appropriately. It recommended phasing out the LCP and it has not been used since July 2014. “A national group was set up called the Leadership Alliance for the Care of the Dying Patient (LACDP). It produced five outcomes to guide care for people in the last days of life but national documentation has not been produced. “A group was set up in the trust in July 2014 to look at the care of the dying patient. This group had wide representation including hospice, GPs and carer representation. The group agreed that some form of supporting documentation and guidance was needed to help support and guide the care of patients in the last days of life. A new document was produced which was sent out to consultation to all those involved in the care of dying patients as well as to patient Jane Bentley representative
group Health Watch and the trust’s own Healthcare User Group. “The new local Caring for the Dying Patient document was launched in July 2014. It fulfilled all of the recommendations of the Neuberger report and the outcomes produced by the LACDP. Specific attention was made to the documentation of the named senior clinician overseeing the patient’s care. It contained a medical and nursing assessment which allowed free text to ensure documentation of discussions and explanations to patients and their families. This was to enable care to be individualised and to recognise any specific needs or concerns of the individual or their family. It also paid particular attention to fluids and nutrition at the end of life, ensuring that discussions It is committed are had with the patient and to ensuring the family members. best possible “The work of the care to dying local group fed into regional work. patients. The medical section of the regional document is based on our local document with some helpful refinements. The nursing section has been developed further. The new regional document has just been launched in North Tees and Hartlepool. This means that health care professionals moving throughout the region will be using the same document. It will also further improve patient care as the same document will be recognised wherever they are cared for within the region. “The local group will continue to meet regularly to ensure ongoing evaluation and audit of the new document. It will also ensure continuing education of health care professionals. It is committed to ensuring the best possible care to dying patients.”
In June a palliative care study day took place in Hartlepool. Funded by Macmillan Cancer Support the day was designed to bring together health professionals from within the trust, as well as other professionals such as nursing home staff, to look at all aspects of caring for people with lifelimiting conditions. In a very thought-provoking session the delegates looked at pain and how physical, social, emotional and spiritual pain manifests itself in total pain, and is a unique experience for each individual. Hospital chaplain Lorraine Millar (pictured, top) also held a spirituality workshop where wider issues of spirituality for those who had been diagnosed with a life limiting illness were explored. There were also presentations on looking after patients with nausea or vomiting, the difference between general palliative care and specialist palliative care and an end of life care workshop. Senior clinical matron Caroline Fitzsimons (pictured left), who chaired the event, said: “We are very grateful to Macmillan for giving us the support and resources to bring people together to discuss these very important issues. Gathering people together in this way encourages discussion and deepens understanding which ultimately benefits the people under our care.”
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Anthem | Autumn 2015 23
Healthcare assistants’ vital role recognised A nationally recognised workbook for healthcare assistants and health support workers is being rolled out. The Care Certificate is a national initiative developed jointly by Skills for Care, Health Education England and Skills for Health. It follows a national independent government report into healthcare assistants and support workers in the NHS, known as the Cavendish Review. The review concluded the public image of these staff was out-dated and the levels of responsibility needed for this role has increased. Staff in the stroke unit at the University Hospital of North Tees are the first to take part, before it is reviewed and then rolled out Our healthcare across the trust. assistants play Director of a vital role in nursing, patient safety and quality caring for our Cath Siddle said: patients “Our healthcare assistants play a vital role in caring for our patients. The Care Certificate helps to recognise this and applies clear, consistent national standards for the NHS. “Although designed for use with new
Ward 41 matron Adele Gomersall, staff nurse Michelle Hedley and healthcare assistantsTina Beddard and Lynn Gordon receive the Care Certificate workbook from director of nursing, patient safety and quality Cath Siddle and nursing resource manager Esther English
health care workers, the trust has decided that all health care and support workers will follow it. “The Care Certificate gives everyone the confidence that these staff have the same knowledge and behaviours to provide compassionate, safe and high quality care and support and will give these staff a good basis from which they can develop their knowledge and skills.”
