Health Matters Vol.5 Issue 1 Spring 2009

Item Type Report

Authors Health Service Executive (HSE)

Publisher Health Service Executive (HSE) Internal Communications

Download date 29/09/2021 04:55:18

Link to Item http://hdl.handle.net/10147/56533

Find this and similar works at - http://www.lenus.ie/hse IIn the Spotlight: Immunising Winner All CCode of Practice Infants the Way

MovingMov towards Integrated Pneumococcal vaccine Paramedic Paul DisDischarge Planning p3 catch up campaign p4 takes Gold p9

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Clinicians in Management

Let’s Talk Breaking New Ground New medication safety booklet aims to protect patients p15 he appointment of Clinical Directorates Many of the contributors during the meeting within the HSE has been described as an spoke very positively about the development and “unprecedented opportunity” by Professor emphasised the importance of this new approach T Joe McKenna, Chair of the Forum of being built on a foundation of trust and co- Postgraduate Training Bodies. dependency between clinicians and managers. Professor McKenna, was speaking at the inaugural The Forum of Postgraduate Training Bodies meeting of the organisation’s newly appointed is working closely with the HSE to support the Clinical Directors. development of the Clinical Directorates nationally. The appointment of Clinical Directors is a critical The appointment of Clinical Directors empowers component of the new consultant contract. clinicians as key designers and leaders of modern Also speaking at the meeting CEO Professor health services at all levels right across the New Mental Brendan Drumm said that having clinicians directly organisation. involved in managing services through Clinical It is expected they will drive and accelerate change Health Service Directorates was breaking new ground. and ensure that the links within and between acute and Speaking to over 40 consultants from around the community care services are strengthened and focused Jisgsaw Programme for country he said health services around the world on simplifying patient journeys and care pathways. Prof Brendan Drumm, CEO with Prof Joe McKenna, Chair young people in Galway p19 have expressed interest in the approach being of Forum of Postgraduate Training Bodies at the inaugural A Group, consisting of Consultants and Managers, adopted by the HSE and we now have the potential meeting of the newly appointed Clinical Directors will play a key leadership role in the development of to create a model that others may also adopt. the Clinical Directorate structure, and will also lead The CEO said that it was well recognised that subject of considerable analysis within many health on embedding the role and functions of the Clinical patient outcomes, safety, clinical effectiveness and services. Director. The meeting was held in the Royal College financial returns are better when there is significant “The appointment of Clinical Directors of Physicians in Dublin in late February. involvement of clinicians in managing and delivering represents a very important milestone for us and our services. The best way to achieve this has been the transformation programme,” Professor Drumm added. See page 2 for additional photos.

General Practice Guide Neo-Natal Unit Ensures Best Care for Babies HSE launch manual for he newly redeveloped Neo-Natal Unit of Temple Street Children’s University Hospital, Dublin, was officially opened in January. The opening Practice Managers p23 T took place after a successful fundraising campaign which raised `1.4m, including `700k from the HSE. The Unit, named ‘St Michael’s B Ward’ cares for neo-natal patients, including premature babies and infants under the age of six months. These babies and infants may have long-term debilitating illnesses, or be in need of surgical and/or medical care. Speaking at the official opening, Denise Fitzgerald, CEO of the Fundraising Office said: “The St Michael’s B Ward cares for some of the most vulnerable children in the hospital and we firmly believe that, thanks to the redevelopment of this facility, we have ensured that they will receive the very best standard of care available.” Happy Hearts The hospital recognises the support of the HSE in bringing the project to fruition. As well as providing most of the funding for the project, the Estates Encouraging healthier Department was also closely involved in the development of the new unit. Each food choices p29 year, almost 125,000 sick children are cared for in Temple Street. The Emergency Pictured at the official opening of the newly re-developed St Michael’s B Neo-Natal unit Department caters for almost 50,000 children annually, making it one of the at Children’s University Hospital Temple Street, Dublin, are Denise Fitzgerald, CEO of the busiest ED facilities in Europe. fundraising office with five-month-old Harry Brady and his Mum Catherine Brady Easy Access – Public Confidence – Staff Pride =ZVai]bViiZgh

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elcome to the Spring issue of Health Matters . In this issue we feature an article on the Code W of Practice for Integrated Discharge Planning launched last December (page 3). This Code is now being implemented across the country and it provides a framework within which efficient care and case management can be delivered. Joint Implementation Groups are being established at local hospital and community level nationwide to ensure (L to R): Dr Rob Landers, Waterford General Hospital, Professor Conor O’Keane, Mater Misericordiae that the Code of Practice becomes a reality. Hospital Hospital, Professor Brendan Drumm, CEO, and Dr Anthony Dempsey, Mid-Western Regional Hospital Dr Liam Plant, Cork University Hospital and Ann and Community Care Managers have been asked to at the inaugural meeting of the newly appointed Clinical Directors Doherty, National Director, National Hospitals Office jointly implement the provisions relating to Discharge Communication so that GPs and other community workers are aware of the needs of each patient once they are discharged. This should lead to better communication, more shared information and less duplication of work. There is also a report on the work of the Health Protection and Surveillance Centre (HPSC) which was established 10 years ago to operate a surveillance of infectious disease throughout the country (page 14). We also feature an article on the launch of the first National Men’s Health Policy (page 18), published with the aim of promoting optimum health and wellbeing for all men in this country. The policy addresses the different challenges that men face in managing their health and is very welcome. You can read about the work of Lily Cummins, a nurse at Beaumont Hospital, who has spent time as a volunteer with Médecins Sans Frontiéres in Zimbabwe in southern Africa (page 22). Lily describes working in a clinic in Gweru (L to R): Professor Tom Keane, Director of National Cancer Control Programme and Dr Risteárd Professor Arnie Hill, Beaumont Hospital and Dr Patricia where people with HIV are provided with free anti-retroviral O Laoide, St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin McCormack, Clinical Director, Connolly Hospital treatment. There are items on reading schemes for service users in Mayo and Cavan/Monaghan (pages 24 & 29) and you can read about the establishment of a national databank to record artworks collected under the’ Per Cent for Art Developing Seeking Volunteers Scheme’ (page 31). There is plenty of other news to keep you up-to-date on Health Matters for Older People developments in various parts of the country. As always, your comments, suggestions and ideas are welcome. he Health Matters editorial team is currently looking at how he National Advocacy Programme is now seeking Contributions can be sent by email to: internalcomms@hse. we can further improve and develop your national staff volunteers from all over the country to undergo training ie. The copy deadline for the next edition is April 30, 2009. T newsletter. T and act as advocates for older people in residential care. We believe that we can make Health Matters a better publication The programme was set up by the HSE to help empower by introducing a more focused approach to the editorial content. older people in residential care to effectively voice their needs Later in the year we are planning to run more in-depth articles and and wishes, access their entitlements and assert their rights. features which will be more analytical in nature. The programme is open to all who would like a volunteer to To facilitate this shift in emphasis we are planning to change speak out on their behalf. the format of Health Matters into a magazine style publication. The programme is seeking people who are interested in Also to assist us in reducing our costs as much as possible we working with older people; who are non-judgemental; flexible Stephen McGrath – Editor will be seeking advertising for the first time. Our aim is to provide and good listeners. The programme will provide full training Head of Internal Communications you with a better quality new look publication and to achieve the for each new volunteer. Email: [email protected] best value for money at the same time. Anne Harris, HSE Consumer Affairs, adds: “We are looking Health Matters will continue to be published each quarter. for mature people with a bit of life experience who will be able Keeping you informed and up-to-date on developments around to give two or three hours a week to act as an advocate for an the country, celebrating your achievements and highlighting our older person in residential care.” The nationwide programme While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information organisation’s purpose and ambitions will remain our goal. will commence on a planned phased basis. St Mary’s in the published in Health Matters , the Health Service Executive accepts no Phoenix Park is the first site where training will begin. responsibility for errors or omissions contained herein. Also note that inclusion of an article in Health Matters does not necessarily imply Readers will not see the result of these planned changes until the endorsement of the article’s content, unless otherwise stated. autumn but in the meantime your comments, suggestions and If you are interested in becoming an advocate, or would like ideas about the development of Health Matters are welcome. more information about the programme, please contact Anne ©2009 Health Service Executive You can send them to: [email protected] Harris. Tel: 045 988 310; Email: [email protected] All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior permission of the publishers.

Health Matters is published by Harmonia Ltd., Lucky Reader Wins Weekend Away Rosemount House, Dundrum Road, Dundrum, Dublin 14. Tel: 01 240 5300, Fax: 01 661 9757 SE staff member Finbarr Marsden, who works in Regional Childcare in Aerbridge House in Co Meath, was the lucky winner ISSN: 1649-7996 of the Health Matters Winter 2008 competition. Finbarr won a weekend family break for two adults and two children at the H Tullamore Court Hotel, Co Offaly. For details about this month’s competition, please go to page 32.

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“It is not the complex nature of the patient condition, or the fact that the patient is old or lives alone, but the way local health systems are configured to treat and care for the patient that results in inappropriate occupancy of an acute bed.” Reducing the average length of a patient’s stay in Irish hospitals to the OECD average could potentially free up 452,000 bed days (Bed Utilisation Review: HSE 2008).

he Code of Practice for Integrated Discharge Planning family, primary care providers, community services and social was launched in December and is now being implemented services) to work together to ensure the best outcome for the T across the HSE. The Code is essential in helping to reduce patient. average length of stay to the OECD average, which could A series of regional workshops on the Code of Practice were potentially free up 452,000 bed days. held during December 2008 and ‘Joint Implementation Groups’ One of the most effective strategies for addressing the issue (JIGs) are now being set up at a local hospital and community of ‘unnecessary hospitalisation’ is to focus on the bottlenecks- level nationwide to ensure that the Code is fully implemented. in both the admission and the discharge process. A mismatch Hospital and Community Care Managers have been asked between variation in demand (admissions) and the variation in to jointly implement the provisions relating to Discharge capacity (resulting from discharges) gives rise to queues and Communication so that GPs and other community workers are waiting lists. aware of the needs of each patient once they are discharged. The greatest variation is typically in the number of discharges This should lead to improved communication, improved sharing carried out. The main cause of this variation has been identified of information and less duplication of work. as the way in which hospitals manage issues such as ward rounds, ward processes, inpatient tests and results. The result Key Deliverables of this is a highly variable and unpredictable length of stay. With the Code of Practice in place, and adhered to, the following Improving Our Services are some of the deliverables expected in terms of improved Pictured at the ‘Improving Our Services’ workshop held in January Implementation patient care: were Catriona Heslin (left) and Anne Ryan (second from right) – from The new Code of Practice provides a framework within which • All patients will have a treatment plan and an expected date of the Organisation Development and Design Team – who developed the efficient care and case management can be delivered, providing discharge/estimated length of stay within 24 hours of arrival into Improving Our Services Change Guide with Sean McGrath, National Director HR, HSE (second from left) and Larry Walsh (far right), clarity around key roles, responsibilities and performance standards. hospital; Director, Health Services National Partnership Forum. The workshop It comprises a suite of national standards, recommended • The expected date of discharge will be proactively managed provided an opportunity for the HSE’s Human Resource team and the practices, forms, toolkits, key metrics and audit tools. The Code against the treatment plan on a daily basis and changes will be Health Services National Partnership Forum Facilitator team to develop emphasises the need for different groups (carers, hospital staff, communicated to the patient; a common understanding and awareness of the guide • Ward rounds will be scheduled in a way that facilitates appropriate and timely clinical review of all patients and efficient National Steering Group Members care processes; • Discharges will take place on Saturdays and Sundays at the Get set for • John O’Brien • Helena Maguire same level as on other days of the week; National Director, Winter Discharge Coordinator/Bed • Standardised, comprehensive and timely Discharge Initiative – Chairperson Manager, Sligo General Communication will be made available to patients, their carers 2009 HSE • William Reddy Hospital and other relevant care providers such as GPs, Pharmacists and Transformation Programme 1 • Frank McClintock Nursing Homes; Community Manager – Project Lead Asst National Director, • Nurses and other members of the multi-disciplinary team will be • Anne Keating Ambulance Service supported in playing a more central role in discharging patients Games Head of Bed Management, • Winifred Ryan from hospital once criteria agreed with medical staff are met. Giving it their all….boys Cork University Hospital Joint Chairperson Healthcare SE staff are getting set playing soccer at the 2008 HSE Community Games • Ken Fitzgibbon Records National Group Next Steps to support and enjoy the finals in Mosney, Co Meath Asst Director of Nursing, • Carmel Taheny The Code of Practice provides the basis upon which escalation H 2009 HSE Community Medicine, Beaumont Hospital General Manager, PCCC, within the whole system can take place to address the problems Games. It’s an exciting year for the 500,000 youngsters who will • Dr Joe Devlin Sligo/Leitrim that can so often manifest themselves in long waits in EDs. A take part in this year’s HSE Community Games as the finals will Consultant Rheumatologist, • Dr David Weakliam series of new policy documents to deal with admission/discharge, be held for the first time in a new state-of-the-art venue at the Waterford Regional Hospital Consultant in Public and escalation, including ‘First Response’, ‘Full Capacity’ and Athlone Institute of Technology in May and August. Speaking • Eddie Byrne Health Medicine ‘Overload’, are underpinned by the Code of Practice. A process of at the recent launch of the 2009 HSE Community Games Director of Nursing, • Dr Mary Boyd engagement is also underway with the ‘A&E Forum’. Health Promotion Development Manager, Maria Lordan Cavan/Monaghan Hospitals Director of Nursing, The main thrust of these policies is to ensure that our Dunphy highlighted the reasons why the HSE is sponsoring • Brendan Murphy, Cork University Hospital processes support discharges that take place as early as possible the HSE Community Games in 2009: General Manager • Dr Ronan Collins each day, including Saturdays and Sundays (i.e., ‘Home by 11’) ‘‘Recent findings from the SLAN survey have shown that Organisational Development Consultant Geriatrician, and that patients awaiting admission, particularly in Emergency 86% of us are over consuming foods high in fat and sugar, this • Dr Garry Courtney AMNCH Departments, can move to Ward areas at the beginning of each combined with one fifth of the population being inactive is Consultant Physician, • Dr Siobhan O’Halloran day, into beds that will be recently vacated. leading to increases in the levels of overweight. We have also St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny Chief Nursing Officer HSE Arrangements to measure and improve performance against seen a decline in community activity, falling from 89% to 55% • Cate Hartigan • Tamasine Grimes Key Performance Indicators contained within the Code are also from 2002 to 2007. This partnership gives both organisations Asst National Director PCCC Research Pharmacist, being advanced. The Code of Practice and associated support an opportunity to work together on all of these aspects of • Claire Broderick AMNCH documents are available on the HSE intranet system, HSENet health. Working with community organisations like the HSE Discharge Coordinator/Bed • John Wickham ( http://hsenet.hse.ie/home/) – simply click on the ‘Discharge Community games supports the work of and broadens the Manager, AMNCH Project Officer, Planning’ button on the lower right hand side of the home page to reach of the HSE in terms of keeping our population healthy.’’ • Jennifer Feighan Organisation Development access the latest materials and information on the new policy. Members of staff who are interested in lending a hand or Project Manager, National • Fiona Quinn, National finding out more about the 2009 HSE Community Games can Hospitals Office Support Team Coordinator Any queries on the Code of Practice for Integrated Discharge check out the website www.communitygames.ie. Planning can be sent via email to: [email protected]

