THE

Issue Number 61 June 2012

Our Vision To provide every patient with the care Pwe want for those ulse we love the most PHOTO BY STONEMAN AND METCALF PHOTOGRAPHERS LTD

Children’s champion Dr Kathy Wilkinson’s pride in the Jenny Lind, pp8 & 9

Dying matters Things to talk about before we die, pp6 & 7

Viewpoint Investigating links between diet and gut disease, p11

My blindside challenge A head and neck cancer The history makers patient tells his story, p10 Breaking new ground at Cromer Hospital, p12 INFO NEWS ROUND

NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL STAFF AWARDS 2012 Colney Lane, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7UY NOMINATIONS ARE invited for our Staff Awards 2012 and you Tel: 01603 286286 www.nnuh.nhs.uk have until 30 June to put forward the names of individuals or teams Restaurant West Atrium, Level 1, open who you think deserve to win. There are ten categories ranging from 7am-8pm Team of the Year to Unsung Hero, including a new award this year Serco cafe bars Out-patients West and East; for Outstanding Research. There will also be a chance for patients to Cafe Pure (inside WH Smith, Plaza West) open nominate staff who “go the extra mile” to provide exceptional patient Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, weekends 10-4pm care. For more information go to www.nnuh.uk Deli food2go Plaza (East), open Mon-Fri, 7am -1am, weekends 11am-1am WRVS shop East Atrium: open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm and weekends 10am-6pm WH Smith,Plaza (West) - see Cafe Pure, above The Stock Shop (ladies’ fashions) open Nick’s new national role Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm and Saturdays 12-5pm dermatologist leads on dermatology teaching for Serco helpdesk (for housekeeping, porters, CONSULTANT Dr Nick Levell has been the Norwich Medical School and catering and maintenance): ext. 3333 IT helpdesk Log a call using the computer icon elected President of the edits the national newsletter for on the intranet home page British Society for Medical dermatologists. Security ext. 5156 or 5656 Dermatology, an organisation As Honorary Secretary of Lost property 01603 287468 or ext 3468 formed in 2008 to encourage the British Association of Reception desks education and research Dermatologists, he has helped East Atrium Level 1: ext. 5457 or 5458 into difficult dermatology to write national guidelines and West Atrium Level 1: ext. 5462 or 5463 problems involving general is currently working with the Out-patients East Level 2: ext. 5474 or 5475 medicine. Department of Health on national Out-patients West Level 2: ext. 5472 Nick has led numerous research studies and commissioning and also the integrated Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) clinical trials in Norwich, the latest involving management of long term conditions. For confi dential help and advice about our service the use of injected biologics to treat those Keen on history, education and art, Nick to patients call 01603 289036 / 289045 Travel Offi ce for car parking permits, ID badges, with disabling psoriasis. Patients for whom has two children and enjoys keeping fit and keys to cycle sheds, use of pool cars and Trust other treatments have failed and who would travelling. bicycle, public transport information: ext. 3666 normally require hospital admission are now Bank Cash dispenser in East Atrium able to have treatment as an out-patient and Level 2 and in WH Smith, Plaza (West) lead normal lives at home. GISSING WARD Sister Chapel Open to all. For details of services or to Born in Yorkshire, he trained in Kelly Davis travelled to contact the Chaplains, call ext. 3470 Manchester, Newcastle and London before Eilat in Israel to take part Sir Thomas Browne Library open Mon-Thurs: becoming a consultant in Norwich 17 years in the European Triathlon 8.30am-5.30pm, Fri: 8.30am-5pm ago. Since then he has encouraged many Championships on CROMER HOSPITAL innovations including nurse-led services 21 April. Kelly took on Mill Road, Cromer NR27 0BQ and image analysis for dermatology. He some of Europe’s best Tel: 01263 513571 athletes in her age group (30 - 34), coming sixth OTHER TRUST DEPARTMENTS in the sprint event, • Cotman Centre, Norwich Research Park: ANY OLD VIDEO CASSETTES? which involved a 750m Cellular Pathology, Radiology Academy ARE YOU sitting on a stack of old VHS swim, a 20km bike ride • Innovation Centre, Norwich Research Park: cassettes that you just wish were on DVD? and a 5km run. “It has been hard fitting Microbiology If so our Medical Illustration team may the training in around working full time as • Francis Centre, Bowthorpe Industrial Estate, be able to help. They offer a high quality Ward Sister but I have thoroughly enjoyed the Norwich NR5 9JA, ext. 4652: Health Records and affordable service to challenge,” she commented • Norwich Community Hospital, Bowthorpe transfer your old VHS Road, Norwich NR2 3TU: Breast Screening, tapes to disc, with chapter Pain Management points for you to easily skip ALICE IN WONDERLAND • 20 Rouen Road, Norwich, NR1 1QQ, ahead and find the section will be the theme of a Summer Fayre ext. 6954: HR, IT services, recruitment, payroll, you are looking for. By using at NNUH on Thursday 12 July from training, fi nance, health and wellbeing, DVD discs you will avoid the problems of old 4pm-8pm, with all proceeds going out-patient appointments, cancer management, videotape deteriorating and your precious to NNUH charity funds. Attractions procurement, clinical effectiveness, recordings will be preserved for generations will include two outdoor theatre commissioning team and information services. to come. performances, at 4:30 and 6:30pm, • The Norwich Contraception and Sexual An editing service is also available. Call along with children’s games, craft Health Clinic, Grove Road, Norwich NR1 3RH. ext 3245/4097 for prices and information or stalls, cakes and refreshments. Entry Tel: 01603 287345 email [email protected] and parking will be free.