Health care assistants will be mentored during the 12 week programme by a registered nurse and supported by the trust’s education and organisational development staff. Once the pilot is complete it will be reviewed and then rolled out across all wards and departments with healthcare assistants and healthcare support workers.
Passed with flying colours A group of foundation doctors have passed with flying colours following an annual review of their progress. The foundation programme team recently carried out a week long annual review of competence progression (ARCP) process for 87 foundation doctors in the trust.
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A formal ARCP panel is carried out every year by the trust’s foundation team, including members of the Northern Foundation School senior team, consultants from the trust, medical staff from other health trusts, non-clinical staff and the foundation programme team. During
the review, the group consider whether the foundation doctors have met the requirements for satisfactory completion of F1 or F2 years. Foundation programme tutor and chair of the panel at the trust, Dolon Basu said: “We are delighted that following the review we have had a 100% pass rate. “The ARCP process aims to protect patients and regulates the progression of the doctor in training. It gives assurance that the appropriate competencies and experience has being gained. “This process was highly rated by both internal and external panel members, through formal feedback this year’’. “On behalf of the foundation programme team I would like to thank all panel members for their contribution and all of the foundation programme educational and clinical supervisors for the support to the trainees. “We strive for our doctors in training to be safe and maintain lifelong learning to achieve excellent standards of practice.”
Time lapse technology set to improve fertility service The assisted reproduction team at the University Hospital of Hartlepool is using a leading edge photography technique to help couples with fertility problems. The Primo Vision time lapse photography system helps fertility experts select the best embryos for implantation and increase the chance of pregnancy. A woman’s eggs are collected and mixed
with sperm then placed in a special incubator with a time lapse camera inside it. The developing embryos can remain undisturbed and monitored remotely on a computer. Because embryologists (the specialists who support fertility doctors) can see the embryos developing they can watch their development. During the very early stages when the cells are dividing, abnormalities occur in around 20 per cent
of the embryos. The new system makes it much easier to spot these abnormalities. Clinical lead for assisted reproduction Hany Mostafa said: “We’re delighted to have this facility because it is helping us select the very best embryos for implantation. This is excellent for our patients because it means there’s a greater likelihood the embryo will go on to a successful pregnancy.”
New fertility research presented at European conference A consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist has presented the results of new fertility research at a prestigious European conference. Hany Mostafa, who is the clinical lead for the assisted reproduction unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool presented at The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) meeting in Lisbon for the first time. The annual fertility meeting in Europe attracts thousands of experts from around the world. The results of a study were presented to compare patients with endometriosis related infertility in in‐vitro-fertilisation IVF with patients with tubal factor infertility – caused by a blockage or damage to the fallopian tubes. He said: “Endometriosis is a common condition in which small pieces of the womb lining are found outside the womb. In the ovaries, cysts known as endometriomas or “chocolate cysts” may form. Implants of endometriosis may grow on the peritoneum (the lining of the abdomen and pelvis), sometimes causing scarring that may involve the ovaries and block the tubes. The cause of endometriosis is not known, although it often runs in families. Endometriosis can be found in up to 50% of infertile women. Infertility patients with moderate and severe endometriosis have monthly pregnancy rates of less than 2%. IVF is the most effective treatment for moderate or severe endometriosis, particularly if surgery fails to restore fertility however; data on the impact of endometriosis on the results of IVF treatment are controversial. “We carried out a review of the women undergoing IVF treatment between January 2012 to December 2013, in the assisted reproductive unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool. “We identified 41 patients with
endometriosis compared to 321 patients with tubal factor infertility matched for age and duration of infertility. “There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the clinical pregnancy rate per cycle. Endometriosis patients had a comparable percentage of 83% of good quality embryos. “The findings from our study suggest that the success of women with endometriosis is fairly well in IVF in terms of embryo quality, implantation, and multiple pregnancy rates as compared to women with tubal factor infertility. “Clinical pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy rates in endometriosis patients are lower but not statistically different from patients with tubal factor infertility. “Infertility affects as many as one in seven couples in the UK. There is new research and new developments in fertility all the time. Any research like this can only further improve the service we can provide to couples who