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Walking Back Vaccine Campaign to Fitness in Bray ational and local statistics show that Irish people are not active enough – yet regular exercise is one Targets Parents N of the crucial determinants of good health among a population. In a bid to increase activity among those living in Bray, Co Dublin, the Health Promotion offices developed a he National Immunisation Office are protected against this pilot programme last year which entailed a six-week indoor launched a pneumococcal vaccine serious disease. This vaccine walking programme. This programme was rolled out in T catch up campaign last year to is safe and effective and free January 2009. protect children from pneumococcal of charge from your GP,” said Evidence shows that taking part in moderate intensity disease, which can cause serious illnesses Dr Brenda Corcoran from the exercise, for 30 minutes a day on at least five days of the week, such as meningitis and pneumonia and is National Immunisation Office. has a major impact on the health and wellbeing of individuals. most common in children under two years One of the reasons that walking was chosen for this project of age. A Parent’s View is that it has been described as being, ‘The nearest activity The catch up campaign is aimed at Joan Murphy is a Senior to perfect exercise’ (Professor J Morris and Dr Adrianne the parents of all children born between Health Promotion Officer Hardman 1997). As part of the ‘FitWalk Programme’, some 23 September 2, 2006 and June 30, 2008 and, working in HSE South women from the Bray area took one hour per week out of their depending on their age, children need one (Kilkenny), a busy Mum of busy schedules to come together to walk more effectively in or two doses of pneumococcal vaccine. two young children, Roisin, a bid to gain health benefits. The individuals who started the Pneumococcal vaccine has also been aged two and a half years and walking programmes had different levels of physical ability. added to the routine vaccine schedule for Cillian, aged nine months. One of the main reasons given by participants in the SLAN all babies born after July 1 2008. Health Matters met with report 2007 for not taking regular physical activity was that Since the campaign was launched, Joan to find out why she they didn’t have enough time in their day. Walking, however, many parents have brought their children immunised her children and is accessible and can be done alongside other daily activities to get this vaccine from their GP. However, to get her views as a mum (e.g., walking to work, walking the dog, carrying out chores there are still children in this age group on the new pneumococcal such as shopping). It can also be integrated into busy lives who have not been vaccinated. “If you vaccine catch up campaign. more easily than activities like swimming, cycling or jogging. have a child in this age group, or know “I’ve been a health Walking can also be done with children or older members of of someone who does, make sure they professional for many years, the family and it does not entail any expensive equipment or having started off in nursing, gym membership fees. and for the past nine years I have been vaccinated with the pneumoccocal The FitWalk programme educates participants about the working in health promotion. I know vaccine when he was well so that he benefits of physical activity versus inactivity. The participants in the valuable role that prevention plays would remain in good health. There were Bray gained knowledge in areas that are often taken for granted in achieving health and wellbeing and I no side effects, apart from the expected about walking, such as the theory behind the importance of recognise the value immunisation plays in localised red area but I was told what good posture; the importance of warming up and cooling preventing disease in children. signs to look out for. down and the key components of health related fitness. “Both myself and my husband were “Now that Cillian has received the On completion of the programme, participants became keen for our children to be vaccinated pneumococcal vaccine we are delighted aware of the level of activity they need to achieve for aerobic but we also wanted to make sure that that he is protected from pneumococcal fitness and fat loss. They were also taught how to use step we were making a fully informed choice disease. He is due another dose of counters (which count the number of steps a person takes) to protect them. I talked to my GP and pneumococcal vaccine when he is 12-13 – they were shown how the use of these, and of heart rate Practice Nurse about the catch up months old and I will also be making monitors, can assist them to plan the length and intensity of vaccine, I had heard about it in the sure that he gets this too. As a parent, I their walk in order to attain the necessary health benefits. media, but I wanted to be sure about just want what’s best for my children and Finally, participants were taught about different walking the benefits and side effects of the that’s why I chose immunisation.” styles (i.e., power walking, stride walking and Nordic walking), pneumococcal vaccine. which all contribute to the overall walking experience. “Cillian is a chesty baby and, when I For more information, please see the Joan Murphy (pictured with her son, Cillian) brought him for his routine six months national immunisation website at: Further information on the FitWalk Programmes is available is a Senior Health Promotion Officer working vaccination, he was very well. Having www.immunisation.ie or contact Mary from the senior Physical Activity Health Promotion Officer, in HSE South (Kilkenny) done my research, I decided to get him Dowling at: [email protected] Jim Gorman (Tel: 01 274 4200) or from the Physical Activity Coordinator, Martina O’Hanlon (Mob: 086 606 6805). Fact Sheets Now Available: Planning in the HSE

act Sheets have been developed by The five Fact Sheets are: the Corporate Planning & Control 1. Overview of Planning in the F Processes Directorate (CPCP) to HSE; provide staff with information on the broad 2. Strategic Planning in the HSE; principles of planning within the HSE, and 3. Service/Business Planning; to provide a better understanding of our 4. Performance Monitoring and governance arrangements and the complex Measurement; planning environment within which the HSE 5. Indicative Timeframes operates. These were developed following – Planning in the HSE. a CPCP training needs analysis on service and business planning last year. This analysis The Fact Sheets, which will be revealed the need for information which is updated as required, are available understandable, in plain English and well laid on the HSE Intranet website (go to out. There are five Fact Sheets available – the ‘HSE Central’ on the home page, For further information, please contact first four cover the various components of click on ‘Corporate Planning’ and Marie Carroll, Corporate Planning & our planning framework and the fifth outlines you will find the link to the Fact Control Processes. Tel: 021 492 3549; The FitWalk programme was developed to allow participants to gain indicative timeframes for planning in the HSE. Sheets on this page). Email: [email protected] knowledge about their own specific levels of fitness and about the level of activity they need to achieve in order to gain health benefits

P4 =ZVai]bViiZgh Heg^c\ '%%. =ZVai]bViiZgh Reduced Waiting Times Benefit OPD Patients Pictured (L to R): Louise O’Donnell, Administration; Mary Cass, Staff Nurse OPD; Niamh English, CNM1 OPD; Professor Brendan Drumm, CEO HSE; Dr Niall eople attending the Out-Patient New System in Place “We are very proud of what we have achieved Colwell, Consultant Cardiologist; Mary Rose Maxwell, Department at South Tipperary General Changes introduced at the hospital included: here in South Tipperary for both patients CNMII OPD; Lilian Medley, Business Manager Clinical Directorates; Breda O’Donovan, Staff Nurse OPD P Hospital (STGH) now spend less time • A Central Appointments Area being set up and staff. This was a real team effort that has waiting to see a doctor and less time per visit to coordinate incoming referrals. This has resulted in benefits for patients who attend our after change management techniques were reduced the waiting time for patients receiving OPD department and for the staff who work used in a project supported by the Performance appointments from six weeks to one week; here as well. The assistance of the PMU with The ancillary benefit of the approach is that Management Unit (PMU) of the National • Development of a common waiting list for understanding the rapid improvement approach learning and skills development is kept in-house Hospitals Office. medical patients, resulting in the more efficient greatly helped us to make our plans a reality.” and does not leave when any external agency The project used the latest change referral of patients to consultants; leaves the hospital. This new learning can then management techniques in the healthcare • Redesign and colour coding of waiting areas Learning from Project be applied to other challenges faced by the industry to re-design and improve the Out- and reception to improve patient flow; Breda Kavanagh, Hospital Manager, said the hospital, and fosters a continuous improvement patient Department (OPD) of the hospital. The • Introduction of a dedicated cancellation line key learning from the project was that: culture, an analytical process improvement techniques aimed to ‘lean’ each of the different to reduce the number of patients who miss • Any change or improvement must be designed culture, and an achievement based culture. steps in OPD by cutting out wasteful approaches appointments; to be sustainable, over the medium to long The collaborative project at Clonmel was and questioning the continuation of any • Introduction of a standard GP referral term, and even where staff change over time; initiated by the Medical Board of STGH, and activities that may not add value for the patient system for patients, making the referral and • There must be tangible effects and impacts on supported by hospital management, clinicians or hospital. discharging process more efficient. the customer experience for patients and the (both medical and nursing) and the administrative The approach, backed up by research quality of working life for staff; staff of the hospital. The project expertise on the evidence, shows that – when the right support Key Results • Staff ownership of the change process is best lean/rapid improvement techniques was provided is provided – clinicians, nursing, administration, The main results from the project included: achieved through real partnership working with by the Performance Management Unit. management and other staff can be facilitated • A reduction in the time for patients waiting to be staff involved in the day-to-day work; Out-patient Departments (OPDs) provide a vital to work together to make sustainable changes in seen by the doctor by 43 per cent from an average • The best solutions and ideas for improvement link between primary care and hospital services. their own working environment. waiting time of 42 minutes to 24 minutes; often come from staff themselves; They are very often the main way that patients The goal of the approach is to develop a • A reduction in the total time a patient spent in • The best way to achieve change is through and the community form their perceptions of self-sustaining culture of continuous the Out-patient Department by 23 per cent. small cycle changes, where positive and the hospital system. Last year, there were three improvement that can respond to new or novel Commenting on the developments Dr Paud negative results lead to further learning, which million attendances at OPDs compared to more situations. O’Regan, Lead Clinician on the Project, said: cumulatively leads to wider changes. than one million at Emergency Departments.

The Callan Institute for Positive Behaviour Support

“Positive Behaviour Support: Supporting Individuals with Intellectual Disability and Behaviours that Challenge”

An 8-day training course in 6 modules

Tullamore: 23 June 2009 - April 2010 Dublin: 15th September 2009 - June 2010

This advanced, competency-based training course is designed for:

• Front-line Staff • Instructors • Psychologists • Behaviour Specialists and other qualified professionals involved in conducting assessments and designing functionally based behaviour support plans for individuals who present with behaviours that challenge.

Course is accredited with the Dublin Institute of Technology CPD accredited with Psychological Society of Ireland

Contact: Carol May Tel: 01 272 1030 or E-mail: [email protected]

Hospitality • Compassion • Respect • Justice • Excellence The Callan Institute: is a service of Saint John of God Community Services Limited Back (L to R): Dr Paud O’Regan, Clinical Director, Louise O’Donnell, Administration OPD, Mary Rose Maxwell, CNMII OPD, Breda Kavanagh, General Manager. Front (L to R): Lilian Medley, Business Manager, Clinical Directorates, Breda O’Donovan, Staff Nurse OPD, Mary Burke, Quality & Accreditation Manager

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Integrated Services Roll-Out of Diabetes Programme: an Update Education

he Integrated Services Programme, established to streamline Programme hospital and community based services, has now completed the first T stage of its work and the purpose of this article is to update you on t is well recognised that education in progress to date. self-management is the cornerstone of Implementation of the changes outlined in the Programme will be Ieffective diabetes care. With this in a significant challenge, particularly in the current difficult financial mind, a community based Diabetes environment where the emphasis is on maintaining services. However, it will Education Programme, DESMOND deliver many substantial and sustainable benefits for patients and clients. (Diabetes Education and Self Management During implementation the emphasis will be on achieving a leaner and less for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed), is costly management structure and more efficient working at all levels. currently being rolled out nationwide. The Integrated Services Programme aims to simplify the way many of our The purpose of the transition process is to ensure a full understanding DESMOND was developed in the NHS services are delivered, and to make it much easier for patients and clients of the service organisation in each of the proposed operating units and and is supported by evidence from a robust to access them. to ensure a clear transition plan is developed that takes account of the randomised controlled trial, which confirms It will also improve operational management by allowing more challenges in our current operating environment. it is an effective intervention for people with responsive local decision making and involve more clinicians such as The aim is to ensure that managers and clinicians have an opportunity to Diabetes. The trial showed a reduction in doctors, nurses and allied health professionals in managing services. input into the design in their region, within the scope of what has already weight, smoking and depression, and an The first stage concentrated on setting out the required organisation been agreed. increase in physical activity. It also showed changes to support our move to a more integrated health and social care a better understanding of diabetes among system. The objectives were to define the role of the new Quality & Clinical The objectives of the design process are to capture the knowledge patients and a change in behaviour. Care and Planning & Performance Directorates; commence the recruitment and experience of a cross section of staff at regional level in With the majority of patients receiving of new members of the senior HSE management team; set out regional relation to: their Diabetes care from their GP, the boundaries and the regional management team. These were delivered in a • Design of the operating units and sub-units, including management DESMOND programme aims to support report to our Board in December 2008. structures, both business and clinical; community-based management of the • Design of key business processes, for example service planning process illness. The programme involves six hours Organisational changes are being introduced as follows: and budget allocation process; of group education, which is usually 1) The number of Management Directorates is being reduced from 11 to 8. • Mapping out future accountability arrangements; delivered over two half-day sessions. • The National Hospitals Office and the Primary, Community and • Identifying the risks and issues for transition in that region to the new Up until now, training has taken place in Continuing Care Directorates are being merged into a single organisation. the UK, however, since February of this year, Operations Directorate. two Galway-based educators became the first • A Clinical Care and Quality Directorate is being established to Timeframes for the design are short - so the focus will be on the key Irish educators to be trained as DESMOND drive clinical governance, quality & risk and national standards and considerations and issues. trainers and assessors, making DESMOND protocols. It will also provide clinical leadership within our healthcare Final working papers will summarise findings and conclusions and will Ireland a more self-sufficient programme. system. be reviewed with the regional assistant national directors for accuracy. The Galway PCCC has supported the training • A Planning and Performance Directorate is being established Programme Steering Group will ultimately approve the new organisation and delivery of DESMOND in Galway since 2) The Operations Directorate will be divided into a number of operating design. July 2007. Three nurses and one dietician units. The aim is to have these in place for the start of 2010. Each of these Attention will be paid to the transition process so that teams and were trained to deliver the programme in operating units will be responsible for delivering all health and personal individuals are supported during this time. 2007 and a further two dieticians were trained social services locally. Details of these will be announced in due course. Guidelines will be developed to assist staff during the implementation in 2008. To date, 150 patients have attended 3) It is intended to complete the selection process for the new senior team process and our HR teams will be available to support the newly developed the programme. A dietician and public positions towards the end of March 2009. teams and Clinical Directors. health nurse have also been trained in Co There will be opportunities, initially for senior people and later for others, Mayo and the first DESMOND programme Work has also commenced on the next stage of the Programme, which to take on new roles through redeployment, re-assignment and re-skilling, is being held this month in Castlebar. will shift from being a corporate initiative to how we implement the agreed during the later part of 2009 and during 2010. A national roll-out of DESMOND is changes locally. This requires detailed design work with local managers The organisation is committed to ongoing engagement with the planned for this year. The Irish Nutrition and clinicians to develop transition plans. Partnership process as part of the overall change programme. and Dietetic Institute (INDI) are supporting There is recognition that service managers are facing tough challenges training for 20 dieticians and nurses in to meet their cost containment targets while maintaining services and the An article on the Integrated Services Programme also appeared in the Dublin, with the possibility of further training design process will take account of these pressures. Autumn 2008 issue of Health Matters. later in the year. Staff Win Award for Quit Smoking Programme embers of the HSE Dublin-Mid cessation were approved by the National Adult selection of clients and inputs were taken from Leinster Smoking Cessation Team, Literacy Agency. The development of the pack colleagues in other regions and organisations. M based in Bray, and ASH Ireland’s included substituting text with illustrations An accompanying CD was developed which Valerie Coghlan were awarded the Tom Power and high graphic content, in addition to using made the resources available in an accessible Medal by the Office of Tobacco Control (OTC) in everyday words and making sentences concise. and cost efficient format. December 2008. The resource pack was pilot tested with a Eamonn Rossi, CEO of the OTC said the The Tom Power Medal is presented in honour development of the Low Literacy Resources of the OTC’s late CEO, Tom Power, who dedicated for Smoking Cessation pack was especially himself to reducing the burden of disease and significant in terms of identifying and responding death caused by tobacco nationally and globally. to the needs of a key client group. “The quality of He was instrumental in the introduction of the the resources developed, the extent of take-up landmark smoke-free workplace legislation among the client group and the outcome of the in Ireland and he passionately believed in the pilot and evaluation stages of the project were participation of civil society in the battle against all very impressive. Marie Therese, Vincent and the tobacco epidemic. Mary developed the pack to meet the needs of Marie Therese Crotty, Vincent Moran and smokers with literacy difficulties and to assist Mary Desmond of the HSE were given the award and provide them with the essential steps to for their work on developing a literacy-friendly make a positive attempt to quit.” Joanna Boyce, Dental Nurse Dublin (South City) Pat Montague (Montague Communications); Norma who was conferred with her Dental Nurse Certificate behavioural programme for those seeking to quit Cronin (Office Tobacco Control); Valerie Coghlan Valerie Coghlan received the award for her (NEBDN) at Marino last year. This is a widely smoking, entitled ‘Low Literacy Resources for (ASH Ireland); Marie Therese Crotty, Vincent Moran commitment and support to ASH Ireland and the recognised professional dental nursing qualification Smoking Cessation’. and Mary Desmond (HSE Bray); Eamon Rossi (OTC) wider tobacco control agenda in Ireland for over which is registerable with the Dental Council and Hannah Power (Widow of Tom Power) The low literacy resources for smoking 14 years.

P6 =ZVai]bViiZgh Heg^c\ '%%. South =ZVai]bViiZgh New PCTs in Kilkenny and Cashel

new approach to healthcare for people living in Kilkenny ashel’s new PCT was officially launched on World city was launched recently by Professor Brendan Drumm, Mental Health Day (last October) by Aidan O’Brien, the A CEO of the HSE, at the Dean Street Medical Practice C internationally renowned horse trainer. premises. The Cashel PCT has four GPs (Dr Barrett, Dr Ryan, Dr Keenan This PCT sees GPs, practice nurses, public health nurses, a and Dr Murphy) and two Practice Nurses (Siobhan Ryan and physiotherapist, a speech & language therapist, an occupational Felicity Keenan) based across four practices. therapist and dieticians all working in collaboration. They host An open day, ‘Staying Well in Mind and Body’ took place to regular team meetings, where individualised care plans are mark the event. It involved stands and talks by members of the developed for patients, particularly those with chronic illnesses new PCT, including Mary Sheehan, the Community Mental Health and other complex needs. Patients can be linked into services Nurse who provided information on interventions and services such as Mental Health and the Substance Misuse Team when relating to mental health and primary care. necessary. Other issues dealt with on the day included Bereavement; One of the first initiatives developed by the Kilkenny PCT Family Health; Breast Awareness; Substance Misuse; Domestic targets older people living in the community. As part of this, the Abuse; Acquired Brain Injury; Cashel Goldstar Disability Services PCT and hospital consultants monitor the health and lifestyle HSE; the Adult Mental Health Services; Stress Management; Diet needs of people aged over 80 years. and Mental Health; Smoking Cessation and Exercise. Commenting on the benefits to the patient, Dr Emer Ahern, The Citizens Information Centre was also represented on the Consultant Geriatrician at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, who day, as were the Gardai. pioneered this initiative with the PCT members, said: “This project Ongoing administrative support is provided by Deirdre represents a wonderful opportunity for older people to live Back (L to R): Pat Healy (Assistant National Director, PCCC, HSE South); Ahearne, who also coordinated the day. For more information, happier and healthier lives in their own homes.” Kathleen Hartigan (Senior Speech & Language Therapist); Róisín please contact Deirdre at 062 76000. Egenton (Transformation Development Officer, HSE); Dr Tadhg Crowley Speaking at the launch, Professor Drumm maintained: “We are (Dean St Practice); Anna Marie Lanigan (Local Health Manager, aiming to have both our community and hospital based services Carlow/Kilkenny) and Dr Garry Courtney (Clinical Director, St. Luke’s Read about the launch of other new PCTs in Cavan/ working hand in glove as a single integrated service. The HSE General Hospital for Carlow/Kilkenny). Front (L to R): Brenda Drennan Monaghan, Longford, Wicklow and Offaly on pages 11 wants our patients’ journey through the health service to be (Public Health Nurse); CEO Professor Brendan Drumm and Dr Seathrún and 13. Ó Casadaigh (Dean St Practice) seamless and as delay-free as possible.”