2 NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 WELCOME

Changes for ‘The Pulse’ LESSONS FROM team at The Pulse has The Pulse is partly funded by a hospital THE EDITORIAL OUR PATIENTS received some very helpful feedback over the charitable fund, and cost savings from these really pleased to see I WAS past few months. One issue that has stood changes will allow the hospital to benefit in the results of the national out in particular is the question of how we’re other ways. 2011 in-patient survey and responding to the need to make savings and We have received requests for more learn that NNUH was among work with smaller budgets. information on certain health conditions, the top rated hospitals for So we are looking at this, and at the same including glaucoma and arthritis so we patient satisfaction on a time exploring how we can improve the will include features on these conditions in number of issues, including magazine. Our plan is that The Pulse will future issues. confidence and trust in our doctors and become a quarterly publication with Spring, • Please send your contributions, comments nurses and the overall quality of patient care. Summer, Autumn and Winter editions, in and suggestions to communications@nnuh. We greatly value this feedback and we are hardcopy and online. nhs.uk always keen to make improvements. Recently we embarked on a much more detailed in-patient survey to monitor levels of patient satisfaction and identify areas Winning where we are falling short of our vision “to provide every patient with the care we want for those we love the most”. day for Volunteers are using electronic tablets to interview patients and seek feedback on a friends range of issues, from physical comfort and environmental cleanliness to noise at night, THE FIRST “adventure staffing levels, kindness and dignity . relay” from Cromer Hospital The survey is being carried out on to NNUH took place in discharge for ten per cent of our patients April and was declared a to give a regular “snapshot” of the patient great success after more than experience on each ward and provide £2,000 was raised for the comparisons, not just between wards but Friends of NNUH. Scenes from the Friends’ also between hospitals, since all acute The course was divided adventure relay day in April, NHS hospitals in the midlands and east into three runs and two cycle from above: the Barons of England are now measuring their routes, with 15 teams and from Pharmacy, who came performance in this way. three individuals completing second; solo winner Simon Each question allows for a more detailed the 33-mile distance between Brierley receives his trophy; response – if patients are concerned about, our two hospital sites. David Prior makes it to the say, noise at night, they have the opportunity Triathlon coach Simon finish with the aid of two to select options to describe the type of Brierley was the first solo walking sticks noise so we can take steps to minimise the competitor to complete the problem. course. He took part as a Interestingly some of the recent negative thank-you to the hospital for the care given an annual fixture. NNUH Fundraising comments concern staffing levels, yet the to his four-year-old son, Joel, who has a manager Beth Coley, commented: “We are reality is that we employ 76 more nurses now rare condition delighted with the support we received. than we did during the same period last year. called Beckwith The work of the Friends has a great impact We are not just looking for negative Wiedemann on improving the care we can give to our feedback – we are also keen to share positive Syndrome. patients.” experiences so we can encourage good One of the practice between wards. fastest teams Judging by the letters I receive, it is often was the Barons GORDON’S ROLL CALL small things that make the biggest difference from Pharmacy, Gordon Farquar, who recently retired as for patients – a little kindness goes a long who came a renal technician at NNUH, has been way to make a patient’s hospital stay more second overall. placed on the Chief Scientific Officer’s Roll enjoyable. In my experience it can go a Trust Chairman David Prior was determined of Honour for his outstanding, lifetime long way to make our working lives more to walk the final 4km after shattering his contribution to Healthcare Science. rewarding, too. pelvis in a gardening accident last year. He was presented with the award by ANNA DUGDALE Simon Edwards, of Active Outdoor Sport, Health Secretary Andrew Lansley at Chief Executive, Norfolk and Norwich who organised the event, said the race was a Westminster after being nominated by the University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust great success and he hoped it would become Association of Renal Technicians.

NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 3 NEWS ROUND

PRIZE PRESENTATION Write to Communications, NNUH, 7 This year’s William Fellowes prize for the Colney Lane, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 best presentation by a junior doctor at LETTERS 7UY communications @nnuh.nhs.uk NNUH was won by Dr James MacKay for his presentation An Intriguing Case TOGETHER AGAINST so if you would like to join our group [email protected] of Fatigue about CANCER please email . the diagnosis of Alan Stephens, Norwich a rare syndrome We are a small that causes muscle group of cancer ODE TO WEYBOURNE weakness. His patients, carers Early Saturday morning, where do I go? work was chosen and health Getting into mischief, no no no! by a panel of consultants following professionals who To the Weybourne fun club, there I go presentations by each of the four finalists are committed to Once hooked up I feel so good in the Benjamin Gooch lecture Theatre. improving cancer services in Norfolk. There must be something in the blood Together Against Cancer is part of the Lots to drink and loads of food NHS Anglia Network and our feedback It gets me into a party mood New oxygen is increasingly sought by the Network to Such pretty nurses and handsome men ensure that the patient’s voice is heard. You’re in the swing by half past ten clinic launched We meet once a month in Norwich and My pressure rises now and then our members get involved by talking to team at NNUH is But the party hosts come round again! THE RESPIRATORY people with cancer, keeping up to date expanding to ensure that patients have access with cancer care developments, attending Now I’ve got to eighty four to the most appropriate home oxygen therapy meetings, writing reports and contributing I couldn’t ask for anything more for their needs. to committees. When I open the Weybourne door Respiratory nurses have been appointed We are actively seeking new members The Saturday party takes the fl oor! into two new full time respiratory nurse Peter Lob, Norwich posts to help assess patients in clinic and provide follow-up care. It’s hoped the new service will cut down on waiting times for patients and also reduce the risk of harm from Taking the sting out of liver tests inappropriate oxygen prescribing. PHOTO COURTESY OF ARCHANT PHOTO COURTESY Specialist respiratory nurse Sandra Olive, PATIENTS undergoing tests for explained: “Prescribing the correct level of liver damage are benefiting from oxygen therapy is very complex – too much new FibroScan technology, following can be just as harmful as too little for some the remarkable success of a £70,000 patients. We aim to assess patients when they appeal launched only a year ago are stable, to ensure that they receive the by the Norfolk and Norwich Liver treatment that is appropriate for their needs.” Group. Similar to an ultrasound examination, the FibroScan uses The FibroScan is sound waves to test the condition demonstrated for

2,000th volunteer of the liver without the need for a the Norfolk and Norwich liver group THE NORFOLK Diabetes Prevention painful needle biopsy. Study (NDPS) has now screened its 2,000th The Group’s appeal for funds was volunteer for a research project designed to boosted by a contribution from the “Our group has worked ceaselessly to meet test whether lifestyle changes can prevent the Friends of NNUH, taking the total raised to the target. People have been so generous onset of Type 2 diabetes . £77,500. and we’ve had so many contributions The aim is to screen 10,000 volunteers and Marjorie Dingle, secretary of the Norfolk that it would be inappropriate to mention recruit people who may be at risk into an and Norwich Liver Group, commented: individuals, only to say a huge thank you.” intervention programme involving increased activity levels, diet, weight loss and help from SCOPE FOR IMPROVEMENT a personal mentor. Funding from the Big C cancer charity and extra support from the family of a former Programme manager Dr Melanie Dunk patient are helping respiratory patients to benefit from a new endoscopic test for lung cancer. says: “The volunteers we screen are often The Ebus (endobronchial ultrasound) scope uses a micro-camera to help doctors diagnose found to have completely normal blood patients without the need for more invasive surgery. Ann and Brian Broom, whose son sugar levels but for many people this Richard died in January after a long illness, donated funds raised from charity cricket events programme could make a real difference.” to show their appreciation for the care he received at NNUH. The new test is so effective that For more information go to www. the respiratory team are now raising funds to pay for a second Ebus machine. norfolkdiabetespreventionstudy.nhs.uk

4 NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 Living the Olympic dream

ROB SMITH, a specialist practitioner in Manchester and several world cycling orthopaedic theatres, is to be the venue championships. medical manager for the cycling velodrome at “When they offered me the role at the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. the velodrome I thought I had died and He is leading two medical teams who will gone to heaven,” he said. “This will be provide medical assistance to both athletes the pinnacle of my career as I am due and members of the public at the BMX and to retire in September after 32 years in indoor cycling events. orthopaedic theatres.” A keen cyclist himself, Rob has been Rob, who is taking a career break from involved in international cycling tournaments NNUH for three months and relocating for more than 18 years, including the Tour of to London, added: “This is an exciting Britain, the 2002 Commonwealth Games in opportunity and I am very lucky to be able to combine my passion for cycling with my love of healthcare.”

OCCUPATIONAL health nurse completed the five-mile course Meanwhile, three of our staff adviser Karen Carpenter (left) in 46 minutes and 23 seconds. and a hospital volunteer from was among 5,000 runners who She said: “The atmosphere was NNUH are taking leave to attend were first to cross the line at the electric with around 20,000 the Games. . . as volunteers. Olympic stadium after winning spectators cheering as we entered They are Francesca Howe, a competition to take part in the the stadium and the Chariots of deputy dietetic services manager, historic run. Fire music playing. It was quite pharmacist Louise Britton, Karen, who trains with overwhelming and I savoured staff nurse Sophie Marriott and the NNUH running club, every minute.” hospital volunteer John Stubbs.