We are are desperate to become a family. continuing to The findings are invest in the very reassuring for patients with latest high-tech endometriosis. equipment “It was a pleasure and a privilege to be representing the trust, alongside so many experts in fertility. “We are continuing to invest in the latest high-tech equipment at the unit in Hartlepool, so that couples get the best chance of becoming parents. We are using modern equipment and the latest up to date fertility techniques here and we’re seeing good results. I would urge anyone who has been trying to have a baby but without success to consider getting in touch, so we can help.” To find out more about the trust’s assisted reproduction unit go to www.nth.nhs.uk/ services/assisted-reproduction-unit/
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Anthem | Autumn 2015 25
Diane and Lorraine with health care assistant Kath Hoggarth and the new pocket guides
Yasmin with baby Jacob
Lorraine, Diane, Yasmin, Jacob and delivery suite manager Steph El-Malak with the new posters
New breastfeeding resources introduced A new resource has been developed for staff supporting mothers who choose to breastfeed. Specialist midwives, infant feeding, Diane Hudson and Lorraine Spencer have designed a pocket-sized set of cards to give staff caring for new mums the information and support they need to get breastfeeding established. The development is just one in series of projects Diane and Lorraine have been involved in. Lorraine had an added advantage because her daughter Yasmin was pregnant,
so the work she was doing about getting to know your baby before birth saw Yasmin modelling with her partner Chris for a series of posters in and around the unit. When baby Jacob arrived daughter Yasmin once again offered to be the model for the breastfeeding posters. Lorraine said: “I was really pleased when Yasmin said she’d help. Baby Jacob is adorable and a great model too. building a relationship with your baby starts well before birth and it’s been lovely to be able to
Teaching children how to brush The Tees community dental service oral health team have been talking to children across the area highlighting the importance of brushing regularly. The team have been going to schools and nurseries to set up daily tooth brushing scheme funded by Public Health England. Oral health promotion advisor Nicola Cronin (pictured) visited Cheeky Monkeys nursery in the Avondale Centre in Hartlepool, demonstrating to children how to properly brush their teeth. Nicola said: “We’re supporting The children primary schools really enjoyed and the role nurseries
play area.
across Teesside to incorporate dental health education. “We are always working on different projects to educate children and help reduce levels of tooth decay, but this funding from Public Health England has meant we can do a bit more. “It’s really important that children learn about how to look after their teeth and maintain good oral health and we’ve created a really fun way for them to do that.” Carly Fields, who manages the nursery, said: “Our children have really taken on a positive role of looking after their own teeth, and most are able to do this independently. “The children really enjoyed the role play area that we set up using the oral health team’s equipment. The area enhanced conversation between the children and they started asking the staff lots of questions.”
show this on our posters. It was also good to see Yasmin feeding so responsively and discretely. Mums worry that they may be embarrassed but there’s really no need if you pick the right clothes to wear when you’re feeding. No one can tell if you’re feeding or just holding your baby close.” Diane added: “We’re really pleased with our pocket books. They’re a handy referral for our colleagues when mums need support and they’re proving very popular, practical and helpful.”
World-wide recognition for research doctors Two doctors from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust have gained national and international recognition for their research work. The pair, who are carrying out MD theses through Durham University as part of their medical training, are based in the University Hospital of North Tees endoscopy unit with internationally renowned consultant Matt Rutter. Research fellow Amit Chattree won the support of five international judges in a Dragon’s Den competition for his proposal to extend the regional network which supports health professionals looking after patients with complex polyps (growths in the bowel). He created the country’s first regional network which allows health professionals to discuss, by sharing photographs and videos in a secure network, how best to treat patients with complex bowel growths which can go on to cause cancer or further complications for patients. Amit said: “My idea was to extend the network so everyone in the country could share their expertise in the interests of patients. I was one of five applicants selected to pitch a research proposal to a Dragon’s Den type panel and won the competition with all five judges supporting my proposal.”