CUH Dietitians Rank 6th in International Survey

he specialised nutrition support at Cork University Hospital’s (CUH) General Intensive Care Unit (ITU) has T been ranked sixth overall (out of the 156 worldwide ITUs that participated) in an international nutrition survey, conducted in 2008. This is an outstanding achievement. The survey focused on optimising the use of enteral Street children from Calcutta in one of the two refurbished houses used Back (L to R): Siobhan Sinnott (Senior Dietitian); Teresa Shanahan (PHN); nutrition (EN), benefits of which include reduced for halfway accommodation, funded by S.H.A.R.P Mary Sheehan (Community Mental Health Nurse); Mary Ryan Purcell complications, reduced length of stay and greatly reduced (Social Worker); Mary Fleetwood Ryan (RGN, Our Lady’s Hospital Campus, Cashel) and Tara Hunt (Transformation Development Officer). hospital costs. Participating in the survey itself involved Middle Row (L to R): Gomathy Ananthan (Senior Occupational Therapist); substantial input and was undertaken by Clare Twomey, HSE Staff Help Deirdre Ahearne (Clerical Officer); Catherine Dobbyn (PHN); Anne Maher Marie Sheahan (GITU Dieticians) and Ellen O’Mahony (PHN); Dr Gerard Barrett (GP, Cashel PCT) and Ericka Ward (Outreach Front (Cardiac ITU Dietician). It involved collating detailed data on Worker, Cuan Saor Women’s Refuge). (L to R): Seamus Moore Those Most in Need (Local Health Manager for South Tipperary); Horse Trainer Aidan O’Brien 20 consecutive patients admitted to the General ITU. Each and his wife Anne Marie O’Brien patient was monitored for 60 days. n order to help relieve • Brazil: Development of The survey was headed by Daren Heyland, MD, and his poverty and suffering in water cisterns for families in team in the Clinical Evaluation Research Unit, Kingston I memory of the famine a semi-desert area ( `6,000); General Hospital, Canada. victims 150 years previously, • Carribean: Delivery of an New Directory: Services for Older People Speaking at the presentation, Clare Twomey, said: “During the HSE staff from Cork and Kerry outreach programme for past eight years, we have endeavoured to provide the highest set up a charitable association, general relief of extreme possible standards of care to our patients, and this survey has in 1997, named ‘S.H.A.R.P’. poverty ( `6,000); given us a huge morale boost and the motivation to build on Membership is now in or around • India: Refurbishment of two these results. Achieving this award, however, would not have the 900 mark, comprising staff houses for street children been possible without the support and cooperation that we who now contribute a significant in halfway accommodation have received throughout the years from all the ITU staff.” `135,000 (approx.) each year. (`10,000) – Edith Wilkins Foundation. During 2008, just some of the projects receiving these funds To contribute via S.H.A.R.P, the included: employee simply decides for • Afghanistan: Sponsorship themself how much they want for training five local women to contribute from their salary as midwives in an area with (by direct debit) and all funding the highest maternal death goes directly to a project. By ` rates in the world ( 7,300); contributing, even just a small A Directory of Services for Older People in counties Carlow and • Albania: Supply of equipment amount, you can make a real Kilkenny was recently launched. The directory will provide older people for a medical centre ( `3,400) and lasting difference. with information on relevant services, activities and agencies available to them in their own community. Those who funded and developed – to read more on this, the directory included: HSE South; Carlow Older People’s Network; please see article on Micheal For more information, Kilkenny Older People’s Network; Carlow-Kilkenny Champions for Older Tony McNamara, General Manager presents the award to Clare Twomey, Kenning’s visit (Autumn 2008 please contact: Billy Collins People Team and Carlow Area Network Development Organisation Front Senior ITU Dietician. Also pictured, (L to R): Ellen O’Mahony, edition of Health Matters ); (Chairman) Tel: 087 656 9754; (CANDO). The directory has been distributed free of charge and further Senior Dietician; Marie Sheahan, Senior Dietician; Siobhan Twomey, copies are available from Olive Fanning, Health Promotion. Tel: 059 Senior Dietician; Annemarie Fanning, Dietician Manager. Back (L to R): • Bangladesh: Repair and Miriam Lynch (Secretary) 914 3630. Pictured at the launch were (L to R): Olive Fanning, Health Dr Rodney Meeke, Consultant Anaesthetist; Helen O’Connor CNM1; refurbishment of a flood Tel: 021 492 7140 or Lil Manley Promotion, HSE South; Fiona Dunne, VEC; Jim Campbell; Ana Lopes, Bridget Doyle, CNM3 and Grace Reidy, Nurse Service Manager damaged school ( `8,100); (Treasurer) Tel: 021 492 3842. CANDO and Olivia Power, Carlow Day Care Centre

Heg^c\ '%%. =ZVai]bViiZgh P7 Dublin Mid Leinster =ZVai]bViiZgh

IV Initiative Reduces Need for ED Admissions service being developed by the HSE in Longford and Cashel could end the need for hundreds of older A people every year to be relocated to an Emergency Department (ED) when they need rehydration therapy and IV antibiotics. On a visit to St Joseph’s Community Nursing Unit, Longford, CEO Professor Brendan Drumm said he would like to see the intravenous (IV) therapy services available in all of the HSE’s 143 Community Nursing Units across the country as soon as possible. “While this service can reduce the demand for Emergency Department services and Ambulance services, most importantly it eliminates the need for many elderly patients to incur the upset of having to move to unfamiliar surroundings and have their normal care and routine interrupted for this straight forward service,” he said. Professor Drumm complimented the medical and nursing (L to R): Mary McEvoy; Mary O’ Connor, Assistant Director of Nursing, St Vincent’s Hospital Mountmellick; Liam O’ Callaghan, Local Health Manager Laois/Offaly; staff based in St Joseph’s and in St Patricks, Cashel for taking Paula Phelan, Acting Director of Nursing; John Moloney, TD, Minister of State; Denis O’Mara, Cathaoirleach Mountmellick Town Council and Shad Akbar a lead role in this new pilot service and for their innovative and highly patient-focused work. “This is exactly the kind of initiatives we are rolling out nationally which can bring care closer to people’s homes. New Dementia Unit They improve quality and safety for clients, they maximise the use of our resources and they represent the future – the right Provides High Quality Care care in the right place and the right time,” he concluded.

new Dementia Unit, St Martha’s, The construction of the unit began in centred unit for persons with dementia in St Vincent’s Hospital, 2006 and a project team was established and for working with me over the last two A Mountmellick, Co Laois, was to gain insight into the needs of persons years to deliver on this project. officially opened in November 2008 by with dementia and their families. The project “This development forms an important John Moloney, TD, Minister of State. team consisted of multi-professional team part of the overall development of The purpose built, eight-bed unit members representing GPs, psychiatry, Residential Services for Older Persons in provides the highest level of quality care in therapies, nursing staff, care assistants and the Laois/Offaly Local Health Office area a patient centred environment to patients management from St Vincent’s Hospital, and demonstrates the ongoing cooperation with dementia from the Laois/Offaly area, in addition to The Alzheimer’s Association between the two counties,” he added. including those under 65 years. and members of the community. The team Paula Phelan, Acting Director of The dedicated Dementia Unit – which developed procedures and guidelines Nursing at St Vincent’s Hospital added: “I includes six long-stay beds, one emergency around evidence based best practice and would also like to acknowledge the work bed and one respite bed – is expected to information to instruct and guide service and efforts the entire staff, community reduce the need in Laois/Offaly to admit provision. and patients placed in the development of Pictured (L to R): Shirley Jones, Nurse; Alice Merry, patient; Brid McGoldrick, Director of Nursing at St. Joseph’s Care Services, Longford persons with dementia to an acute hospital Speaking at the opening of the new this unit. The unit will provide dedicated, and CEO Professor Brendan Drumm on his recent visit to the hospital setting as specialised care is provided. Staff unit, Liam O’Callaghan, Local Health specialised care for persons with at the unit also assist families in supporting Manager Laois/Offaly said: “I would like dementia in an environment that can their family member at home to a greater to extend my thanks to all those involved appropriately respond to their specific extent, where possible, and also offering in the development, including the design and identified needs. In addition, the Suicide advice and training in caring for a person and construction team, but particularly to Clinical Nurse Specialist will also provide with dementia, and facilitating the the staff of the hospital for identifying the support and training to staff in other long Prevention formation of support groups. need to develop a dedicated, person- stay units in Laois/Offaly.” Support for Bereavement Services Strengthened Midlands ay Kennedy (pictured above) was recently appointed Bereavement Forum, recently held in Tullamore, had the aim of Suicide Resource Officer for Laois/Offaly. Kay’s role will focusing effort around the most appropriate support for people K involve working with statutory and voluntary organisations A facing death, and those charged with supporting them, in the in Laois and Offaly to heighten public awareness around the Midlands. Organised by the HSE and the Irish Hospice Foundation, the issue of suicide and to assist community and voluntary groups to forum also sought to gather information and establish relationships in develop preventative responses in line with the 10 year National an effort to identify and strengthen services. This will contribute to the Strategy on Suicide Prevention, ‘REACH OUT 2005 – 2014’. completion of the Midland Bereavement Care Liaison Project. In addition, she will work closely with Josephine Rigney, the Speakers included Brid Carroll, Psychotherapist; Orla Keegan, Head of Regional Training and Development Officer covering Laois/ Education Research & Bereavement Services with the IHF; Celine Deane, Offaly and Longford/Westmeath. Josephine provides a wide Senior Medical Social Worker with Beaumont Hospital; Frances Shearer, range of training and awareness sessions covering every aspect National Coordinator for RSE Programme and Ursula Bates, Director of of mental health. As part of a suicide prevention initiative, the Psychosocial and Bereavement Services in Blackrock Hospice. HSE Midlands is also running a suicide awareness programme Opening the forum, Liam O’Callaghan, Local Health Manager entitled ‘Gatekeeper Community Education Programme’ which Laois/Offaly said: “This forum will allow us to share information, gather is taking place in Laois/Offaly and Longford/Westmeath. The information and form valuable relationships to ensure appropriate programmes are aimed at everyone who has an interest in mental (L to R): Ursula Bates, Director of Psychosocial and bereavement services are formed and strengthened in the Midlands.” Bereavement Services in Blackrock Hospice; Liam health, and also those who have an interest and commitment to The forum concluded with an afternoon workshop session which O’Callaghan, Local Health Manager Laois/Offaly; Maria developing community links within their local area. covered training and education in bereavement; information and Costello, Bereavement Care Liaison Officer for Laois/Offaly and Longford/Westmeath; Celine Deane, Senior Medical resources; assessment and pathways to care and standards in service Social Worker with Beaumont Hospital; Brid Carroll, If you require further information, please contact: Josephine provision and, finally, a plenary session which allowed those who attended Psychotherapist and Orla Keegan, Head of Education Rigney, Training & Development Officer, Suicide Resource Office to discuss the achievements and gaps in the service in the Midlands. Research & Bereavement Services with the Irish Hospice HSE. Tel: 057 866 4513 or Kay Kennedy, Suicide Resource Officer, Foundation (HF) Suicide Resource Office, HSE. Tel: 057 937 0655.

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Cancer Patients to Benefit from New Radiotherapy Equipment

Advanced Paramedic Wins Body Building Championship

midlands-based Advanced Paramedic, Paul McCabe, has no problems lifting patients as part of his day job A having recently won the All Ireland Body Building Championships. Pictured (L to R): Padraic White, Chairman of St Luke’s; Mary Harney, TD, Minister for Health and Children; Ann Broekhoven, CEO, St Luke’s and Prof Paul made a dramatic comeback in the 2008 Tom Keane, Interim Director, HSE National Cancer Control Programme Championships to take the national Lightweight Title and achieve first place in the Best Overall Routine Category ight hundred additional cancer patients will be treated each the National Network for Radiation Oncology services. That after taking a six-year sabbatical from body building to year at St Luke’s Hospital, Rathgar with the most advanced plan provides for two large radiation oncology centres in Dublin concentrate on his studies in advanced paramedics. E radiotherapy equipment available in Ireland as a result alongside the teaching hospitals of St James’s and Beaumont, the He went back to college to study Advanced Paramedics at of the installation of four new linear accelerators (LINACS) at a maximum involvement of the expertise and ethos of St Luke’s both UCD after spending 13 years working with the Ambulance cost of over `15m. The new radiation technology at St Luke’s will nationally and in Dublin and the cessation eventually of radiation Service. ‘’Having worked with the Ambulance Service for 13 improve survival and quality of life for cancer patients. treatment at St Luke’s. years, the past three as an Advanced Paramedic, I have come The LINACS at St Luke’s Hospital provide a combination of The national re-organisation of cancer services has been to realise how important it is to stay in shape in order to carry two powerful tools to ensure the most accurate and effective accelerated since the appointment in September 2007 of out the job. Being a paramedic or an advanced paramedic concentration of radiation treatment on cancerous tumours: Professor Tom Keane as interim head of the National Cancer in Ireland today is a fantastic career choice for any one Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) and Image Control Programme (NCCP). Professor Keane is a member of the interested in patient care.” Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT). The new unit at St Luke’s was Board of St Luke’s Hospital. Describing the benefits of being fit Paul said: “I have officially opened by the Minister for Health and Children, Mr White said that the next 18 months, to September 2010, will discovered over the years that the sport of body building has Mary Harney TD. see the commissioning of the eight new Linear Accelerators in been fundamental in my ability to achieve many goals both in my Speaking at the opening, Padraic White, Chairman of St. total at St James’s and Beaumont Hospitals. It is estimated that job and indeed in my personal life due to the discipline involved.” Luke’s said: “All four machines, two of them replacing ageing these new treatment LINACS and the four new LINACS officially He has a strict training schedule ahead of competitions: units, provide patient access to the best technology. St Luke’s launched at St Luke’s will be sufficient to meet the requirements “My diet starts 12 weeks out and I will consistently eat is proud to have been the first public hospital in the Republic of the Dublin region at that time. seven meals a day and train six days a week, involving both to make IMRT and IGRT available to public patients. The result He said the net radiotherapy capacity in the Dublin area will weight training and cardio. It means being very organised of this investment and the welcome addition of the extra staff increase by 50pc in 2010 to the benefit of patients. A Project and preparing my meals the night before so that I can eat no needed is that St Luke’s enters the year 2009 with more treatment Team will be set up by the National Cancer Control Programme to matter where I am, due to the unpredictability of the job but it capacity than ever in its 53-year history. We now have eight fully manage the transition in the Dublin region and St Luke’s will be an can be done with a little planning”. operational treatment LINACS and will be able to treat more integral part of this team. Having previously represented Ireland in power-lifting, Paul patients – about 800 extra this year, reduce the waiting periods St Luke’s staff, led by Chief Executive, Ann Broekhoven, will is delighted to be back in the sport and says that he is already for patients and allow the delivery of more complex and precise be part of the National Cancer Control Programme and will looking forward to the next competition. “I suppose I’ll aim treatment to the benefit of all our patients.” have more flexibility, opportunity and choice within the Dublin towards the end of 2009 or the start of 2010’’. The investment has taken place against the background of network of services. Although a native of Monaghan, Paul has been living and working in Athlone and Moate since 1981. He is now based in Athlone with the Advanced Paramedic Team. Speaking about his career, Paul says: ‘‘Since the setting Vourneen Steps Out For Charity up of the PHECC (Pre-hospital Emergency Care Council), standards have been established and clinical practice ublin based Superintendent abused, with therapy and counselling.” guidelines put into operation that has established the Community Welfare Officer, But she admitted that she had to Irish Ambulance Service as one of the most progressive, D Vourneen McKeever, stepped undertake a fitness regime ahead of internationally. It is a career that has a combination of up to the challenge of a charity walk in the challenge to become really fit: “In components that make Cuba to raise money for CARI (Children order to train for the trip I trekked in it unique. Then there is At Risk in Ireland). Vourneen was joined Glendalough and did lots of walking, as the adrenaline rush one by 16 volunteers for the Cuba Challenge, well as some gym work. The fundraising experiences in dealing with aptly called ‘Havana Great Time in Cuba was also hard work but good fun too”. calls, not to mention the for CARI’ for the nine-day walk, which - to Vourneen has said that the whole satisfaction in making a date - has raised `50,000. experience exceeded her expectations. positive impact on patient Commenting, Vourneen, who personally Speaking about the challenge, she Vourneen McKeever and Valerie Brereton with outcome. Being part of a raised `6,200 for the charity, said: “The enthused: “The country, the people, the Liber (centre), their Cuban guide team is great and I must say benefit to me is the feel good factor from music, the history – all amazed me from the we have a fantastic bunch the fitness, the achievement and the fantastic architecture in the cities to the CARI’s next charity walk in Peru takes of lads and lassies working knowledge that I have helped CARI to shy but welcoming people in their simple place from 7-16th October 2009. Further together on the ground.’’ help children who have been sexually homes in the mountains”. information is available from www.cari.ie