OUR NEW Military Wives-style hospital choir staged its first ever THE WORKPLACE Health and Wellbeing team at NNUH performance at NNUH in April, (formerly known as The Centre watched by an appreciative audience of for Occupational Health), have staff and visitors. The choir meets every become the first in Norfolk to Monday at 5.15pm in the East Atrium achieve full accreditation from to sing a range of favourite songs, the Facility of Occupational conducted by Hilary Winch, senior Medicine for the quality of occupational health nurse manager, and their service. accompanied on the piano by Helen The team provide Darby, an administrator for the Cancer occupational health guidance Research Network. “People from all to over 100 public and private corners of the hospital responded and I sector organisations ranging must say I was surprised and pleased by from small companies their enthusiasm,” said Hilary. to large industrial and manufacturing businesses. They physiotherapy also provide a full First for wellbeing team referrals for back occupational health service for around 6,000 went well and our clients can be assured that pain and counselling for mental health issues. staff employed in our hospitals. we offer an extremely high-quality service,” We also encourage staff to take advantage of The accreditation programme was says Hilary Winch, senior occupational health free health checks and take part in activities launched in December 2010 to ensure that nurse manager. “It is widely recognised that that improve their wellbeing such as zumba required standards are maintained. The a healthy workforce is a productive one workshops, running club, slimming groups service was rigorously assessed was against a so prevention and health promotion are and even a hospital choir.” (see above) set of seven core quality standards including increasingly important issues – the change in client relationships, professional development our name to Workplace Health and Wellbeing • For more information about the service and and internal procedures. is a reflection of this trend. about events and activities for staff go to “We are delighted that our assessment “For our hospital staff we offer fast-track www.workplacehealthandwellbeing.co.uk

NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 5 ????? FOCUS ON END-OF-LIFE CARE

Given the choice of dying in a hospital bed or at home, which would you choose? This is one of the questions we are being urged to address as part of Dying Matters, a national campaign designed to get us all talking about the subject of death and dying

campaign coincides patients to achieve their wishes of dying at THE DYING MATTERS with a new initiative to give terminally ill home or in a less clinical environment than patients at NNUH a choice of where they an acute hospital ward. would like to die. “The Marie Curie Delivering In a move supported by Marie Curie Choice programme highlights that Cancer Care, Dee Chapman and Beccy the majority of people with a terminal Summerfield have been appointed discharge illness wish to die at home. However, liaison nurses with the aim of helping currently only one in five do so,” says Dee who, like Beccy, was previously a staff nurse on Mulbarton Ward. FACTS AND FIGURES “We are not just here for DYING According to research by the cancer patients but anyone to prepare for a birth but very few plan for National End of Life Care in their last days or weeks of life end-of-life care, even though death is just Programme who has palliative or end-of-life as inevitable. Why is this? We only get one • 70% of people surveyed needs, with a diagnosis including chance to get end-of-life care right.” had not discussed their neurological conditions, heart, renal Emma is one of a specialist team who end-of-life wishes with and respiratory failure or dementia. support patients with complex palliative their partner “The aim is to help them achieve care needs, providing advice on symptom • 70% would prefer to their preferred place of care in their management and psychological support as die at home, yet 50% of people last days and weeks of life and, where well as an education programme for staff. currently die in hospital possible, to provide She is also a • 20% of hospital beds are occupied a smooth transition facilitator for by people who are dying. between hospital and end-of-life care community care. for the East of “We are networking England. FIVE QUESTIONS TO ASK with various “It’s BEFORE YOU DIE… community services important for • Where would you like to die? including district people to make • Would you want to be resuscitated nurses, as well as their wishes • What sort of funeral would you like? family members, to known before • Would you like to save other lives speed up the process it’s too late,” Palliative care specialist nurses Emma Harris and through organ donation? of assessment and she says. “But Claire Fullalove and (above right) discharge liaison • Have you made a will? ensure their needs we also want to can be adequately met nurses Dee Chapman and Beccy Summerfield raise awareness WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW before it’s too late. among health “It may not always be practical or professionals so they feel confident about • You may want to complete an desirable for patients to spend their final looking after patients and their families at Advance Care Plan, a document that days at home but we will do our best to this difficult time. enables you to explore your thoughts provide the most appropriate setting in the “We promote the Liverpool Care Pathway and wishes, including where you window of opportunity that we have.” (LCP), a system designed to support staff would like to receive your end-of-life in providing hospice-style care for dying care. in patients, whether in an acute hospital setting, • If you are involved in patient care, DURING NATIONAL DYING WEEK May, members of our specialist palliative in care homes or in the community make sure you complete the national care team set up a stall in The Forum, “We also organise an annual conference for e-learning ELCA (end-of-life care for Norwich, to answer questions and encourage health professionals and we are promoting all) modules and one day workshops discussion about end-of-life care. e-learning ELCA (End-of-Life Care for which lead to nationally recognised “People tend to shy away from talking All) modules and one-day workshops to competencies in palliative care. about death but isn’t it time we got rid of encourage anyone who looks after dying • Further information is available at www.dyingmatters.org this taboo?” says palliative care nurse Emma patients to achieve nationally recognised Harris. “Most of us consider it important competencies in palliative care.”