Amit received £2,100 from British Society of Gastroenterology who ran the Dragon’s Den 2015 to go towards further research. He added: “It was really rewarding to enter this competition. I moved here from London to work with Professor Rutter who has a worldwide reputation for his research. Having a national network will benefit patients and health professionals alike in providing the highest standards of care for people with bowel disease.” During his time working with Matt Rutter, Amit has also collaborated with leading experts to lead the creation of British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines for the management of large and complex bowel polyps, the first internationally published guidelines in this field. Research fellow Ed Derbyshire was awarded ¤1,000 as a travel prize and ¤10,000 for future research from United European Gastroenterology Week. Ed’s research was a national study into perforations of the bowel. He questioned health professionals from across the country to look at the outcomes for patients whose bowel had been accidentally damaged during a bowel examination. Ed said: “One in 1,800 patients’ bowels are damaged during a bowel examination. Under
the national screening programme these are all reported. This gave me the opportunity to survey centres where this had happened to look at the short and long term effects. “It’s beneficial for this type of It’s beneficial research to be done so we can for this type look at the risk of research to factors, decrease be done. the chance of this happening and give the very best treatment on the rare occasions when it does happen. Completing my research was hard work but hugely rewarding. I have been invited to present my work at the UEG European Gastroenterology conference in Barcelona later this year.” Matt Rutter, who is clinical supervisor for the two doctors, said: “Amit and Ed are carrying on the ground breaking research which has helped to put our unit on the national and international map. “I would like to congratulate them. On a personal level this is excellent as they develop in their own careers but it also helps us to improve care for patients with bowel disease.”
Matt Rutter (centre) with research fellows Amit Chattree (left) and Ed Derbyshire
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Helping you quit this Stoptober The trust’s stop smoking service has been supporting the national stop smoking campaign – Stoptober throughout the month of October. Stoptober is a 28 day initiative, which is backed by Fresh – urging smokers across the country to stop smoking. Stoptober is a great time for smokers to make a positive change in their lives and quit. It’s a time when family, friends and colleagues can all make a start together. People who quit for 28 days are five times more likely to stay smoke free. This is one of the reasons why Stoptober is such a fantastic campaign. The trust’s stop smoking service lead for Stockton and Hartlepool Pat Marshall said: “Getting the right support from a team of stop smoking professionals who understand and can help you can make a huge difference to being able to quit successfully. We also welcome smokers to our stop smoking sessions who want to use their own e-cigs to help them quit.” Stop smoking service lead for Middlesbrough Redcar and Cleveland Joanna Feeney added: “We can give every individual smoker the best possible chance of quitting. “If you start now for Stoptober you will have quit smoking by Christmas. Not only will you be beginning the start of a healthier lifestyle, but you will begin to save hundreds of pounds. “We see thousands of people at our stop smoking sessions and we want to continue to welcome more. Stoptober is a great time for smokers to make a positive change in their lives and quit smoking.” Help to is on offer to smokers at a number of stop smoking sessions and also pharmacies and GP practices across Stockton, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland and Hartlepool. If you want to quit smoking you can find out about your local stop smoking sessions at www.nth.nhs.uk/services/stop-smokingservice/ or phone 01642 383819 during office hours. 28 Anthem | Issue 39
We all contribute to patient care One of the questions in last year’s annual NHS staff survey was about understanding how we all contribute to patient care. This got us thinking, why don’t we go round and ask members of staff the question again so we can show how everyone has a part to play. Posing for pictures colleagues were asked to hold a piece of paper that read “I contribute to patient care by...” and say how they feel they contribute to patient care.