Heg^c\ '%%. =ZVai]bViiZgh P9 West =ZVai]bViiZgh

HSE West New Medical Block to be Built: Accreditation Letterkenny General Hospital for Blood Holds Clinical Transfusion Dept Workshop he Blood Transfusion Department, Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, Co Galway received in Sligo T Laboratory Accreditation from the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB) in October he third annual HSE West Clinical 2008. Blood Transfusion Laboratory Accreditation Workshop took place in November means the formal recognition of competence T 2008. to conduct specific blood bank activities. The aim of the workshop was to provide This recognition is based on compliance with an innovative forum for debate on the international and European standards. Compliance patient journey from community to hospital with these standards requires organisations to and vice versa. demonstrate competence, impartiality and integrity. At the workshop, Consultants from Sligo General Hospital, GPs from Sligo, Leitrim, South Donegal, Mayo and Roscommon; General Practice Registrars, along with HSE West Receives management representatives from both hospital and community services came Recognition of

together to discuss a range of commonly An Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mary Coughlan TD at the contract signing for the encountered conditions and their new Medical Block at Letterkenny General Hospital. Seated from left are Brian Gilroy, Director of Estates HSE Innovative Practice management. West, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mary Coughlan TD and Bernard McNamara, Presentations were made on a wide Contractor. Back from left are Janet Doherty, Senior Medical Manager, Mr. Doherty CNM3 Emergency he Haematology team of the Mid Western Department, Dr. Sinead O’Gorman, Consultant Emergency Medicine, Michael Martin, Estates Manager, Dr. Ken range of themes such as multiple sclerosis, Mullpeter, Sean Murphy, General Manager Letterkenny Hospital, Michael Bermingham, Estates Manager HSE Regional Hospital recently received third back pain, gastroenteritis and croup in West, Maura Hickey, Acting Director of Nursing and Midwifery and Alison Shepard, Service Manager Surgery T place in the Myeloproliferative Disorders children and included panel discussions (MPD) Innovations in Practice Awards. on a range of subjects, including laboratory anuary saw the HSE signing a Public decrease treatment times. The ED/Medical Over 200 projects were submitted and this utilisation and MRSA management. Works Contract for a new Medical Block Assessment Unit is designed to cater for was the only Irish hospital to be short listed. The The workshop provided an excellent J at Letterkenny General Hospital. The approximately 42,000 new attendances per project outlined the development of an MPD forum for debate and discussion on total floor area of the development will be year, while the current attendance rate is clinic in order to ensure that a specialist service integrated patient care from clinical approximately 6,600 square metres, making approximately 30,000. was given to patients. Those involved aimed for a and managerial perspectives and was it the largest capital development currently in Each of the three Medical Wards has been turnaround time of one hour for patient treatment. an excellent learning and networking the western region of the HSE. Work onsite will designed to the highest standard to enhance the Activity in the clinic has been audited twice opportunity for all involved. commence almost immediately, with an agreed patients’ experience and that of their relatives. since it commenced and each audit has shown construction programme of 92 weeks which Of the 24 beds in each ward, 66 per cent (or 16) increased efficiency. should see the facilities operational in 2010. are single rooms which will dramatically improve A patient survey has also shown patient The new multi-storey building will the privacy and dignity of the patient experience. satisfaction with the new service. accommodate a new Emergency Department The high percentage of single rooms will also (ED) with a co-located Medical Assessment Unit provide much improved infection control on the ground floor with three floors above, each facilities, with less likelihood for cross infection. consisting of a 24 bedded Medical Ward. The Each of the three floors also contains four Medical Assessment Unit – which will contain 11 fully compliant isolation rooms, incorporating beds, including isolation facilities – will be used the latest technology and design to best to cater for the increasing number of medical international standards. patients who attend or are referred to the Commenting on the plan, Sean Murphy, Letterkenny General Hospital for treatment. The Manager, Letterkenny General Hospital, said: development also includes a new waste facility “Design work began on this scheme in late At the workshop held in Sligo were (L to R): Roger and mortuary chapel. 2003 and intensive consultation, buy-in and Towey, Sanofi Aventis; Nash Patil, Consultant ENT The ED will consist of 20 patient treatment commitment from hospital staff, HSE Estates (L to R): Rebecca Adams (UK Xagrid product Surgeon, Sligo General Hospital; Helena Maguire, manager); Maria Kelleher (Irish product manager); Senior Projects Officer, Sligo General Hospital; spaces, to include major and minor treatment personnel and the appointed design team have Dr Rabia (Haematology Registrar); Catherine Brid McElgunn, GP, Coolaney, Co Sligo; Michael cubicles and rooms, plaster bays, resuscitation resulted in the design of a first-class facility to Kearney (Staff Nurse); Fiona Joy (CNS); Geraldine Coleman, GP, Tubbercurry, Co Sligo; and Noel Scott, spaces and a dedicated x-ray room, which will assist with the delivery of acute services for the Daly (CNS); Margaret Danaher (Staff Nurse); Delma Specialist/Primary Care, HSE West reduce transfer times of patients, and thus population of Donegal.” Hackett (CNS) and Professor Mufti (guest speaker) New Patient Forum at Mayo General Hospital new Patient Forum designed to enable objective in setting up this Forum is to improve patients, staff and members of the the service we offer to the people of Mayo A public to have a say in the quality through consultation with service users and of services being provided at Mayo General their representatives. We are hoping to learn Hospital was launched by Stephen McMahon, from the experiences of patients and carers Chairman of the Irish Patients’ Association at and gain an improved understanding of their the hospital in December. needs and preferences.” The Patient Forum will provide members with an opportunity to exchange opinions on the type Proposed topics to be discussed by the and quality of services being delivered. The new Forum over an initial two-year period include: Forum is made up of 12 people – six members • Service trends/ patient activity; of the public and six hospital staff – and is • Planned service developments; representative of hospital service users, their • Quality of service, including measures of carers and members of staff at the hospital. access to hospital services; Pictured at the launch were Back (L to R): Staff representatives – Michael Geraghty, Catering and Hygiene; Ger Commenting on the establishment of the • Patient satisfaction measurements and Shaw, Director of Nursing; Michael O’ Brien, Deputy General Manager & Complaints Officer; Tony Canavan, forum, Geraldine Shaw, Director of Nursing, quality initiatives; General Manager; Stephen McMahon, Chairman, Irish Pateints’ Association; Michael O’Neill, Consultant Mayo General Hospital, said: “The overall • Patient and Carer feedback. Paediatrician; Ramons Neill, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Infection Control. Front (L to R): Public Representatives – Mary Killeen; Anne McDonnell; Mary McGreal, Brendan Githrie, Michael Jordan, Michael Murphy

P10 =ZVai]bViiZgh Heg^c\ '%%. Dublin North East =ZVai]bViiZgh

Improving the New Oncology Day Oral Health of Travellers Services Unit new resource book has been A developed Opens in Drogheda to improve the oral Una Mohan (left) and Deirdre Martin (right), Public ` Health Nurses, give Minister Brendan Smith, TD, a health of Travellers as new 1.3 million, purpose-built Oncology Day Services Unit has been officially opened at tour of the new PCT facilities part of the ‘ToothWise Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. The new Unit was developed in response to the Programme’, being A increasing number of patients availing of oncology services at the hospital. delivered in Meath by The oncology service provided at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital is a dedicated service for the North Cavan/Monaghan the Oral Health Education Officer and the East region. The catchment area covers Louth, Meath, Cavan, Monaghan and North County Dublin. Primary Health Care Projects. In 2008, 1,883 patients were seen at the consultant-led clinics. The number of patients seen at the Launch Second PCT The ‘ToothWise Oral Health Resource nurse-led clinics was 3,349 – a 61 per cent increase from the previous year. Book’ was first piloted and, after positive The number of Oncology Day cases for the 12 months also rose, with 2,157 patients being seen. new Primary Care Team (PCT) was results were shown, then delivered to In 2008, the medical oncology service received 300 new referrals. These patients presented with recently launched in Clones, Co families in the wider Travelling community the following cancers: Breast, Bowel, Lung, Gastrointestinal, Non Hodgkins Lymphoma, Ovarian, A Monaghan, which makes it the second in Meath. The resource is easy to use Hodgkins Disease and others. The Oncology Team is a primarily nurse-led service and is headed up PCT to be developed in the Cavan/Monaghan and suitable for use with both adults and by Dr Liam Grogan, Consultant Medical Oncologist and an Oncology Registrar. The team also liaises area. children. with Medical, Surgical, Haematology, Regional Palliative Care and Breast Care Services locally, and From a new facility, the PCT will serve The book was designed by the Oral Health Radiotherapy Services nationally. the 5,700 people living in Clones and the Education Officer, two Traveller Community New referrals, averaging six per week, are triaged by the local nursing team, with all urgent surrounding areas. The team consists of public Health Workers and the Public Health Nurse referrals seen within one week. Treatment will commence usually within six weeks of surgery. health nurses, community general nurses, an Coordinator of the Primary Health Care Governance within the service is by multidisciplinary team meetings which take place bi-weekly. occupational therapist, a speech and language Project for Travellers. Supports for the patient and their families are available through the skill and expertise of the staff therapist and physiotherapists. There will also The Oral Health Education Officer also who also provide ongoing patient education. Nursing advice and support is available by phone and be a range of other services based across the delivered training to all Community Health as a drop-in service, if required. One-to-one counselling can also be arranged and there is liaison network delivering services from the centre. Workers in the Meath Primary Health Care with the Gary Kelly Cancer Support Centre on an ongoing basis. There will be a monthly Enuresis Clinic Project for Travellers on the oral health (bedwetting in children) involving the PHNs messages contained in the resource book. and the Community Paediatrician, with more This information can now be shared with specialities being developed through the other Oral Health Promotion Services and network in the coming months. The other PCT Primary Health Care Projects for Travellers based in the area is located at Virginia and has for use in joint training and can be adapted been providing a wide range of health services to meet the needs of Intercultural Groups to the local population since 2002. Further PCTs and Special Needs Groups due to its clear are planned for North Monaghan, Ballybay, and bold visual content. Castleblayney, Cootehill and Cavan town. As a result of this programme, the Meath Dental Services and the Primary Health PHN Guidelines Care Project for Travellers have developed The guidelines ‘Best Practice Guide in Public a good working relationship. The Traveller Health Nursing’ were also launched on the day Community Health Workers recently of the Clones PCT launch. delivered Traveller Cultural Awareness Developed by the Cavan/Monaghan Public training to the Meath Dental Services Health Nursing Service, their purpose is to which further strengthened the relationship ensure evidence based practice and ongoing between the two services. audit of the public health nursing service, all of which are essential to PCT working, and to For further information, please contact Mary ensure that the service provides the highest Carr, Oral Health Education Officer, Dental possible standards of care. Clinic, Navan, Co Meath. Tel: 087 288 6897; Pictured (L to R): Christine Conway, Wendy Rock, Martina Owens, Claire Herbert, Liz Summersby, Grainne A set of the guidelines has been made Email: [email protected] Mooney, Dara McGeough, Elaine Conyard and Niamh Thornton – all Oncology staff – with Dr Liam Grogan, available to each Primary Care Unit and Health Consultant Medical Oncologist, at the official opening Centre in Cavan and Monaghan.

New Medical Community Nursing Assessment Unit Unit Provides More Beds new 50-bed Community Nursing Unit Opens in Navan is under construction on the grounds new Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) A of Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, Co at Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, recently Meath. The new unit will provide 17 respite care A opened in order to respond to urgent beds, with the remaining 33 beds facilitating and semi-urgent medical cases. Rehabilitation, Assessment & Review and The new unit is a short-stay medical Long Term Care with access to Palliative Care assessment area that has relieved pressure on Services. the Emergency Department and has reduced The unit will also extend a range of day inappropriate admissions to in-patient beds. services to both Psychiatric and Elderly clients, The new unit also accepts direct referrals from ranging from Medical, Nursing, Physiotherapy, GPs, without having to attend the Emergency Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Department. Enhanced secretarial assistance in Therapy, Social Work and Diversional Therapies the MAU allows for same day communication Services. with GPs. Medical Assessment Units are also The services presently being delivered from (L to R): Jason Murtagh, Staff Nurse; Louise Geraghty, Staff Nurse; Mandy Duff, Attendant; Geraldine Quinn, due to open soon at Cavan General Hospital the County Infirmary (i.e., Psychiatric Day Care Clinical Nurse Manger; Dr Mc Garry, Consultant Physician and Aileen Maguire, Director of Nursing in the and Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. services and Respite Elderly Services) will be New Medical Assessment Unit transferred to this unit when it is completed.

Heg^c\ '%%. =ZVai]bViiZgh P11 =ZVai]bViiZgh New Procurement Policy Puts Spotlight on Sustainability

rocurement is a major part of the Procurement staff should adhere to e.g. ‘Environmental Cleaning Contract’ HSE’s work. The HSE has an annual the following guidelines: or ‘Energy Efficient Building’. P spend of `4.5bn per annum on • Minimise need to purchase – in • Record environmental performance a diverse range of products and services advance of going to tender, staff should – environmental impact/benefits of a and, as such, is the largest purchasing be satisfied that the procurement is contract award should be detailed in the body within the public sector in Ireland. Our necessary, and appropriately specified ‘Contract Approval Request’ document. purchasing processes have many effects, to minimise the environmental life-cycle but one of the most important is the effect impact; 2) Social Sustainability Policy that our decions have on the environment • Specify requirements – specifications Social sustainability covers a wide range and our social world. As such, we have should include relevant environmental of issues from health and safety, education a responsibility to develop practices that factors/considerations, such as: and training though to social inclusion take help to reduce any negative impact on - Means of production (i.e., restrict use and eradicating poverty. Our policy is our society and on our environment. of hazardous substances, require to promote and take account of social Environmental sustainability aims to minimum percentage of recycled factors when buying products, services or make decisions that help to ensure the or reused content, source organic works. This includes ensuring that service health and continuation of our planet – for alternatives); providers meet their statutory obligations. this to be effective, we must change some - Delivery (i.e., consider packaging of our work practices (for instance, aiming – volume and recyclability); Procurement staff should adhere (Left) Leo Stronge, Head of Procurement, HSE, Billy Noone, NPPPU, for ‘green procurement’). Similarly, social - In-service (i.e., consider energy to the following guidelines: Department of Finance and Feng Weizen, Deputy Director, Dept. of sustainability strives to ensure a better efficiency, emissions, noise and light • Specify requirements – Social matters International Cooperation Health Bureau of Zhejiang Province, China quality of life for everyone, now and for pollution); relevant to the contract should be future generations. - End of Life (i.e., assess disposal volume, considered and may include: The HSE recognises that, taking both hazardous nature of material and - Obligations relating to taxes; Procurement Staff environmental and social sustainability recyclability). - Accessibility of products or services into consideration, we must think carefullly • Include selection criteria – include for persons with disabilities; Welcome Chinese Visitors about what we purchase, and the way relevant environmental criteria, namely; - Employment protection provisions; in which we purchase, so that we move - Exclusion criteria (where companies - Working conditions. Chinese delegation met with HSE Procurement towards achieving a health system that have acted against environmental • Require statement of compliance staff in late 2008 to gain a greater insight into the sees greater social inclusion and equity. legislation or regulations); – the HSE shall require candidates or A Procurement process within the HSE. With all this in mind, HSE Procurement - Technical criteria (ask tenderers to tenderers to state that they have taken The delegation, from the Zhejiang Province in China, has drawn up a new Procurement Policy. demonstrate their technical capacity to account of the obligations relating to included representatives from the Department of The full policy is now available in the perform environmental management employment protection and conditions. Cooperation Health Bureau; the Government Procurement Procurement section of the HSE Intranet measures). • Include sheltered workshops – Supervision Division and the Science and Technology (http://hsenet.hse.ie). The aim of the new • Consider award criteria – it may whenever appropriate, the HSE will restrict Exchange Centre with Foreign Countries – all came with the policy is to facilitate procurement staff and be appropriate to insert relevant award of public contracts to sheltered intention of learning from the HSE’s best practice model to promote improved awareness of the key environmental criteria such as; workshops or protected job programmes. within the area of Procurement. issues involved in green procurement and - Purchase and all associated costs (i.e., • Update Education & Training – staff The national Procurement function, which supports social sustainability, delivery, installation, commissioning); involved in procurement are required to sourcing and contracting activity, as well as the function of - Operating costs (i.e., including energy, maintain an awareness of leading edge logistics and inventory management across the HSE, is a 1) Green Procurement spares and maintenance); socially responsible procurement practices recognised best practice model. The policy is to promote and take account - End of life costs (i.e., decommissioning and attend organised education and Procurement within the HSE is carried out in an open and of environmental factors when buying and removal). training seminars as required. transparent manner, in line with EU Directives and other products, services or works. Environmental • Include performance clauses relevant standards to ensure quality products and services impacts to be considered include energy, – such as requiring bulk deliveries, use of The full Procurement Policy includes a list of are purchased for use by patients and clients and that waste or waste water. The current HSE re-usable containers to deliver product, useful reference sites. Further suggestions maximum value for money is achieved. contract for fuel oil is a good example of deliveries during off peak traffic times and regarding socially and environmentally In September, the HSE introduced a Price Management ‘green procurement’ as it includes the removal of packaging. responsible Procurement are, as always, Initiative which required a price freeze from all its Suppliers introduction of a blend of up to 5 per cent • Promote environmental performance welcome. Please send via email to: and Service Providers up to the end of 2009. bio-diesel. – where relevant, choose a ‘green’ title, [email protected] Minister Applauds Work of Mental Health Nurse Managers