6 NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 FOCUS ON THE MORTUARY TEAM

The NNUH mortuary is one of the busiest in the country. Manager Michelle Colman considers the changes that have taken place since she began working there 23 years ago MATTERS THE THREE key words for our team are Care, Dignity and Respect. We refer to the deceased as patients and we use their names when working with them because investigation are fully documented and Michelle Colman (right) with members of to us they are still patients and their care does returned according to the families’ wishes the mortuary team: “Everyone deals with not stop just because they have died. The training is much more structured now. death differently, there is no right or wrong I have seen many changes in the course At least two years of supervised training are way to grieve.” of my career. When I started as a trainee, required to achieve a certificate in Anatomical the mortuary was a male-dominated world, Pathology Technology, followed by a further is a very busy service so we have to insist on now there are more women than men in my two years’ study for a diploma. an appointment system. Many people are not profession. An essential part of the APT’s role is to aware that there is only one suite and it can The team has evolved over the years. prepare the deceased for viewing so the be difficult for them to understand that they We now have our own porter and office families can say goodbye to their loved ones need to make an appointment. assistant so the APTs (anatomical pathology in a peaceful manner. Different cultures and The role of the APT is demanding, both technologists) can dedicate more of their faiths are taken into account. physically and emotionally. Obesity is on the time to post mortems. Nearly 1,200 of We do our best to be sensitive to the needs increase in our society and the mortuary has these examinations were carried out last of individuals and families. In the case of had to adapt accordingly, with facilities for year to find the cause of death and our babies we offer hand and footprints and larger patients including hydraulic trolleys to role is to prepare the patients and assist the keepsake photographs and we provide very help with lifting. However, there is still a lot pathologists during the procedure. small knitted clothes and tiny cribs so the of physical work involved. We follow strict protocols to ensure parents can hold them if they wish to view. Access to professional counselling is that any tissue and organs removed for We only have one room for viewings and it available if any of the team become affected by the cases we are dealing with, although it’s usually enough to have a chat with each other over a cup of tea. We are a close-knit team A service for the community and we support each other. THE MORTUARY at NNUH is one of NNUH for a post mortem to find the cause Over time attitudes to death have changed. the busiest in the country, providing a wide of death. This is required by the coroner When I started, death was a taboo subject and spectrum of services for the hospital, the when a death is unexpected, whether it if you were bereaved you were expected to coroner and for bereaved families. occurs from natural causes or as a result of keep a stiff upper lip and get on with it. Today In 2011 a total of 3,431 deceased patients a tragic accident or violent crime. it’s much more of an open subject and it’s were taken into the care of the mortuary The vast majority of post mortem acceptable to be seen to grieve. and 1,189 post mortem examinations examinations are undertaken by our I’ve learned that everyone deals with a were carried out by medically trained own hospital pathologists but if crime death differently and there is no right or pathologists. The mortuary also provides is suspected a Home Office pathologist wrong way to grieve. The Dying Matters a dedicated baby service for both NNUH may become involved. Last year 11 post Week in May was a good opportunity to raise and the James Paget University Hospital. mortems were carried out at NNUH by awareness and encourage more people to Deceased patients may be referred to Home Office pathologists. speak about the whole process of death and dying.

NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 7 FOUNDATION TRUST NEWS PROFILE

Food for thought and patient representatives GOVERNORS from NNUH paid a visit to Anglia Crown in Colchester to see for themselves how our patient food is prepared. Led by NNUH Trust chairman David Prior, they toured the kitchens to follow the progress of cook-chill meals that are delivered on refrigerated lorries and reheated in specially designed food trolleys on our hospital wards.