“…being a shoulder to cry on, being there to support people and being a friendly face to staff that are passing by.” Catering assistant retail Sherry Smith
These colleagues told us they contribute to patent care by… “… treating every patient as an individual” Senior healthcare assistant Dawn Hill
“…taking patients to where they need to be and showing people where to go. I am like a human sat nav!” Porter Kevin Kemp
“…offering a listening ear, spiritual support to patients, their families and staff.” Chaplain Philip Bishop
“… being compassionate and reassuring” Sister Simona Mcdonald
“…making sure people get a friendly welcome as I am the first person people see when they come for an appointment.” Clerical officer Jayne Ross
“…being there for patients when they most need our help.” Cardiology day unit staff
“… making sure patients understand about the care we are giving them and putting them at ease.” Spinal nurse practitioner Lisa Wood
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Anthem | Autumn 2015 29
Grateful parents set up charity for hospital’s neonatal unit The parents of twins born three months early have set up a charity to help support other families who have babies in neonatal care at the University Hospital of North Tees. Kirsty Lowther, 26 and husband Shaun 39, from Trimdon, County Durham, have set up Neoangels to help parents with babies who are being cared for on the neonatal unit for long periods of time, after their twins Noah, who weighed 2lb 3oz and Ava 1lb 13oz were born premature. The fund will help parents manage expenses such as travel, car parking and meals at the hospital, while Kirsty also hopes that the charity will build a support network for others who are going through a similar situation. Kirsty, who works as a funeral director for Co-op Funeral Care in Stockton said: “When I found out I was pregnant, I was convinced I was having twins – I always said I would have twins. I made the decision to go to the University Hospital of North Tees. “We were at the hospital at lot more because we were having twins. When I went for my scan the sonographer was lovely. Everything was fine at the 20 week scan. I had a really good experience. “The week before New Year I was feeling really tired, and then on 6 January, I gave birth to Ava and Noah. They were both ventilated as soon as they were born. I saw them four hours later. “It was the scariest thing that me and my husband have ever had to go through. “The maternity unit were out of this world I
30 Anthem | Issue 39
Staff on the neonatal unit
was looked after by two midwives one which was a student - they were amazing. I was very set on having no pain relief and they respected my wishes and supported me and my husband. “The team told us everything. They always made sure we knew what was going on and what would happen next. Every person that we came into contact with was sensitive, professional and caring and I if I was to fall pregnant again I wouldn’t go anywhere else to give birth. “I went home after two days. You never expect to go home without your baby. “Our twins were on the neonatal unit for a total of 76 days for intensive care, high dependency, special care and transitional care. “I was with the twins all day every day. Everyone was absolutely fantastic and really supportive. The staff on the neonatal unit remember you. They weren’t just doctors and nurses. They became our friends. It became like a home from home. They really care and look after you. “I was always told what was happening to Noah and Ava. They would explain everything to make sure I understood and if we didn’t understand they would explain it to us in a way we did. “The neonatal unit were out this world just when we thought our care couldn’t get any better this amazing ward saved our babies, helped us through the hardest time of our lives and supported us. “From the housekeepers to the consultants each and every member of staff on the unit
were outstanding. “Me and my family owe this unit our everything and because of them and what they have done for us we have set up a charity for the unit called Neoangels. “When we were in the hospital we realised that there was very little financial support for parents with babies who are in hospital for a long period of time, to help with unexpected expenses. “I started doing some research to start to set a charity up, which in the future will help other families who have been through what we have. “Not only is it about having financial support, but it is about building up a support network for families to get in touch and be able to provide emotional support for each other. “We’re starting to make plans for the future of the charity, our live music event sold out within a few hours, we’re planning a Christmas Fayre and a summer ball on 2 July next year at Rockcliffe Hall. “I would love for local people to get involved to help support others whose babies are being cared for the hospital’s neonatal unit. It is a lovely feeling, knowing that this charity will be helping to support other families.” Ward matron Debbie Bryan said: “Kirsty and Shaun really are an inspiration. Every donation which is made to the neonatal unit is so valuable. This charity will be a much needed support to parents at what can be a very difficult time.” You can find out more about neoangels and how you can support the charity at www.neoangelscharity.com