ohn Moloney, TD, Minister of State for Equality, Disability and Mental Martina McGuinness, NPDC, presented the results of a recent research Health, applauded the work undertaken by nurse managers in project she carried out on the impact of a ‘high observation unit’ in the J relation to mental health care provision when he spoke at the 10th psychiatric admission unit in Tallaght Hospital. Mental Health Nurse Managers conference, held last November in Co Kildare. John Redican, CEO of the Irish Advocacy Network, gave an insightful The title of the conference, which was hosted by the Kildare/West view from a service user perspective, and stressed the importance of Wicklow Mental Health Service was ‘Achieving New Levels of Excellence.’ actively engaging in what the service user wants, rather than what the John Hynes, the chairperson of Mental Health Nurse Managers Ireland, health professional thinks they should have. opened the conference, while Joe McFadden, Director of Nursing with the Terry Prone, from the Communications Clinic, urged delegates to use host service, welcomed delegates. effective creative communication within management structures to help Back row (L to R): Joe McFadden, Prof Kevin Martin Rogan, Assistant National Director of Mental Health, updated achieve improved patient outcomes. Gournay CBE, John Redican CEO IAN, John delegates on the implementation of the ‘Vision for Change’ policy. Catherine O’Rourke, President of Mental Health Nurse Managers Hynes Chairperson MHNMI, Martin Rogan Prof Kevin Gournay, CBE, keynote speaker, stressed the importance of Ireland, stressed the importance of senior nurse managers utilising HSE. Front row (L to R): Dr Michele Cahill, Clinical Director, Minister John Moloney, TD delivering evidence based care and the need for long term investment in opportunities, such as conferences, to work collaboratively in advancing and Terry Prone, Communications specialist mental health. quality patient care nationally.

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Portarlington PCT CEO Officially Opens Demonstrates Teamwork at its Best

Springfield Centre he Portarlington PCT has been operating in Co Laois since July 2003 as was one of 10 National he extension to the Springfield Centre, Mullingar was T Implementation Sites. This PCT, five years on, has seen officially opened by CEO of the HSE, Professor Brendan the culmination of many of its aims and, as such, has set the T Drumm on his recent trip to Longford/Westmeath. standard for integrated team working on the front line. The centre provides a flexible service to adults and children The team consists of GPs, Public Health and Community with physical and sensory disabilities, as well as to their carers, Nurses, Physiotherapists, an Occupational Therapist, a Social service providers and the local community. Worker and numerous Home Help providers. It has operated Commending the staff, Professor Drumm said: “I am as a learning site for integrated care through the ICON project delighted to be in Mullingar to officially open the extension to and aspires to provide truly integrated care for its population. the Springfield Centre. The opening of the centre is a tribute to The key to the successful teamwork in the Portarlington everyone who contributed to make it what it is. This is a great step PCT is down to a number of factors, namely: a willingness to forward for disability services in Longford/Westmeath.” embrace change; respect for each other; an investment in The centre works in partnership with the HSE and the Irish team building at a very early stage and a genuine desire to Wheelchair Association to combine work, education and leisure Pictured at the unveiling of the commemorative plaque are (L to R): improve the patient experience of services in Portarlington. pursuits with assessment, rehabilitation and care needs for its Maura Morgan; Joe Ruane, Local Health Manager Longford: client base. Westmeath, CEO, Professor Brendan Drumm and Patricia Carroll Clinical Team Meetings The ethos is to promote independence and full participation The weekly clinical team meeting is the catalyst for in society and integration into the community. To achieve this, Brendan Colleary in making the building become a reality must be integration, communication and shared care and is the single the centre provides services such as: therapeutic assessment acknowledged on this day. Brendan has recently retired from the most important hour of the week for team members. The for both adults and children, physiotherapy; occupational HSE, but the fruits of his labour will benefit all the staff who work meetings work because they: save time (they reduce phone therapy; speech and language therapy; therapeutic intervention; in the building and the clients who attend it for years to come.” calls, referrals, and duplications; they are well attended by rehabilitative training; education, activation, socialisation and job Patricia Carroll, Manager of the centre added: “I would like to all members (Practice and HSE staff); they allow for the coaching, to name just a few. take this opportunity to commend the staff, partners and other sharing of relevant information in a timely manner and all Speaking at the opening, Joseph Ruane, Local Health Manager organisations who work in the centre. There has been a huge professionals can collaborate easily on shared cases Longford/Westmeath said: “Whilst always wary of singling any amount of work invested by all parties and by the local health one person out for particular acknowledgement, the work of office staff.” Major Achievements The Team has achieved many things, but is specifically proud of the following initiatives that they have put in place: • Falls Prevention – Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy & GP; Launch of New PCTs • PLAN – Programme for Lifestyle, Activity & Nutrition – Dietician, Physiotherapist and PHN; Across Dublin Mid Leinster • Anxiety Management – Social Worker & Occupational Therapist; our new Primary Care Teams (PCTs) were launched in • Finding Your Way – Primary Care & Mental Health Initiative November 2008 – two in Longford, one in Wicklow and Support Group for people with Schizophrenia; F one in Banagher/Kilcormac. • Hydro Physiotherapy – in association with the local The teams will provide services such as GP Practice services, swimming pool community nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, social • Increased independence among patients – members of the work, psychology, diabetic nurse services, dietetics and podiatry. PCT have been actively trying to deliver services through The PCTs will enable patients to access services more readily group programmes which support people to care for Members of the Longford PCT with HSE CEO Professor Brendan Drumm and enhance the capacity for primary care in the areas of themselves more and rely less on health services; (centre) at the recent launch disease prevention, rehabilitation and personal social services to complement the existing diagnosis and treatment focus. Community Needs Assessment The regular team development meetings and clinical team The Portarlington Acting Together for Community Health meetings held by each PCT will also ensure that individual (PATCH) group commenced the Community Needs patients’ needs are delivered in an integrated way, with Assessment in January 2007. The group consists of statutory multidisciplinary sharing of information that will lead to agency and community development representatives and has improved care planning for the patient. proved extremely useful for the PCT. As a result of the needs assessment, the PCT coordinated a ‘Health & Wellbeing Fun The PCTs will serve the following populations (approx): & Information Day’ in September of last year. The day was • 17,000 in Longford – covering the areas of Drumlish, Longford a huge success, with a good attendance, and included 30 Town, Killashee and surrounding areas. Further teams are health related stands with advice about the various health planned to be developed for Granard, Ballymahon and services available. Edgeworthstown. • 7,471 in Wicklow – covering the electoral divisions in the Shillelagh Copies of the Community Needs Assessment are available Members of the Banagher/Kilcormac PCT with Senator Pat Moylan, rural area. There are 16 electoral divisions in the Shillelagh rural from the PCT Centre – Tel: 057 864 5038 Cathaoirleach Seanad Éireann (back left) at the recent launch area which include Carnew, Shillelagh and Tinahely. • 8,700 in Banagher/Kilcormac – covering the areas of Banagher, Kilcormac, Cloghan, Shannon Bridge and surrounding areas.

Professor Brendan Drumm, CEO of the HSE officially launched the Longford PCT, while Laverne McGuinness, National Director, PCCC, HSE launched the South Wicklow PCT and Senator Pat Moylan, Cathaoirleach Seanad Éireann, launched the Banagher/Kilcormac PCT. At each launch, leaflets were distributed which outlined the work of the PCT and the range of services available.

To access the leaflets, contact the following: Anne Naughton Pictured are members of the Wicklow PCT with Mary Harney, TD, (for Longford PCTs) – Tel: 086 172 7707; Elizabeth Doyle Minister for Health & Children and Laverne McGuinness, National (for Wicklow PCT) – Tel: 0404 684 00 and Carol McCann Director PCCC, at the recent launch (for Banagher/Kilcormac PCT) – Tel: 057 932 6049. Members of the Portarlington PCT at a multidisciplinary team meeting

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Australia Learns from Irish Project: Community Mothers oung mothers in South Australia will soon benefit from a new Community Y Mothers Programme – similar to the one set up in Ireland – following the visit of an Australian Minister to Ireland. Jennifer Rankine, MP and Minister for Families and Communities in South Australia, met community mothers in Ballymun and What Work Do Clondalkin during her visit to Dublin in December last. The Community Mothers Programme EHOs Do? is a home-visiting Programme whereby experienced mothers volunteer to provide any members of the public are still help and support to young families. Darina O’Flanagan (cenre) with members of the HPSC team at their Gardiner Street offices not aware of the important role The programme was set up 20 years ago M that Environmental Health Officers and now operates in 74 locations in the (EHOs) can play in their daily lives. Greater Dublin area. Some 1,200 families are Bearing this in mind, the EHO Service of the supported each year through home visits. HSE recently produced a series of education Speaking about the visit of the Australian HPSC Celebrates Decade leaflets to explain some aspects of their work in Minister, Brenda Molloy, Director of the order to raise awareness of the importance of Community Mothers Programme said: “The the service. visit went very well and the Minister and of Disease Surveillance A typical day for many people involves having her delegates were very impressed with the breakfast, followed by a shower, putting on programme and hope to set up something he HSE’s Health Protection Surveillance (CIDR), which gives real time information on make up, bringing a child to crèche, grabbing similar in Australia.” Centre (HPSC) was established 10 years disease and is a vast improvement on the old lunch in a deli and swimming in a local gym. T ago last November. The centre operates paper based systems – it means that action can The water we drink, the food we eat, the air a surveillance of infectious disease throughout be taken quickly to control outbreaks of infectious we breathe, the cosmetics we use, the noises we the country. disease. I’m proud to say that, internationally, we hear and, even the crèche our children attend, The centre was established largely due to the are well ahead in terms of disease reporting and are just a few of the areas in our daily lives that vision of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr deputations from around the world have come are monitored or inspected by EHOs. Jim Kiely, and members of the Royal College of to Ireland to study our system. EHOs also highlight areas of risk to public Physicians. They were fully supported by the eight “Over the last 10 years, I have lost count of the health that are not regulated but which, in their health board CEOs around the country. number of people we have trained in epidemiology opinion, require control. Some of these include Prior to the establishment of the HPSC, through the European Programme for Intervention tanning facilities, gyms, leisure centres and infectious disease surveillance in Ireland was Epidemiology Training (EPIET), the Faculty of tattoo and body piercing parlours. the responsibility of the Department of Health. Public Health Medicine Training programme The hope is that these new leaflets will and our week long intervention epidemiology highlight the positive work undertaken by Achievements to Date courses, run in conjunction with Epiconcept. the HSE in a preventative health role and will Dr Darina O’Flanagan, HPSC Director, “HPSC has also forged close links with sister encourage the public to bring their concerns to comments on this milestone and the success organisations in Europe and around the world Jennifer Rankine, Australian MP (back row second the attention of their local EHO. from left) pictured with (back row (L to R) Ann of the HPSC to date: “To meet the challenges and maintains close contact with the new The leaflets cover food safety; tobacco, Savage, Family Development Nurse (FDN), Brenda of developing and strengthening surveillance, European Centre for Disease Prevention and infection and pest control and cosmetic Molloy, Director of Community Mothers Programme, surveillance scientists were appointed at our Control which was founded in 2005, and also Bernie Rooney (FDN) and Ann O’Neill (FDN). Front products. They are available from your local row (L to R): Denise Hannon, Mary Cooney and centre, in the Departments of Public Health, with WHO Europe. It is impossible to overstate Environmental Health Office or via www.hse.ie Pauline Byrne – all Community Mothers and in laboratories. These scientists have the importance of international cooperation in contributed significantly to the progress made the fight against infectious diseases. over the past ten years.” She continues: “From the start, participation Information Campaigns in the European Antimicrobial Resistance “HPSC plays a crucial role in getting information Children’s Services: Surveillance System (EARSS) was a priority about communicable disease to the public and we took part as soon as the programme and has been involved in many information got up and running in January 1999. Initially, campaigns, from childhood immunisations to Helping Disadvantaged Young People there were just 12 Irish laboratories taking part. dealing with the threats posed by the likes of recently established initiative has been set up to test models of best practice which We currently have 44 laboratories contributing bird flu and SARS. Our website (www.hpsc. promote integrated, locally led, strategic planning for Children’s Services. As part of the to EARSS, providing some of the most ie) continues to be one of our most important A initiative, Children’s Services Committees are being set up under the social partnership comprehensive data on microbial resistance communications tools. It contains a wide range agreement, ‘Towards 2016’ and the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs available anywhere in Europe.” of information, including all reports published (OMC&YA). This initiative is mandated at a policy level in the ‘Agenda for Children’s Services: A “One of the most important tasks was to by the centre; weekly, quarterly and annual Policy Handbook (2007)’, published by the OMC&YA. set up a multi-disciplinary scientific advisory communicable disease statistics; disease specific The initiative aims to secure better outcomes for disadvantaged children through more effective committee to provide expert advice. This factsheets; press releases and other information. integration of existing services at a local level; and intervene early in children’s lives to avert them committee has had a major input into the “New challenges continue to emerge. For succumbing to the risks associated with disadvantage, as well as giving them the resilience to improvement of disease surveillance and example, we are working at improving our overcome those risks. management in Ireland. It has been responsible surveillance of hospital acquired infection and Children’s Services Committees have, to date, been established in four local authority areas for publishing expert advice in areas such as collaborating with other departments in the nationwide – Dublin City, South County Dublin, Donegal and Limerick. legionnaires’ disease, sexually transmitted HSE, such as the Emergency Preparedness The HSE has a lead role in driving this initiative, which involves partnership with all of the other infections, norovirus, cryptosporidiosis and, Team, so that we can prepare together for new, government departments and agencies with a remit to provide services to children and families. more recently, Clostridium difficile infection. The emerging diseases and the possibility of future Members of the Committee are currently working through what all of the local providers of Children’s voluntary input of members has made a massive pandemics such as pandemic influenza. Services can do individually and collectively in a linked, coordinated and fully integrated way to contribution to public health in Ireland. “The cornerstone of our success over the last improve educational and health outcomes for children in the Dublin city target area. The OMC&YA are “Good, timely information is vital so that 10 years has been our staff, who have worked considering setting up additional Children’s Services Committees in different parts of the country in 2009. the right actions are taken to improve the tirelessly and with great flexibility, in what is a everyday health of people living in Ireland. One challenging, but hopefully, rewarding workplace. For further information, please contact: Dr Aisling Gillen, Specialist National Planning Children’s of HPSC’s biggest successes has been the To all of those who have worked with us, both Services, Office of the CEO. Tel: 071 982 2776 or Mob: 087 222 2830. design, implementation and management of inside and outside of HPSC, over the last decade Computerised Infectious Disease Reporting – thank you. Here’s to the next 10 years!”