From trauma to eye disease TWO RECENT Medicine for Members events attracted large audiences at NNUH. In April A&E consultant Dr Victor Inyang and orthopaedic surgeon Mr Ben Davis gave an insight into the local trauma network and the complex surgical procedures that are undertaken at NNUH. In May more than 170 visitors crowded into the Gooch Hall to hear about the latest developments and treatment for glaucoma. Ophthalmologists Mr David Broadway and CHILDREN’S C Mr Tom Eke described how new technology KATHY WILKINSON is sporting a pair the population and they should not have is being used to analyse the progress of the of red and white spotted spectacles and to travel long distances to get the right disease and how research being carried brightly patterned shoes to offset her plain standards of care.” out at NNUH could eventually lead to better blue theatre scrubs. But this is no ordinary Kathy is one of seven specialist forms of treatment. fashion statement, there is a serious anaesthetists at NNUH who support purpose behind her distinctive choice of children through the most complex Stop the pressure accessories. surgical procedures. They form a very “Having an anaesthetic can be scary close knit team. “We might be working campaign has A NATIONAL at the best of times so I like to give the with tiny pre-term babies one day and been launched to eliminate all children something more cheerful to older children having minor surgery the avoidable hospital acquired focus on,” she explains. “That’s why the next – they all need to get the highest pressure ulcers by December artwork in the children’s areas is so standard of care. 2012. The first phase involves a training important – it provides a welcome “We don’t spend all our time in programme for staff before we join with distraction for families when operating theatres, we have important other NHS organisations to educate the they come into hospital.” discussions with children and their parents public about how to avoid pressure ulcers. Kathy’s care and before and after their surgery and we are The five-step model for prevention (SSKIN) attention to her young on hand to provide extra pain relief where involves: kin surface examination and support S patients underpins necessary. When critically ill patients • howing patients and carers what to look for S everything she does. need to be transferred to a specialist • eeping patients moving • ncontinence care K I A key member of the paediatric team paediatric intensive care to ensure patients are clean and dry • utrition N at NNUH, she is currently president unit, the team rely heavily and hydration to aid healing. of the APAGBI (The Association of on our skills to stabilise DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Paediatric Anaesthetists of Great Britain patients until the transport Council of Governors: and Ireland), an organisation which has team arrives.” • 5 - 7pm on 26 July grown from just 200 members to over Kathy spent her own • 12 -2.30pm on 27 September 1,000 in the last 12 years with the aim childhood on a farm in • 2 - 4pm on 22 November of promoting high standards through North Yorkshire and • Trust AGM is at the John Innes Centre, education and research. trained at Guy’s in Colney Lane, at 2.30pm on 27 September “I think it’s really important for children London. It was while If you would like to attend, please contact the to receive treatment as close to their own working in a small Membership Office on 01603 287634. homes as possible,” she says. “Children children’s hospital in make up a large and important part of South East London that

8 NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 Our paediatric anaesthetists provide 24-hour support for children undergoing complex surgery at NNUH. Here Dr Kathy Wilkinson explains why she is proud to be part of the world-class team at the Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital ONE OF Kathy Wilkinson’s s proudest achievements is her involvement in a project to rebrand the Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital and create a more child-friendly website for the benefi t of patients, their families and GPs, as well as our own staff and visitors. The website (www.nnuh.nhs.uk/jennylind) is dotted with characters created by the artist Hannah Giffard and brought to life with NNUH web designer Paul Rodgers’ quirky animations. But it was CHAMPION Kathy who initially drove the she was bitten by the paediatric bug. She went on project to give the children’s hospital a stronger identity. to specialise in anaesthesia and intensive care “We wanted to raise the profi le of our children’s hospital for children, working for a year in Australia and show we have a lot to offer in terms of expertise and and then at Great Ormond Street Hospital as a specialist skills,” she explained. “The artwork is important consultant before moving to Norwich in 1995. because it shows we care about children and their “I have a lot of fun with children and I’ve environment.” met some incredibly brave youngsters and The Jenny Lind logo was chosen by members of the their families in my career – they really are public from a number of options designed by Paul Rodgers a pleasure to work with.” using Hannah Giffard’s illustrations. She has been married to Arthur, a “The challenge now is to keep the web pages up-to- primary school teacher, for 32 years and the date and relevant,” says Kathy. “Children’s theatre nurse couple have two children, a daughter aged 18 and a son of 15. Caroline Banson and paediatric surgeon Ashish Minocha “My kids certainly help to keep me grounded,” she says. have kindly offered to be ‘website champions’ and review Seeing the hospital through a child’s eyes has prompted Kathy the content on a regular basis.” to drive new initiatives at NNUH. Some years ago she helped produce a video featuring her daughter, Kim Goes To Hospital; she recently led a project to rebrand the children’s department and create a more child- Child friendly: friendly website (see box, right) the Jenny Lind “Our doctors and surgeons Children’s provide a world-class Hospital paediatric service home page here in Norwich but (above) and it’s not just about the celebrating doctors – a whole range the launch of of health professionals the interactive provide excellent care website (left) for children in our hospitals and I feel proud to be part of the team.”

NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 9 PHOTOS BY STONEMAN AND METCALF PHOTOGRAPHERS LTD It was Francesca, my Macmillan dietitian, dietitian, Macmillan my was Francesca, It chemotherapy and to my relief my I got through and to chemotherapy but I and a bit run down, I was tired it OK. I had think maybe I began to good. felt pretty this thing beaten. nding it fi cult to eat, drink and fi Francesca, who is now a deputy around 160 new patients diagnosed every year. I am the only 160 new patients diagnosed every year. around a nurse specialist on the team, having joined in 1997, but it’s and we all support group very close-knit, multi-professional each other.” manager working alongside other oncology specialist dietitians, for head “The treatment agrees: tough and neck cancer is really both physically and emotionally, with many patients dif extremely Supporting these patients swallow. during and particularly before, is extremely after their treatment and the teamwork rewarding is exceptional.” between the group suffered a major suffered Thankfully it was at this point introduced the moment Tim From began with treatment of a course My and Francesca doctor and just two weeks later I was later weeks and just two doctor form I had a rare oftold at the cancer The news left me base of tongue. my devastated. absolutely met that amazing supportthat we particular at NNUH – in team Tim head and neck a Macmillan Bradnam, Howe, and Francesca specialist nurse, dietitian. a Macmillan we and I just knew Brenda himself, Although I have in safe hands. were a whole from care excellent received range of it is Tim specialists at NNUH, of been at the centre things, who has always holding it all together. Clive Hall Clive Their posts are now entirely now entirely Their posts are small lump neck. on my She insisted I see our “We see patients through their darkest days” see patients through “We TIM BRADNAM both initially funded by Howe were the Macmillan charity to work with head and neck cancer patients, Tim as a specialist nurse and Francesca as a dietitian. but Tim funded by the NNUH Trust the Macmillan to retain is proud up a rugby ball when I ball when up a rugby

“Our patients need a lot of ongoing support as the disease with for head and neck cancer treatment a centre are “We affects so much of their everyday life, from their physical so much of their everyday life, from affects appearance to eating and drinking, talking and even kissing. name. “A few years ago patients would tremble to hear the name. “A few years ago patients would tremble ‘Macmillan nurse’ – now I choose to use the name words and because the charity our role because people appreciate funding is so important,” he says.

As a rugby player, I always knew the I always player, a rugby As who first suspected Brenda, wife, was my It FOCUS ON CANCER CARE CANCER ON FOCUS setback when he was diagnosed with cancer at the throat Sevenage of 62. years on he is featuring in a campaign he recalls Here charity. funds for the Macmillan to raise journey”and the specialist team at “cancer his personal NNUH who him get helped his life back on track Author and rugby fanatic Author 10 TRUST - JUNE 2012 NHS FOUNDATION NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS I FIRST PICKED importance of around team a great having discovered I’ve years the last seven Over you. cancer. the same applies to a something was wrong when she noticed was 11 years old and I was still playing when old and I was still playing was 11 years I During all those years sixties. my I reached in life harder hit you thought nothing could in But in full flight. than a blindside flanker by at the age of I was floored 2004, 62, June I had I was told tougher challenge: an even cancer. My blindside chall blindside My VIEWPOINT

STUDYING LINKS enge BETWEEN DIET AND Clive Hall and his wife Brenda are pictured with Tim Bradnam, Macmillan specialist DIGESTIVE ILLNESS nurse for head and neck cancer, and Francesca Consultant gastroenterologist explains Howe, now deputy manager of the nutrition Dr Andrew Hart and dietetics team at NNUH how research undertaken in Norwich is shedding new light on the causes and development of digestive illness who warned that I might find it hard to eat once the radiotherapy got underway. She SINCE 1993 the University of vitamins, including vitamin C and suggested I had a feeding tube placed directly East Anglia and NNUH have been E, reduced the risk. In oesophageal into my stomach before my treatment began. investigating whether aspects of our cancer nutrients called phytosterols, I was having none of it. I’d always had a diet may cause or prevent illnesses present in certain vegetables, fruits healthy appetite. I love my food. Why on such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative and nuts, may have benefi cial effects. earth would I not eat? I was adamant that I colitis and cancers of the oesophagus The links to foods which may affect knew best. But oh boy, how wrong I was. and pancreas. the development of certain illnesses Francesca refused to give up on me and This research is part of a huge also need to be assessed in patients I finally agreed to have the tube placed. By European study involving 500,000 with these conditions. the third week of radiotherapy I felt as if volunteers whose health has been In Norwich the gastroenterology someone had inserted a length of barbed monitored over nearly 30 years. research is being conducted by several wire through one ear and out the other and In Norfolk we have been following was now pulling it vigorously backwards and the progress of “Our research forwards. 26,000 volunteers There was no way I could swallow a aged between 40 volunteers single mouthful of water, let alone food. I and 74 who all provide us with became entirely reliant on the feeding tube completed detailed a resource that for my nutrition and medication. Francesca food diaries at the monitored my intake at every step and start of the work. does not exist unbelievably I didn’t lose a single pound in The volunteers anywhere else” weight. In fact, I put a bit on! recorded all they It’s been seven years now since my ate and drank for one week, every doctors including myself, Paul Banim, diagnosis and throughout that whole time, two years, and the results were Max Yates, Leo Alexandre, Simon Tim and Francesca have been there for me accurately coded by specially trained Chan and Punya deSilva, who work and Brenda. But the simple fact is, there dietitians. Since then their health has closely with colleagues in the EPIC aren’t enough Macmillan professionals to go been monitored so the diets of those administration centre in Cambridge. around. who went on to be diagnosed with Last year, the gastroenterology team The specialist team for head and neck digestive illness could be compared at NNUH won a staff award for their cancer can have up to 200 patients in their with those who did not, to give research work. care. That’s why the UK so desperately needs information on whether certain foods We are extremely grateful to our more Tims and Francescas. could be involved. 26,000 volunteers, whose food I’m living proof of what the public’s The early results – which need to diaries provide us with a unique generosity can achieve. By making a be confi rmed over time and in other resource that does not exist anywhere donation to Macmillan cancer support, groups – show that particular types of else in the world. you can make sure someone else receives fats called n-6 polyunsaturated fatty The next step is to conduct clinical the Macmillan care that’s right for them – acids, which are present in red meat, trials with patients to discover someone whose cancer journey is perhaps certain margarines and cooking oils, whether certain foods can help the only just beginning. may increase the risk of becoming symptoms of disease. It’s an exciting diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. time to be involved in this research • Clive Hall is donating £1 for every copy Other fats, known as the n-3 group, because potentially we may one sold of his new book C.A.T.S. The Win/Win found predominantly in oily fi sh, may day be able to recommend dietary Relationship System to Macmillan cancer possibly help to prevent both Crohn’s changes to complement drugs support. For more information about the disease and ulcerative colitis. for treating these very common charity visit macmillan.org.uk or call In pancreatic cancer certain conditions. 0808 808 0000

NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 11 NEWS FROM CROMER Making history at Cromer is setting CROMER HOSPITAL the scene for some ground- breaking innovations as our medical and surgical teams take advantage of the hospital’s state-of- the-art facilities and new ways of working. One of the most popular developments is a one-stop cataract clinic, where suitable patients can be diagnosed by a consultant in the morning and have surgery to remove their cataracts in the afternoon. “The patients are very happy First for Cromer, clockwise from above left: with this arrangement because it saves the Gynaecology team on their first day them having to make a return journey in the newly opened procedure room; an to the hospital for treatment,” says Sue examination in the eye casualty clinic; three- Peacock, senior sister in the Allies Eye week-old Milly Steppings has a hearing Unit. “They are warned in advance that test with Leah Barlow, clinical scientist for they may have the option of same-day paediatric audiology, in the new high-tech surgery and most are happy to go ahead testing room as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed.” Upstairs in the Muriel Thoms Procedure Room, patients are increasingly team; aortic aneurysm screening for men benefiting from techniques that are less over 65 and eye casualty clinics to allow local invasive than more traditional forms patients with eye injuries to have follow-up of surgery and do not require a general of sterilisation,” says consultant gynaecologist appointments closer to their own homes. anaesthetic. For instance, gynaecology patients Mr Eddie Morris. “Previously the operation may undergo a hysteroscopy to examine the would involve laparoscopic surgery to tie or inside of the womb using equipment small clamp the fallopian tunes under a general FRIENDS’ FETE Fete in support of enough to pass through the cervix. anaesthetic.” THIS YEAR’S Cromer and District Hospital’s League The technique can be used to take samples In the audiology suite, new high-tech of Friends will be held on Saturday from the womb lining and remove polyps. It facilities have created an opportunity for the 14 July from 1-4pm on the Cromer is now being adapted to perform sterilisation team to expand its service and see more babies Football Club ground, opposite the by blocking the fallopian tubes with tiny metal and children in Cromer. The suite is equipped hospital on Mill Road. implants. with a large soundproof room for the most As well as a raffle there will be many “As far as I know Cromer will the first sensitive hearing tests. stalls including plants, bric a brac, hospital in the region to use this new method Other innovations include “see and treat” tombola, books, cakes and craft items. dermatology clinics led by specialist nurse There will also be a barbeque and a bar consultant Carrie Wingfield; minor hand for refreshments. THE PULSE surgery and therapy with the orthopaedic Editor Sue Jones (ext. 5944) Head of Communications on Holt Ward, after 30 years, Fiona Devine (ext 3200) WELCOME Terri Sturman, ...to gastroenterologist deputy sister on the Jack Pryor Unit, after 23 Communications and Membership Dr William Gelson who recently joined the Trust. years, Manager Janice Bradfi eld (ext. 3634) Patricia Cullum, Susan Jackson and , all with 22 years’ service, and Communications Offi cer Dilys Roberts , after 20 years. Hayley Gerrard (ext. 5821) FAREWELL Nicola Hunt ...to the following long-serving staff who Please send your contributions for have recently left the Trust: the next issue to: Communications@ Stephen , senior healthcare assistant in main nnuh.nhs.uk Bradford theatres, after 36 years, lead • THE PULSE is funded entirely from Sian Watkins, donations and not from NHS funds matron for the medical division, after 32 years, Bridget Higgins, healthcare assistant

12 NEWS FROM THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST - JUNE 2012 NNUH 06/12