Maternity team
Staff take on army challenge Two teams from the trust competed against NHS staff from across the North East in a series military exercise challenges. Teams from physiotherapy and maternity took part in Exercise Medical Challenge in Newcastle. More than 200 staff from 11 health trusts tackled everything from a boat casualty rescue in Nunsmoor Park in Newcastle to helping load a casualty into a helicopter or helping a casualty while under fire. The event is organised every year by the 201
Field Hospital, a reserve medical force where many trust staff volunteer and chief executive Alan Foster is honorary colonel. Bev Marwood, who competed in the physiotherapy team, said: “The team worked fantastically well together all day, scoring highly on all the challenges. “It was a great day - several of the team, myself included, are thinking about joining the reserves after visiting the barracks and getting more of an idea about what they do and the training they have. “We will definitely be entering again next
year with the aim to regain our title.” Midwife Vicki Thorpe, who took part in the maternity team, said: “It was a really fun day which we would all recommend to any staff. “It was a real eye opener to what the army medical training team do.” During the day staff were put to the test on a wide range of scenarios which included a boat casualty rescue on the River Tyne, aid to a casualty under fire, rescuing of casualties and investigation skills and static helicopter emergency medical drills.
Physiotherapy team
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Anthem | Autumn 2015 31
Charity ball raises funds for Butterwick Hospice A charity summer ball held at Hardwick Hall, which was organised by a group of F2 doctors has raised £869.80 for the Butterwick Hospice. Thank you to everyone who showed their support and to those who organised such a fantastic event.
Medical trainees welcomed A model of end A new group of medical trainees were welcomed into the trust. The foundation year one doctors will be given experience in a wide range of settings before in the second year working in different specialties.
Tearful goodbye
of life care
It’s beneficial for this type of research to be done.
A project to look at how end of life services could be designed used a novel approach to help develop its ideas. Hosted by the trust and facilitated by Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, the 3P (production, preparation, process) event invited health professionals and managers from in and outside the Trust to come up with a model of ideal end of life care. Far from a model being a flow chart on paper, the models were three dimensional and full of colour and shape. Associate director for out of hospital care Julie Parkes said: “This type of work takes a lot of people out of their comfort zone but it’s designed to do that. It encourages people to use the creative side of their brain and apply it to problem solving. “We saw parasols used to represent the care under which a patient can shelter, roads to describe their journey with flowers, trees, mountains, rivers and houses along the way to represent aspects of care. “I would like to thank everyone who took part and congratulate them for the way they used both their professional skills and their imagination to look at how they could improve care for people at the end of their lives.”
After 36 years’ continuous service Denise Elgie said goodbye to colleagues as she leaves the trust. Denise, senior back care advisor, said she was really sad to be leaving but was looking forward to spending much more time with her family in her retirement.
Enjoy your retirement Anne Davison, breast services office manager, retired today after over 20 years’ service to breast screening and symptomatic services. We wish her all the best in her retirement. 32 Anthem | Issue 39
School tour of the labs School pupils were given a chance to find out what it’s like to work in the trust’s pathology labs during a special tour. Every year, pathology gives local school pupils studying their GCSEs the chance to have a look around – this year it was the turn of pupils from St Michael’s Academy and Northfield School and Sports College in Billingham. Students learned about what makes up pathology including the different departments such as biochemistry, haematology, cytology, histology, microbiology and mortuary. Student feedback was really positive with many of the pupils saying they wanted to work in
the NHS in the future as a result of the tour. Sharron Pooley, cellular pathology operational manager, said: “Pathology is involved in 70% of all diagnoses made in the NHS so it is surprising how little is known about what we do. This is why we are keen to work with local schools to try and inspire more students to think of a career in science as a genuine career option.” Pat Chambers, chair of St Michael’s parent-teacher association, said: “The pathology team really captured the imagination of all the students during their careers visit. “It opened their eyes to the
sheer diversity of roles and the critical importance of diligence and efficiency to help with prompt diagnosis
of so many different illnesses and conditions. “A huge thank you to the trust and our amazing NHS!”