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Supported Employment Services Help Boost Self Esteem

upported Employment Services plays a crucial role in are futile unless we all work together. The Job Match is key to helping to build the self esteem of those suffering from success. Novel and innovative approaches to finding suitable S mental health issues by offering them employment. work requires true ‘outside-the-box’ thinking. The staff who work in this area have an important influence on “To be successful, Supported Employment agencies, the service users – they don’t dwell on the concept of disability, such as Menni, need the support of all stakeholders – service instead they highlight ‘abilities’. The staff advocate that each of us users, service providers, their families, friends and employers can uniquely contribute something to society. – to find or carve out new opportunities in the open market. “For some time now, the Supported Employment model has We are now asking the public for leads and networking been developing long lasting opportunities for people of varying opportunities. If you hear of something that may be suitable, abilities to access mainstream employment,” says Des Balmer, simply let us know. Coordinator of Menni Supported Employment in Bluebell, Dublin “All we want is a chance to offer our service and find suitable 12. He continues: “The important concept is support. The right jobs for our service users. You may hear something at the Keith Whelan (above) and Jenny Birmingham (below) have both linked support, at the right time, can make all the difference between weekend in your local golf club, or at a GAA match. You may have up with the St John of God Employment Services success and failure in all walks of life. a brother or sister who owns a café and may have something for “People who use the St John of God Supported Employment us. It’s this little nugget of information that we may not be privy to Services work in a variety of areas including warehousing, that, if passed on to us, or another Supported Employment agency, kitchens, hotels, retail outlets, offices and gardening. No industry could be invaluable.” is excluded and the companies included go from the world’s Menni Supported Employment Services covers a geographical leading brands, such as McDonald’s, Burger King and Hilton area of west and south-west Dublin and are complimented by Hotel to local, family based businesses such as Pinheads Pizza, work at St Michaels’s House and the FAS consortia, among others. Schorman Cleaning and Centra. These companies all afford equal and valuable opportunities to people with different abilities via To contact Menni Supported Employment, please send an email to: Supported Employment. [email protected] or call Des Balmer on “Employment Support Specialists, sometimes called ‘Job Mob: 087 244 9083. Further information on supported employment Coaches’, work hard at finding job matches for service users, is available the Irish Association of Supported Employment however, all our expertise, hard work and even good fortune (www.iase.ie), or from your local FAS office. Therapy Project Booklet Aims to Improve Patient Medication Safety new booklet has been launched which is aimed at detailed information about the purpose and effects of their encouraging people to play an active role in their medicines are more likely to take them as recommended, Office Publish A medication management. Entitled, Let’s Talk Medication leading to better health outcomes. Many errors could be Safety , the booklet was officially launched in November by actress avoided if communication between the patient and the Dawn Bradfield who plays Cara in the RTE series, The Clinic. healthcare provider was improved and if patients were New Report The research carried out before the booklet was launched encouraged to speak up when unexplained changes occur was initiated by the Irish Society for Quality and Safety in with their medication. new report on Clinical Placement Provision activities Healthcare (ISQSH), in conjunction with the Mid-Western Let’s Talk Medication Safety was developed between June A for occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech & Regional Hospital, Ennis and the Health Research Board. 2007 and September 2008. Patients, the public and healthcare language therapy has been published. Let’s Talk Medication Safety builds on the document, Let’s providers were involved in all stages of its development. This The summary report was prepared by the Therapy Project Office Talk, which was launched by ISQSH in 2004. The success of Let’s project demonstrated the success of using both the service for the National Implementation Group (NIG), established by Talk highlighted the increased interest the general public have providers and users when producing educational material for the Department of Health and Children and the HSE to progress in becoming more involved in the management of their health. patients. The booklet has been distributed to every pharmacy and initiate project activities in this area. The report is available The aim of the publications is to encourage people to become in Ireland and ISQSH hope to distribute it to all hospitals and from Tina Deane, Professional Education, Health and Social Care actively involved in their own healthcare for better and safer Primary Care Units within the country over the coming months. Professionals at: [email protected]. practice. The following series of documents have also been published in The most recent booklet provides the public with information, Further information is available from the ISQSH website at relation to this project and are available on www.hseland.ie or on advice, and tips on medication safety. Patients who have www.isqsh.ie. the relevant professional body websites: • Guidelines for Good Practice in Practice Education; • Practice Educator Competencies; • Individual CPD Planning Tool; • Departmental CPD Planning Tool; • Speech & Language Therapy Competencies; • Physiotherapy Competencies; • Occupational Therapy Competencies; • Guidelines for Professional Information Leaflets.

The projects relate to a number of key actions identified by ‘The Report of the National Planning Group on Clinical Placement Provision for Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Speech and Language Therapy’ (2004), under the three broad areas of: Practice Education; Continuing Professional Development and Quality Information for the Public. The Therapy Project Office was funded by the HSE and was staffed by three project managers, representing the Professional Bodies of the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland (AOTI), the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP) and the Irish Association of Speech & Language Therapists (IASLT). The Project Managers worked in partnership with the HSE, the Higher Education Institutes, Therapy Services and the Department of Health & Children and to build on existing work and to progress the projects.

For more information, please contact: Professional Education, Health and Social Care Professionals, HR Directorate, Merlin Park Pictured at the launch were (L to R): Dr Hilary Dunne (ISQSH), Marie Kehoe (Past President ISQSH) and actress Dawn Bradfield who plays Cara in the RTE drama series The Clinic Galway. Tel: 091 775 861/862.

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Staff Train Nurses/Midwives More Nurses and Midwives in Dementia Play Key Role in To Train in Venepuncture Care Sexual Assault Examinations /IV Cannulation

he National Council for the ight nurses and midwives an important achievement for the very year, thousands Professional Development have become the first group to students and all concerned with of patients undergo T of Nursing and Midwifery E successfully complete a Higher the development, implementation E venepuncture and has funded a three year project Diploma in Nursing (Sexual Assault and successful completion of the intravenous (IV) cannulation in for the development and Forensic Examination). first programme and I extend my different healthcare settings, implementation of an educational These nurses/midwives will congratulations and best wishes to with venepuncture identified programme for staff on caring for undertake the clinical forensic all concerned.” as the most common invasive people with dementia in acute, examination of victims of sexual In 2006, a National Review of Sexual procedure in hospitals residential and community care violence in Sexual Assault Treatment Assault Treatment services in Ireland – figures show that up to 80 settings. Units (SATUs), as well as providing identified gaps and variations in per cent of patients admitted to Dementia is a progressive much needed holistic care. This will service provision and care across the hospital receive IV therapy. condition that has a huge impact be of great benefit to people who country for victims of rape and sexual The Office of the Nursing on the physical, psychological and find themselves facing the trauma assault. As part of its deliberations, the Services Director supports emotional state of the individual associated with sexual assault and review recommended the introduction the development and effective and their family. In Ireland, there violence. of a “Pilot Programme in Forensic utilisation of nurses and are currently more than 35,000 The nurses/midwives who Nursing where nurses undergo a midwives skills, in order to assist people with dementia. The vast completed the programme will Higher Diploma in order to qualify as patients to avail of treatments majority of these people are over work in existing SATUs in Dublin, a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Forensic in a healthcare setting most 65 years of age. Cork, Letterkenny and Waterford Nursing”. suitable to their needs. People with dementia come and will also be available to work in The pilot programme was a With this aim in mind, the HSE Office of the Nursing Services Director into contact with care staff at all the two new units which are under collaborative venture between the administered a national survey in 2008 to quantify the number of nurses stages of their illness. Training development in Mullingar and Galway. Department of Health & Children, and midwives in acute hospitals who received education and training on and education of staff in caring for The programme equips the the Office of the Nursing Services venepuncture and IV cannulation, and the numbers who then use these people with dementia is essential nurses and midwives with the Director, HSE, the Royal College of skills in the course of their duties. The survey was carried out in response to develop the skills that are knowledge, skills and competence Surgeons in Ireland and the Rotunda to a request from the Nursing and Midwifery Expert Group – European necessary to provide appropriate to carry out forensic clinical Hospital. The programme involved the Working Time Directive (EWTD). person-centred care. The concept examination in a systematic and cooperation of the Gardai, the wider The findings of the survey are now available in a report on: www.hse.ie. of person-centred care focuses objective manner, whilst caring criminal justice system and the many Presently, the Office of the Nursing Services Director in partnership on healthcare workers valuing the for the victim and recognising their organisations who provide support to with other stakeholders is actively involved in the implementation of the person with dementia as unique, physiological and psychological clients of the service. recommendations in the report, which support increasing the number of respecting their past and focusing trauma. The success of the programme nurses and midwives with clinical competence in venepuncture and IV on the capabilities of the person, The programme also provides would not have been possible without cannalation nationally. rather than the skills they have lost. the successful nurses and midwives the commitment and goodwill of many The national survey highlights that nurses and midwives with clinical The main aim of the project is to with the professional skills to people, but special thanks are due to competencies in venepuncture and IV cannulation can play an invaluable role address knowledge deficits among document, provide legal and other Bernadette Carpenter, Lecturer and in the clinical frontline setting, not only by supporting the implementation staff regarding caring for people reports and present their findings Course Coordinator, RCSI, Dr Mary of the EWTD, but also by promoting quality and continuity of care. with dementia and to facilitate the in the appropriate settings and Holohan, Medical Director/National creation of a caring and dignified context. Implementation and Review Group, Survey Results environment, where a person- Mary Harney, TD, Minister for Anne McHugh, Project Manager and Of the 24,416 nurses and midwives employed in 50 acute hospitals centred approach to dementia Health & Children, said: “This is Dr Anne Flood. within the Republic of Ireland (ROI), the survey identified that: care can be fostered. • 5,134 were educated and trained in venepuncture, and of these; The project will be managed by • 3,365 were competent in venepuncture, using these skills in the course Mary Manning who is attached to of their duties; the Nursing & Midwifery Planning • 4,028 received venepuncture education and training in acute hospitals; & Development Unit (NMPDU) Employment Success • 1,138 were international nurses and midwives who received based in Tullamore, Co Offaly. venepuncture education and training outside of ROI; A steering group, with • 4,625 were educated and trained in IV cannulation, and of these; representation from key for Newly Qualified Nurses • 2,295 were competent in IV cannulation, using these skills in the course stakeholders, is chaired by Patrick of their duties; Glackin, Director of the NMPDU, recent survey has shown that the majority of nurses who graduated • 3,540 received venepuncture education and training in acute hospitals; Tullamore, Dublin Mid-Leinster. in 2007 (after completing the BSc undergraduate education • 929 were international nurses and midwives who received venepuncture A programmes in general, psychiatric and intellectual disability education and training outside of ROI. If you would like further details about nursing) are now working as registered nurses and most found work within the project please contact, Mary one month of graduation. Currently, phase one of the ‘Project on Venepuncture and Peripheral Manning, Project Manager, NMPDU, The survey was conducted by the HSE Office of the Nursing Services Intravenous Cannulation Education Training and Competence Validation’ Unit 4, Clonminch, Tullamore, Co Director to gain a better understanding of employment trends and practice for nurses and midwives has resulted in an additional 1,800 nurses and Offaly. Tel: 086 380 8528; Email: issues of newly qualified nurses entering the workforce. midwives within primary, community and continuing care and acute [email protected]. The overall survey findings are encouraging and the survey response hospitals being trained in venepuncture and peripheral IV cannulation. rate was good, at 33 per cent (453). The plan is to repeat the survey in This training allows nurses and midwives, through enhanced clinical subsequent years to compare data and to identify trends over time. knowledge and practice, to undertake venepuncture and cannulation procedures in a range of healthcare settings, such as primary care, Survey Data Highlights outpatient units, community hospitals, nursing homes and acute hospitals. Almost every respondent (98 per cent) began initial employment as To support the provision of this therapy, a national e-learning a registered nurse after graduation and the majority (96 per cent) are programme will be available on www.hseland.ie this Spring. In addition, currently employed as a registered nurse. Some 65 per cent of a national policy and clinical practice guidelines to support best practice respondents reported that it took less than four weeks for them to in venepuncture and peripheral intravenous cannulation will be made obtain initial work as a nurse. available. Additional education and training programmes within the Centres Other findings show that: of Nursing/Midwifery/Children’s Nursing Education will be available • 92% report work hours of 39 hours or more per week; throughout the year to support the increased demand. • 62% are employed in the public health sector • 75% are employed in hospitals; For further information, please contact your local Centre for Nurse/ Mary Manning, Project Manager • 90% say that they received sufficient orientation. Midwifery/Children’s Nurse Education or email: [email protected]

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Launch of Guiding Framework RNP Demonstrates For Nurse and Midwife Prescribing Nurse Prescribing

he Guiding Framework for the Implementation of Nurse and Midwife Prescribing in Ireland was formally launched in Benefits on RTÉ News T December 2008 in the National Maternity Hospital, Holles he benefits of nurse Street, Dublin. The Framework was launched by Bernard Carey, prescribing for patients Assistant Secretary, Department of Health and Children; Liam T were highlighted on RTÉ Doran, General Secretary, Irish Nurses Organisation and Dr Siobhán recently by Mary Ryder, Registered O’Halloran, HSE Nursing Services Director, HR Directorate. All three Nurse Prescriber of the Heart also attended the final meeting of the Resource and Implementation Failure Clinic at St Vincent’s Group on Nurse and Midwife Prescribing. Marking the occasion, University Hospital in Dublin. Mr Carey said: “There is a sense of adventure about today – there is Mary was interviewed in something exciting about seeing a strategy taking life in practice. I December for RTÉ’s Six-One and suppose this really depicts the journey of transformation that enables Nine O’Clock News. people to move from the current situation to a desired future.” “Being able to prescribe specific Pictured (L to R): Liam Doran, General Secretary, INO, Dr Siobhán Pictured (L to R): Maureen The Group was also congratulated on its achievements which O’Halloran, HSE Nursing Services Director, HR Directorate and medications related to my speciality Flynn, Assistant Director of were a real illustration of partnership in action involving stakeholders Bernard Carey, Assistant Secretary, Department of Health & of heart failure has completed Nursing, HSE Office of the working closely with the nursing unions in making nurse and midwife Children at the formal launch of the Guiding Framework for the my role as an Advanced Nurse Nursing Service Director, HR Implementation of Nurse and Midwife Prescribing in Ireland Directorate and Mary Ryder, medicinal product prescribing a reality. Practitioner (ANP),” Mary told RTÉ. ANP (Heart Failure), St “I am working in this specialism for Vincent’s University Hospital 10 years and have advanced my nursing skills to the level of ANP in that time. I have been able Mental Health Nurse Attains Prescriber Status to achieve this with the support, training and supervision by the Consultant Cardiologist, Professor Ken McDonald.” erard Roache, Staff Nurse at Commenting on the development, She continued: “In a chronic disease area, such as heart Sligo/Leitrim Mental Health Patrick Benson, Director of Nursing failure, the nurse is the constant link for the patient to the G Service, became the first said: “The experience of this initiative multidisciplinary team that provides overall holistic care Mental Health Nurse in Ireland to attain has demonstrated the benefits of for patients attending the service. Doctors have to move Registered Nurse Prescriber (RNP) status collaborative team-working, and the departments frequently throughout their training and change when he completed his registration in involvement of all the stakeholders has frequently in the Heart Failure Unit. As a highly experienced and January. Gerard completed the Certificate ensured the successful implementation skilled nurse in my area, I can now complete many of the patients’ in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife Prescribing) of nurse medicinal product prescribing in visits when I see them, either in the Heart Failure Unit or at their in November 2008. Sligo Mental Health Service. This will be home. In 2008 I visited 104 patients in their own home.” The initiative was supported by of great benefit to patients of the service, Mary told the audience that heart failure patients have Clinical Director, Dr Fidelma Flynn, who and our plan is that many more of our responded very positively to her expanded role: “I have explained undertook the role of Collaborating Gerard Roache, RNP in Mental Health, Dr Fidelma nursing staff will undertake this valuable to my patients, following clinical examination, that I am now in Flynn, Clinical Director and Collaborating Medical Medical Practitioner, and Patrick Benson, Practitioner, and Patrick Benson, Director of training in the future.” a position to write the prescription if it is a medication from my Director of Nursing, who supported and Nursing/Nurse Prescribing Site Coordinator Describing the initiative, Dr Fidelma selected list. The first responses were: ‘You know me and my facilitated Gerard’s completion of the Flynn, Clinical Director said: “I would condition better than the doctors here today so I’m delighted you Nurse/Midwife Prescribing course at Collaborative Practice Agreement, see this development enhancing the role can write the prescription’. Other patients comments have been: the Royal College of Surgeons School of (CPA) with the assistance of Michelle and profile of nursing, and believe that, “It’s about time they let you do that” and “It’s great I don’t have to Nursing. Corcoran, Pharmacist. Prescriptions will as it develops, nurse medicinal product wait around for a doctor”. Gerard works at the Mental Health be short term, for a maximum of three prescribing will make a key contribution During the news item, Maureen Flynn, Assistant Director of Centre at Markievicz House in Sligo days, allowing patients to present for to the assessment and treatment of Nursing, Dublin Mid Leinster, also described how successful town, which provides a multidisciplinary, medical review/discussion with the GP or patients. I envisage this service extending nurse and midwife prescribing is in helping to achieve the HSE’s comprehensive community adult multidisciplinary team within that time. to further support the postgraduate aim of enhancing the efficiency and responsiveness of the mental health service, offering acute The development was also supported training of nurses. This is particularly service for patients. She highlighted the difference nurse and day hospital, domiciliary visiting, and by the service’s own Drugs and relevant and important to patients and midwife prescribing can make to: “Visits to hospitals, emergency outpatient services. It is envisaged that Therapeutics Committee, which assisted to our service, allowing us to provide departments, clinics and patients’ homes, where the nurse or Gerard will provide prescriptions to in defining the scope of the initiative and care through home based treatment and midwife can undertake your assessment, make a diagnosis, patients over 18 years of age who are developing the policy and guidelines primary care. I am grateful for the support develop a plan of care and prescribe the necessary medicinal current patients of the Sligo/Leitrim to support nurse medicinal product of nursing management locally and An products in one interaction”. Mental Health Service. prescribing. The introduction of nurse Bord Altranais in advancing the clinical In order to ensure quality of care, weekly multidisciplinary Medications will be prescribed and midwife prescribing was widely practice of nurses. I look forward to team meetings are held within the Heart Failure team, where following a comprehensive mental supported and welcomed as being continuing to working with Gerard in the Mary discusses her cases with the Consultants. A web-based health assessment. A comprehensive an important addition to the services future, and supporting the development database system, facilitated by the HSE, also enables her to send list of psychotropic drugs was agreed available to multidisciplinary teams and of nurse medicinal product prescribing reports to Professor McDonald regularly so that he can review between Gerard and Dr Flynn in their their patients. in the interests of our patients.” her prescribing practices.