Represent our members – stand as a governor Once again members are invited to stand as governors in the trust’s forthcoming elections to represent the views of members in their area. Company secretary Barbara Bright said: “Every year we hold governor elections because our governors have terms of office of three years and then are required to be re-elected. “This makes our council of governors work very well because we have continuity with existing governors and the opportunity to elect new governors who bring their ideas and contributions to the table. “Our governors play an important role in the trust. They meet quarterly at formal council of governors’ meetings and have development sessions so they can understand more about aspects of the trust. They also sit on sub-committees where issues are dealt with and discussed in more detail and fed back to the board.”
“When considering whether to stand as a governor, members (people have to be a member of the trust before they can stand as a governor) it’s important to know what the commitment of the role is.” Governors are required to: • attend meetings as required • read papers and prepare adequately for meetings • attend induction and identified training needs • act corporately at all times • work to achieve consensus • declare interests • maintain membership • comply with the Code of Conduct Notice of governor elections will be sent to members in the post and publicised on the trust website from Friday 25 September. If after reading this you would like to stand as a governor, please look out for the notice of elections for details
of how to apply. If you would like further information about the role of a governor, please contact assistant company secretary Sarah Hutt on 01642 383563 or sarah.hutt@nth.nhs.uk.
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Anthem | Autumn 2015 33
I wouldn’t be back at work without the support of my colleagues, says Becky December 2013 was set to be an exciting time in the Taylor household. A new baby on the way and a very excited big brother who was certain the baby his mum Becky (a neonatal nurse at the University Hospital of North Tees) was carrying was a little girl. Baby Anabelle Rose arrived on 7 December as mum Becky, dad Glen and four-year-old Thomas were preparing for Christmas. Dad and Thomas went home to celebrate Anabelle coming home the next day. Dad had a glass of champagne and Thomas had a champagne glass with juice in it However just 17 hours after she was born, Anabelle was unexpectedly diagnosed with a very rare and complex heart defect and was transferred to the paediatric intensive care at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle. Christmas was spent at Anabelle’s bedside and mum Becky moved up to Newcastle to be with her daughter, only seeing her son for a few days each week when he came to visit. Back at home in Middlesbrough, Glen tried to keep My experience day to day life as normal as has made possible for his me more family, including understanding having to go back to work. of the parents Anabelle underwent in the unit. numerous tests and procedures including had two open heart operations. She also had she had a tracheostomy (a hole made through the neck into the widepipe to help with breathing). Always defying the medical team with what mum and dad called her fighting spirit, she was always smiling despite all she was going through. Then ironically, after the third operation which resulted in her having a near perfect heart, it all became too much for her and she lost her battle on 9 April 2014 and died in her mummy and daddy’s arms at only four months and two days old. Becky, who is also step-mum to 12 year old Lily, said: “I know am an experienced nurse but in the Freeman I was a mum. The whole atmosphere and language of a paediatric intensive care was unfamiliar. The staff kept doing me drawings of the heart but I couldn’t get my head around what was happening. In the end a member of staff offered to show me a model of a baby’s heart. It helped. From that time forward I could visualize what was happening when they tried to explain things. “I made sure Anabelle had all her own things 34 Anthem | Issue 39
Team support – Becky with some of her colleagues from the neonatal unit
in hospital. My mum even got me a little set of pink drawers I could put by her cot.” “Despite his age Thomas was never fazed by what he saw; to him the tubes, wires and machines were just part of his little sister. Nurses in paediatric intensive care were excellent at family centred care, always making sure we had family time to make the precious memories of Anabelle we now cherish. “I was convinced we would bring Anabelle home. I had reconciled myself to looking after a baby with complex needs. I wouldn’t listen to anyone who said anything to the contrary.” In August 2014 Becky had an accident which left her with a badly damaged shoulder. She is still being treated for the after effects of nerve damage in her fingers. Becky added: “I felt like just curling up and getting away from the world but, because of Thomas I had to keep going. I think if I hadn’t him I might not have come back to work but I’ve been a neonatal nurse for 10 years and I love it.” In April this year Becky stepped back through the doors of the neonatal unit. She is on a phased return, working some clinical and some non clinical days. It was a difficult journey made bearable by the love and support of her colleagues. “People kept an eye on me even if I just went off to the loo!” said Becky, “Someone would be hovering around to make sure I was ok and not alone and there was always a shoulder to cry on if I needed one. “I can honestly say that I don’t think I would be in the position I am in my return to work if it wasn’t for the love and support given by every member of staff on the unit, from the ward clerks and housekeepers to my matron, the nurses and consultants.
“Each and every one of them has welcomed me back with a smile and been so understanding of the journey I’m on. They have supported me so well which has made my return to work easier than I anticipated and helped reduce my anxiety and fears. With them I’m starting to find my confidence again and smile a lot more. “My first overnight clinical shift was a difficult one. In the early hours I was called to a very serious situation with a newborn baby and I didn’t think I would be able to cope. A little voice told me I could. It was Anabelle; she sits on my shoulder. She was telling me that baby needed me. “My experience has made me more understanding of the parents in the unit. I feel I have more to give and I know what it feels like to be a mum in a very frightening and unfamiliar environment “But I couldn’t be on this journey of recovery without my colleagues. It’s a fantastic team which makes a difference every day to so many babies and their families. I want to share this story so this is recognised.” Baby Anabelle
North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust
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Anthem | Autumn 2015 35
Members’
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Member events
ited to who is interested are inv Members and anyone r at the be vem No 14 Saturday attend the next event on rth Tees. University Hospital of No ce. For t you need to book a pla The events are free, bu ice. off hip ers mb me the t tac more details please con
eds you! Your trust ne
t to increase rs. We wan e b m e m new tative of the us to recruit uly represen tr involved e ar Please help e w can become so that le ip p h o rs e e p b re m o e and our m d that m your family we serve an e encourage using the as p community le u P . m e al it th cal hosp er and sign b m lease e m with their lo ! a as r details P in the trust include you or to t flo e friends to jo rg th 4 fo , t e hip Offic , but don’ rs e rm b fo m d e e st, M u ch Tr e atta to Th undation leted forms ool NHS Fo p tle ar H return comp d an , North Tees S19 8PE. North Wing n on Tees, T to ck to S , ad o s Hardwick R d 16-25 year anyone age be m o ld fr u ar co e h ey unities th ally like to rt ci o e p p sp o e l ld n tia u n @ ership th. We wo of pote s on memb u e a number g av h in ct e w ta n as old by co hs.uk . You can join , applying at www.nth.n 0 involved with 392 ng 01642 38 nhs.uk, calli
Council of governors meeting The governors are the voice of our members who help shape the future of the trust. Members and the general public are welcome to observe the meetings which are held four times a year. The next meeting is on Thursday 4 February 2016.
Board of directors meetings The board of directors meet around six times a year. Members of the public and staff are welcome to observe the meetings. This is your chance to see how the board operates and gain first hand kno wledge on the trust’s latest developments. Spaces to attend the me etings are limited so please contact the priv ate office on 01642 383563 in advance to sec ure your place. The next board of directo rs meeting is on 29 October at 1pm in the boardroom at the University Hospital of Ha rtlepool.
Membership cards The membership card entitles members to staff rates at any of the Wilbers Coffee Shop outlets at the Universit y Hospital of North Tee s or Hartlepool, as well as acc ess to NHS discounts. To obtain your members hip card, please contac t the membership office on 01642 383920 or membership@nth.nhs.u k.
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ts of and represent the interes Stand to be a governor s on tail de of the election and your community. Notice s.uk/ nh th. w.n ww published at how to apply have been / s-2015 news/governor-election
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36 Anthem | Issue 39
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Anthem | Autumn 2015 37
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