Community Hospitals Introduce Nurse Prescribing number of nurses are now Registered Nurse Prescribers and demanding six-month education programme in University Commenting on the initiative, Dr Gleeson said: “We are (RNPs) in Primary Community and Continuing Care, College Cork in order to attain a prescribing role. delighted that prescriptive authority has been awarded to A with Care of the Older Persons Services (Castletownbere The nurses and community hospitals were supported by Clare Cathy Sheehan, CNM2 at St Joseph’s Community Hospital, and Macroom Community Hospitals) and Mental Health (Sligo MacGabhann, Assistant Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Office Castletownbere, Co Cork. Nurse Sheehan is an excellent nurse Mental Health Services) leading the way. of the Nursing Services Director, HR Directorate; the local Medical with many years of experience in practical patient care. The local The nurse and midwife medicinal product prescribing initiative Officers; the General Managers of the Local Health Offices; Local pharmacist Matt Murphy, attached to Macroom Community continues to evolve, with 58 nurses and midwives now registered Health Managers; university lecturers and, primarily, the Prescribing Hospital, also continues to offer his support for the initiative.” overall. The RNPs in Castletownbere and Macroom are now Site Coordinators, who were both Directors of Nursing in this instance. The nursing staff involved feel they are following the lead empowered to enhance patient care in their respective hospitals This initiative could not have proceeded without the support of already set in many countries (such as Australia, the USA and by being able to prescribe medications in a timely manner. the Medical Officers, Dr Colin Gleeson (attached to CBCH), Dr New Zealand) by having nurse prescribing in their Community The current RNPs, Bernadette Buckley CNM2 and Angela Sean Casey, Dr John Burke and Dr Ken Harte (attached to MCH). Hospitals. Nurse prescribing expands the team care approach Buckley, Staff Nurse (MCH) and Cathy Sheehan CNM2 Their enthusiastic approach to the role of mentor for the project adopted in Community Hospitals and can only enhance the (CBCH) undertook and successfully completed an intensive greatly contributed to its success. overall care provided to patients on a daily basis.

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Staff Hone Project Management Skills

From back row (L to R) down: Eddie Ward, Project Manager Population Health; Liam Dillion, President PMI; Sean McGrath, National Director of HR; Lisa Mullins, PCCC Project Office; Liz Scully, PCCC DML; Eileen O’Dea, PCCC TDO Dublin South City; Roisin Egerton, PCCC TDO Carlow/Kilkenny; Patrick Lynch, Asst National Director, NPMO; Monica Flood, MD, OLASIT; Martina Curran, NHO; Sarah McCormack, NPMO, Deirdre Mullins, PCCC Project Office, West

ome 20 HSE staff members who completed an accredited Management of Projects course received certificates at a ceremony last December. S The HSE is committed to delivering safe, quality services while continuing to meet its objectives of strengthening primary care, ensuring hospitals are organised appropriately to deliver the most effective services and building greater links between primary and secondary care services. To support these objectives, a number of training courses were developed and delivered in 2008 for staff involved in managing projects. The course content Pictured at the launch were (LtoR): Brian Mullen, Principal Officer, Health Promotion Policy, Department of Health & Children; Dr was developed in conjunction with, and accredited by, the Project Management Paula Carroll, Waterford Institute of Technology (Author); Mary Wallace, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health & Children; Institute of Ireland. This accreditation is internationally recognised. Biddy O’Niell, HSE and Dr Noel Richardson, Institute of Technology, Carlow (Author) The course covers all the general principles of good project management, focusing specifically on the way the HSE wants to deliver change. It incorporates training on ‘Improving our services’, the HSE’s change guide published in 2008. On completing the course, participants felt they had a better understanding of Launch of First Ever what project management is about. The course also provided practical tools and skills for managing change. Speaking at the awards ceremony, Sean McGrath, the National Director for National Men’s HR, referred to the growing demand for effective project management. He acknowledged that achieving change, as well as cost efficiencies, requires the type of structured approaches offered by project management. He added that skilled Project Managers are needed within the HSE and that good project management Health Policy skills will be required for the implementation of the Integrated Services Programme.

n Ireland, male life expectancy consultation process. The main focus is almost five years lower than of the policy is to highlight the need Footballers Enjoy a Special Day with Soccer Stars Ifemale’s and men experience for a specific focus on men as service higher death rates – for all leading users with particular needs. t was a damp, miserable morning, something worthwhile that brought enjoyable game of soccer, which causes of death – than their female Brian Neeson, the HSE but some cheer was brought to about the birth of the After School diplomatically ended in a 2-2 draw, counterparts. representative on the Steering Group I the Toghermore Training Centre Soccer Programme (ASSP). I could with the final equalising goal being In the light of these statistics, the behind the policy commented: in Galway recently when Eric Lavine see the need for a programme that a moment of beauty reminiscent first ever ‘National Men’s Health Policy “This Men’s Health Policy has been and Nigel Keady (both former Galway provides players of all abilities, of Diego Maradona’s goal against 2008-2013’ was published in January developed following an extensive United players) carried out a soccer including people with learning England in the ‘86 World Cup! with the aim of promoting optimum research and consultation process. training session for clients from and physical disabilities, with the Speaking after the training health and wellbeing for all men in The recommendations and actions the Toghermore, Creagh, Loughrea opportunity to develop their soccer session, Terence said: “The ASSP is Ireland, while integrating a health provide a blueprint for tackling men’s Training Centre of Ballinasloe. skills and also to have fun doing it.” a tremendous success on a number promotion and preventative approach health in this country in the years The Training Centre provides support Terence Flynn, an instructor in the of levels; as it promotes integration in the delivery of services. ahead.” to people with disabilities – namely, Training Centre, contacted Eric and among different sections of the The new policy addresses the He added that the policy is a Rehabilitative Training and Sheltered Nigel to carry out a football training community and it encourages different challenges that men face in significant and important step in Work programmes, as well as other session as part of a Special Olympics clients to keep fit.” The ASSP managing their health, and provides a promoting optimum health and employment projects. football programme. The day featured currently conducts sessions in blueprint to service providers across a wellbeing for Irish men and said the Describing why he got involved 22 soccer players being put through Athenry and Westside and also now number of sectors to support men to policy’s recommendations would in the project, Eric, who is also a their paces by the two coaches as boasts a new training resource for take increased responsibility for their be implemented within existing former Barbados International player, part of the ASSP. players and coaches at: own health. resources. said: “It was the desire to be doing The session culminated in an www.afterschoolsoccer.com In recent years, there has been a Dr Noel Richardson, co-author of growing awareness of the burden of the policy, added: “The launch of the ill-health experienced by many men National Men’s Health Policy is in Ireland. The burden of ill-health a landmark development in and mortality is borne, in particular, responding to the need for a by men from lower socio-economic gender-specific approach to tackling groups. These men are up to six men’s health. The comprehensive times more likely to die from the and holistic approach that the policy leading causes of death than men adopts will be a hugely important from the highest socio-economic resource to all those working in the group. area of men’s health. It provides a The policy, developed by the focused and targeted plan of action Department of Health and Children, to support men to take increased in conjunction with the HSE and responsibility for their own health. other interested parties, was Its publication is particularly timely established following an extensive in light of the current difficult period of research and a nationwide economic climate.” Clients with former League of Ireland Players Eric Lavine & Nigel Keady with Terence Flynn, Training Instructor at Toghermore Training Centre

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New Telephone Service Supports Reducing Anxiety Among Older People in Mayo Paediatric Dental Patients

he ‘Good Morning Claremorris’ service, established any of us are familiar with gas and air sedation, using the effects rapidly reversing when the nitrous oxide is turned by Clar IRD (a group who coordinate and promote nitrous oxide, through its use in maternity services off and 100 per cent oxygen is administered. T the social, economic and cultural development of M where its properties of easing anxiety and pain relief At the end of the appointment, patients are given a Claremorris and surrounding areas), in association with can be beneficial during childbirth. certificate for doing well. As the child remains conscious ‘Befriending Mayo’ , was officially launched in November at But now it is believed that these benefits can also be used in throughout, they often progress from being a nervous patient the Clar IRD offices in Claremorris. children’s dentistry using a nosepiece, which leaves the mouth to one who is able to cope with dental treatment in the normal ‘Good Morning Claremorris’ is a ‘befriending’ telephone unobstructed, allowing its relaxing effect to make treatment less manner. service for older people in the community who live alone or daunting for nervous children. It is estimated that 35 per cent of Although inhalational sedation is not suitable for all who feel lonely or isolated. US dentists use this technique. treatments on all patients, it remains an invaluable tool in The service consists of trained volunteers making phone In 2008, a new inhalational sedation (relative analgesia) paediatric dentistry to alleviate anxiety whilst remaining calls to older people on a regular basis. The Claremorris service was set up in Roscommon. As part of this move, Eileen relatively non-invasive and cost effective. service is the second strand of the ‘Befriending Mayo’ Goldrick, Dental Nurse, underwent training at the Dublin Dental initiative to be launched in Co Mayo - including the Castlebar Hospital on a course organised by Professor June Nunn. Voluntary Social Services (VSS), which offers the same service Keith Finn, Senior Dental Surgeon, Special Needs, was also to older people in the greater Castlebar area. appointed in April 2008 having previously held senior positions Mayo has a high population of older people (14 per cent), in Special Care Dentistry in the UK for five years. He brings many of whom are living happy and fulfilled lives. However, extensive experience in the technique with over a thousand many are lonely, socially isolated and lack human contact. The completed cases since 1998. ‘Befriending Mayo’ service is aimed at reaching out to those in Children referred are assessed at the initial appointment and, need, and was set up to help voluntary and community groups if suitable, the level of sedation needed to provide treatment is to respond to these people. established. Earlier this year, staff in HSE West’s Mayo Primary The patients are monitored using a pulse oximeter and Community & Continuing Care brought together a large clinical observation during all sedation sessions. At subsequent number of concerned voluntary and community groups. appointments, when the patient is relaxed and sedated, while As a consequence of this meeting, it was decided to build remaining conscious and communicative at all times, a network of befriending projects across Co Mayo, and a treatment proceeds in a similar manner to a regular committee was established to develop this initiative. The appointment. Local anaesthetic is used for the extraction committee includes representation from community and and filling of teeth. voluntary groups, including HSE West, County Development During the process, the patient receives verbal reassurance Board, Clar IRD, South West Mayo Development Company, from the Dental Team – the suggestion of pleasant thoughts Gardaí, Cairde le Cheile and has become the ‘Befriending and feelings and lots of praise. Recovery is remarkably fast, with Keith Finn, Senior Dental Surgeon and Eileen Goldrick, Dental Nurse, Mayo’ Development group. with patient Brian Walsh during a sedation appointment in Roscommon

Jigsaw Programme for Young People Opens in Galway

new mental health service first opened its doors to young people in Galway city in January. Jigsaw Galway is part A of a national programme which aims to provide more accessible and responsive services to young people aged 15-25 with emerging mental health problems. As the first of its kind for young people in Ireland, Jigsaw Galway is a new, innovative approach to organising services and supports that enhance the mental health and wellbeing of young people. It is designed to promote services that are more accessible, youth-friendly, integrated, and engaging for young people. The Jigsaw Model has been developed on the basis of extensive research and consultation with young people, service providers, families and communities throughout Galway. Young people have been directly involved in the planning, design and management of the initiative. Commenting on the initiative, John Fitzmaurice, Programme Manager for Jigsaw Galway, said: “This is a new and unique service for the young people of Galway which aims to intervene early when a young person may be in crisis. Services like this are critical in being able to reduce our unacceptably high rates of youth suicide. “The key purpose of our base in Mary Street is to ensure that when young people seek help, they get an immediate response from one of the workers who, in partnership with the young person, will work out what supports they may need – be it a GP, a counsellor or support worker who already has a good rapport with the young person.” Jigsaw Galway is a partnership between Headstrong (The National Centre for Youth Mental Health), the HSE (Galway John McGettrick, Chairman, Mental Health Ireland; John Fitzmaurice, Programme Manager, Jigsaw Galway; Tony Bates, CEO, Headstrong; Ted Tierney, PCCC) and Mental Health Ireland (MHI). Deputy CEO, Mental Health Ireland; Priya Prendergast, HSE, Local Health Manager, Galway

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Mental Health Monaghan Schools Enjoy Services Launch New Healthy Eating Policy Information Healthy Eating Policy school children as one group to gave information on the Booklet was launched recently be given special priority during subjects of: school health A throughout four Co the planning and delivery of promotion; nutrition; physical new Information Booklet, ‘What you Monaghan National Schools. programmes and initiatives activity and oral health. Pictured (back row, far left): Jackie Mulligan, Family need to know about the Cavan/ The aim is to make the healthy for good health throughout The Healthy Eating Policy Support Worker with the Transition Year Students Monaghan Mental Health Service’ choice the easier choice, so as life. This has resulted in a initiative is part of a roll-out of from Trinity Comprehensive School and Catherine A Smith, Family Support Worker (back row, far right) was launched by Minister John Moloney, to improve the overall health concentrated targeting of the HSE’s ‘Health Promoting TD, Minister for Equality, Disability and of children, staff and the wider schools to promote healthy Primary Schools’ Programme. Mental Health at a recent ‘Open Day’ held community. eating habits and a healthy Currently 110 primary schools in the region. The Policy was developed body image among school- are involved in this programme Teens Talk The booklet provides information on how by the Dublin North East going children and young throughout the Dublin North to access the Cavan/Monaghan Mental Health Promotion Department people. East region. Sex: Peer-Led Health Service; what to ask about your in partnership with the Over 300 guests from each illness; care and treatment; medication Department of Education & of the school communities For further information, please and other therapies; where to get help; Science and representatives of attended the launch. contact Shirley Lynn, Health Education your rights when you use the service; the four schools. Certificates were presented Promotion Department, vidence suggests that young people can information on each of the teams and other The Health Promotion to each of the participating HSE Dublin North East. be very effective in providing advice, services that provide treatment under the Department has identified schools while guest speakers Tel: 046 907 6407. E support and information to each other mental health services umbrella. in the sensitive area of sex education. They can The booklet, developed by the Cavan/ also help to make the sessions fun and less Monaghan Mental Health Service in embarrassing for their peers. consultation with service users and their With this in mind, Geraldstown House, advocates, also provides information on a Family Resource Centre that provides other agencies and non governmental support to families in the Ballymun area, went organisations which provide support to about establishing a peer-led sex education people with mental health difficulties. programme. Jackie Mulligan and Catherine At the Mental Health Services Open Smith, Family Support Workers, have been Day, members of each of the specialist working with groups of Transition Year Students multi-disciplinary teams also provided from Trinity Comprehensive School to train them information on promoting mental health, to deliver the programme of relationships and when and how to access the mental health sex education to younger students. services and the type of care, treatment The Peer Support Project is in its third year and and therapies that are available. young people have been involved in its design and delivery each year. Jackie and Catherine The new information booklet will be given work with local professionals from the Sexual directly to all service users and advocates. Health Clinic and Youth Action Project to help For further information, please contact break down barriers for young people. Last year, Margaret Caulfield, Administrator, the groups were involved in designing teen- Cavan/Monaghan Mental Health Services. friendly publicity for the Sexual Health Clinic in Tel: 047 77 400. Ballymun. The Peer Support Project has given young people opportunities to explore issues affecting them and their peers, and to develop confidence and communication skills. The programme covers subjects such as: minding Pictured (L to R): Mary Rattigan, Member of the Environmental Health Team, presenting a cheque for `2,667 to Kate Hartley from AWARE (the national voluntary organisation that provides support to those suffering yourself; stress management; drugs and alcohol from depression). The money was raised in 2008 by the Dublin City EHOs based in Ormond House by holding use and bullying and sexual health. events throughout the year which included a Mad Hatter Competition, Bonny Baby Photo Competition, Book Interactive methods are used to deliver Sale, Cake Sale, Mini Marathon and a Charity 40th Birthday Party sessions such as games, arts activities, question and answer sessions, group discussion and role play. One element of the programme IPCT Hold Antibiotic is discussing coping skills and visits to ‘The Sanctuary’, a centre for relaxation and meditation, Awareness Campaign which have been very enjoyable for the young people involved. Geraldstown House also offers Pictured Back Row: (L to R) Dr Rory O’Hanlon, n awareness campaign was recently hosted by the Infection Prevention and Control Team sessions for parents of teenagers to discuss sex TD, Tom McNamara, Chairperson Consumer Involvement Group (CIG); Paul McFaul, Advocate; (IPCT) in the Cavan and Monaghan Hospital Group. At the awareness day, the public were and relationships with their children. The ‘Talking Teresa Duffy, CIG; Martin McMahon, Director A encouraged to participate in information discussions and complete a fun crossword About The Talk’ sessions are offered to parents of Nursing; Margaret Conlon, TD; Dr Rachael on antibiotics. Other infection prevention stands were available and there was an opportunity of students and to the wider community. Cullivan, CIG and Caoimhghin O’Caolain, TD. Front Row (L to R): Una Forde, CIG; Minister John to meet the Infection Prevention and Control Nurses to receive hand hygiene training and Moloney and Alice O’Neill, CIG education on preventing the Winter Vomiting Bug (Norovirus) from spreading. For further information, please contact Jackie Mulligan or Catherine Smith. Tel: 01 842 2544/2408. Nursing Library in Connolly Hospital Goes Online he nursing library located in the converted to electronic form and are the library. The catalogue now allows Service, Dr Steevens’ Hospital; available via inter library loan to all Academic Centre of Connolly available as part of the integrated readers to search the contents of the • HSE Corporate Library, nurses in Dublin, Wicklow and Kildare. T Hospital, Blanchardstown, catalogue provided by the Regional following libraries: Palmerstown; is already a valuable resource for Library at Dr Steeven’s Hospital. • Health Promotion Unit Library, Search the online catalogue via the nurses working in the hospital and in For the first time, readers can access • Connolly Hospital Nursing Library; Broomhill Road, Tallaght; internet (www.hselibrary.ie), or through the wider region. Over the course of the library outside of opening hours by • Connolly Hospital Medical Library; • St Colmcilles Library, Loughlinstown; the HSE Intranet (http://hsenet.hse. last summer, all the library’s books, checking the online catalogue to see • St Ita’s Hospital Library; • Naas Hospital Library ie/Library/Library Catalogues/HSE reports and journal records were what books and journals are held in • Regional Library & Information Books held in the nursing library are Dublin, Wicklow, Kildare).

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Breast Cancer Services Transfer to WRH

reast cancer services have recently have also been approved for WRH, namely a transferred from Wexford and St Luke’s consultant radiologist, with specialist interest B for Carlow/Kilkenny General Hospitals to in breast care; a consultant anaesthetist; an Waterford Regional Hospital (WRH). additional 0.5 surgeon post; 1.5 staff nurses; The initial clinical diagnostic and surgical 2 radiographers, 0.5 data manager and one management of new patients will now take place clerical officer. New equipment has also been at WRH – one of the eight designated centres purchased and the Out-Patients Department for cancer services under the National Cancer has been refurbished to accommodate the new Control Programme (NCCP). Those diagnosed service. with cancer will return to WRH for their surgery Speaking upon the agreement taking effect, but will continue to receive chemotherapy and Richard Dooley, HSE Network Manager, South follow-up care at Wexford or St Luke’s. East Hospital Group, said: “As advised to Approximately 50-60 women from counties patients and families presently concerned, this Carlow, Kilkenny and Wexford will be development is in the best interests of those referred weekly for clinical examination to from communities in the Wexford and Carlow/ the Symptomatic Breast Care Service in WRH Kilkenny areas needing to access this type of Cancer Centre. Of these, it is anticipated that no surgical service. In line with the national strategy more than 7–10 per cent will receive a positive on breast cancer treatment, this move has the full diagnosis of breast cancer. support of cancer care clinicians, as it aims to Initial clinical diagnostic and surgical management of new patients has transferred to WRH (above) Under funding from the NCCP, new posts ensure that best possible outcome for patients.”

Teenage Health Pack Tackles Information Gaps hree Cork groups are developing a health action resource pack for young people that will initially be made available to all secondary schools in Cork city and county. The pack will complement T the Social and Personal Health Education programme currently run in secondary schools and will include information on sexuality; indigenous populations; ethnicity; and disability, among others. The resource pack resulted from a very successful youth health symposium, organised by The Glen Health Action Zone (HAZ), HSE South; the Sports Studies and Physical Education Department of University College Cork (UCC) and the Glen Resource and Sports Centre. At the symposium, the three groups identified a need for more health information to be available to young people. Since the symposium, UCC students are also attending the Glen Resource and Sports Centre on work experience placements.

On-Line Requests Improve Maintenance Efficiency

computerised system staff to electronically enter “The success of the system for repairs and details of work required has been attributed to its A installations in Cork and report faults directly simplicity, the pre-launch University Hospital’s (CUH) to the Maintenance communication with staff, and Maintenance Department Department’s service the support that the system has proved very successful centre. The system was has received from the staff.” to date, with over 15,200 developed by the hospital’s The Maintenance electronic requests received IT Department. Department want to thank all The 15,000th work request was received from Aoife Moloney, Senior Physiotherapist in December 2008 for in its first year of operating. According to Engineering CUH staff for helping then to carpentry works. The Maintenance Department presented her with a floral tribute to mark the occasion. Pictured (L to R) Kevin Horan, Deputy Engineering Officer; John Mc Dermott, Engineering Officer; Aoife The system allows all hospital Officer, John McDermott: deliver this efficient service. Moloney, Physiotherapist; Willian Horgan, Foreman Carpenter and Tony Horgan, Carpenter

Man’s Best Friend Helps to Heal Helen Murphy

Pet Therapy emotional wellbeing of the petting and stroking), and – An Appreciation programme in place residents at the community communication. A at two community hospitals, especially for those Severely sick or depressed elen Murphy lost her courageous hospitals in Cork, designed who have pets at home and individuals may also show battle with breast cancer in June to provide social, mental and miss them. It has been shown increased awareness, H 2008, aged just 41. She was the physical stimulation to patients in many studies that animals attention span and interest in first clinical development coordinator at and long stay residents, is help to lift a person’s mood and the world around them. Mallow General Hospital. Helen worked proving to be a great success. work to distract, in that they Touching and interacting in the Intensive Care Units in Beaumont Molly, a Labrador, has give people something to focus with animals has also been Hospital and the Bons Secours Hospital, lived at Midleton Community on outside of themselves. shown to help lower a person’s Cork, before taking up her post in Mallow. Hospital for the last year and People who are sick, blood pressure and provide She was a consummate leader, visits all wards on a daily lonely, feeling down and even stress relief. Many studies organised, dedicated and caring. Helen basis. Similarly, Jenny, another depressed will often respond have shown that people with has left an indelible mark, not just on the labrador, visits Kanturk to an animal offering genuine pets also have longer life staff of Mallow General Hospital, but on Community Hospital with her affection and unconditional spans and suffer from less all who were privileged to have known Molly, the golden retriever who is the newest resident at Midleton Community Hospital with owner once a week. love. Responses might depression.The Pet Therapy her. resident Ellen McCarthy. Molly visits all wards on a Pet Therapy has shown include smiles, eye-contact, programme is funded by North daily basis and brings immense joy to the residents to improve the physical and physical touch (reaching out, Cork Adult Education Services. Ar Dheis De ar a anam dilis of the hospital

Heg^c\ '%%. =ZVai]bViiZgh P21 =ZVai]bViiZgh Update on Pensions Administration Transfer he administration of pension schemes Services provided include: for health service staff was formerly • Maintenance of the Registers of Pension T undertaken by the Department of Scheme membership (recording new hires Health and Children before being transferred and leavers); to the HSE in 2007. This was a significant • Calculation and authorisation of benefits undertaking which was a credit to all those (Lump Sum and Pension benefits at involved. retirement, Short Service Gratuity, Death Bernie Neary, Manager in the Pensions In Service Gratuity, Cost Neutral/Early Management Unit, described the Retirement, Preserved Benefits and demands, particularly in the training phase, Permanent Infirmity); as significant during the transfer process. She • Issuing estimates of benefits to members; explains: “People were away from home for a • Managing Family Law Cases (Implementing number of weeks. I would like to thank the Pension Adjustment Orders, Notice to staff in the Department of Health and Children Trustees and calculating Estimates for for their support as they trained us. It was a separation/divorce cases); big task to take over the scheme and ahead of • Costings of service calculations (billing for time too.” superannuation contributions on service Lto R: Odhran Allen, HSE Head of Consumer Affairs Mary Culliton, Noeleen Friel, Francis Spillane, Clare Duffy and Francis Haran, General Manager in not previously reckoned for superannuation Candavel Raman at the consultation exercise on the proposed Health Information Bill Pensions Management, described the transfer purposes); of services as a positive one, providing a good • Calculation of National Service and Transfer pattern for the future: “The success of the Values; VHSS and NHASS schemes takeover can • Implementation of Circular 23/2005 – revised Public Attend Consultative only augur well for the future consolidation of arrangements for current and former pension services in the HSE,” she commented. part-time public health service employees The HSE’s Pensions Management Unit is (affording part-time employees access to the Workshops on based in Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim and now pension scheme); provides pension administration services to • Maintenance of existing pensioner 50 voluntary hospitals and nominated health entitlements; Health Information Bill agencies throughout the country, with a • Ensuring compliance with legislation; combined membership of more than 35,000 • Production of an Annual Report for pension embers of the public recently encouraged by the approach taken by the employees. scheme members. attended consultative workshops Department of Health and Children and the M on the proposed Health Information HSE in holding this event. Our views are being Bill. The workshops were designed specifically actively sought and listened to, and I’m to ascertain the views of a cross-section of confident that those views will inform the Lily Does her bit for MSF individual citizens on what they see as the major consultation process associated with the Bill. issues for the Bill. This type of event helps break down the ‘us édecins Sans Organised by the Department of Health and them’ barrier.” Frontières’ (MSF) and Children, in cooperation with the HSE M was founded in and the Health Services National Partnership The main purposes of the Health 1971 as an international Forum (HSNPF), the project involved facilitated Information Bill will be: humanitarian aid agency. workshops with approximately 100 members • To provide clear legal rules to enable Lily Cummins, a Nurse of the public who were drawn from diverse information – in whatever form – to be used who works at Beaumont backgrounds, ages and interests. The Health to best effect to enhance medical care and Hospital, Dublin, worked with Information Bill will deal with the collection, patient safety throughout the health system; the agency on two different use, sharing, storage and disclosure of personal • To strengthen patient rights in relation to their occasions and has described health information, as well as the rights of information; the experience as ‘extremely individuals in relation to their health information. • To facilitate the greater use of information rewarding’. In June 2008 the Department advertised for technologies for better delivery of patient “I certainly feel that my submissions on the Health Information Bill and services, and clinical and teaching skills received over 60 from a wide range of bodies • To underpin an effective information have much improved from including hospitals, research and teaching governance structure for the health system working in these unique institutions, health professionals, consumer generally. and challenging situations,” bodies and government agencies. she says. Explaining why Commenting on the consultations, Mary Commenting on the purpose of the proposed she opted for two stints with Harney, TD, Minister for Health & Children Bill, the Minister said: “The Health Information the aid agency, the 45-year- said: “From the outset, we have recognised the Bill is an important and complex piece of old Carlow nurse said: “It importance of consulting widely on the Health legislation and a key element of the Health is something I’ve always Lily Cummins with National MSF Medical Staff in Zimbabwe Information Bill. Given the scope and nature Reform Programme. Its central objective is to been interested in, using my of the Bill, we considered it essential that we facilitate the more effective use of information medical skills to help people established, as fully as we could, the views of to improve healthcare outcomes while ensuring in great need and ultimately clinic in order to get their HIV could have up to 900 patients those who work in the health services and the that the privacy of personal health information saving lives.” treatment.” passing through the clinic public. Over the past several months, we have is appropriately respected. It affects everyone Lily spent 13 months with In 2008, she responded on a daily basis, which made done that through a series of measures.” as we all, over the course of our lives, access a MSF in Zimbabwe, where one again to an urgent call from for fairly hectic days. But the Mary Culliton, the HSE’s Head of Consumer range of health and personal social services.” in five people are affected MSF for aid workers in experience was extremely Affairs added: “The event was organised to do She added: “We rightly expect the information by HIV/AIDS. “In the MSF Ethiopia by spending over rewarding as I could see as we have promised to do – to listen to the we provide to those in the public, private and clinic in Gweru, we provided three months helping to the immediate effects of the views of the public in developing Policy and to voluntary health sectors to be used for legitimate free anti-retroviral treatment spearhead MSF’s emergency emergency treatment.” ask our citizens about the quality of the services purposes only and to be appropriately protected to people living with HIV. It nutritional campaign as a provided. Every effort has been made to consult from unauthorised access and disclosure. was always busy, with up nurse supervisor during If you are interested in working with a cross section of the public and people who Accordingly, the Bill will seek to build public to 100 people visiting each the alarming food crisis. with MSF, contact the MSF use health services, and this contribution will confidence in how the health services manage day. Many had to travel up Commenting on the Irish office.Tel: 01 660 3337; ensure the success of the Health Information Bill.” patient information both for individual patient to 50 km by foot to reach our experience, she said: “You Web: www.msf.ie Gina Plunkett, one of the participants who care and the achievement of wider health attended the consultative workshop said: “I’m system goals.”

P22 =ZVai]bViiZgh Heg^c\ '%%. Dublin Mid Leinster =ZVai]bViiZgh

Assesment Tools Reducing Injury to Benefit Mental to Care Time Health Services for Elderly he HSE Dublin Mid-Leinster this week launched a portfolio of Mental T Health Assessment Tools designed to Patients facilitate nurses to provide effective skills of assessment when caring within the mental s part of the constant drive to improve health setting. The portfolio was collated by services, the HSE has identified that HSE Mental Health Services in the Midlands A elderly patients – often females – who and sponsored by the Janssen Cilag suffer ‘broken hips’ or neck or femur fractures, Pharmaceutical Company. often as a result of a fall, could potentially The assessment portfolio, which is benefit from quicker access to definitive care presented in a book format and includes such as Orthopaedic Surgery. a set of 22 scales and questionnaires, In many cases where patients suffer such highlights the importance of individualised injuries, the patient is most often managed care planning as one of the key aspects of Pictured at the official launch of the HSE Practice Manager Manual and Practice Nurse Information Booklet, are by ambulance crews at the scene and holistic service delivery, as set out by the (from L to R): Philomena Treacy, Nicola O’Hara, Valerie Whelan – Primary Care Manager, Jennifer Courts, Rita transported to the nearest Emergency Dept. Lawlor – Professional Development Coordinator for Practice Nurses, Catherine McDermott, Dr Kieran Harkin Mental Health Commission (2005). and Mary Greevy – Primary Care Unit Office Manager for assessment and diagnosis. Where the It also describes the levels of support injury is confirmed, the patient is subsequently and treatment required in line with patient transferred to the appropriate hospital with needs and promotes continued professional on-site Orthopaedic Services. development. Resource Manuals Assist This initial assessment and diagnosis at the In addition to the portfolio, a three-day nearest hospital and subsequent secondary education package consisting of theory and transfer may add to the overall time from injury workshops was devised locally with support General Practices to definitive care – often surgery – for these from the Regional Centre for Nurse Education. patients. Approximately 60 nurses out of a cohort of 400 he HSE Dublin Mid–Leinster recently launched a Practice Manager’s Manual and Practice Over the last number of years, the have received training through the package last Nurse Information Booklet for General Practices. The publications are a guidance tool for Ambulance Service staff have undergone year. Further training will continue in 2009. It is T GPs, practice nurses, practice managers and administrative staff in dealing with day-to-day significant upskilling and further education the intention of the Mental Health Services to issues in the running of a busy practice. to improve their ability to assess, manage make the portfolio available through the HSE The publications were distributed to all GPs in the local health offices of Dublin South City, Dublin and treat patients at the scene, ensuring that intranet and library services in order to facilitate South West, Dublin West and Kildare/West Wicklow in the Dublin Mid Leinster region. They provide patients can be more effectively cared for disciplines who wish to avail of these tools vital information and the contact details of relevant health services provided within the area. prior to arrival at the hospital deemed most within a mental health setting. The Practice Manager Manual provides information on various state medical schemes. It offers to appropriate to meet the needs of their illness Speaking at the launch, Margaret general practice staff a clear concise reference and guide to understanding and accessing services. or injury. Daly, HSE Nurse Practice Development It includes detailed information regarding claims procedures, accessing schemes and services, Coordinator said: “Ultimately, the portfolio grants and subsidies, patient coding on the medical card system, list of contacts for staff and “This collaborative approach by will make assessments more widely available sample applications forms. the HSE’s services will reduce for patients and increase the information The Practice Nurse Information Booklet is a resource for GPs who are considering recruiting available to patients. It will act as a resource a practice nurse. The practical advice within the publication includes sections on continuing the total time from injury to across disciplines and, thus, become a more professional development, a guide to recruiting a practice nurse, criteria for contract of employment definitive care and positively standard component of care which can only and practice support subsidies. The booklet also includes a section on frequently asked questions impact on the patient’s pain improve the system. which addresses some of the common clinical and management issues that may arise in any surgery. and rehabilitation” “Annual reviews and updates are planned Speaking at the launch, Valerie Whelan, Primary Care Manager who was responsible for the if newer tools become available and if service production of the Practice Manager Manual said: “This manual summarises the numerous With this in mind, the HSE’s Midland Hospital needs demand alternative tools or scales that information queries which have arisen to date in our office. It is an effort, by us, to simplify the Group and National Ambulance Service better meet the patient’s needs,” she added. administration process for practice staff. I would like to acknowledge staff in the Primary Care Unit are working in partnership to improve the and other contributors for their input in the development of the publications. It is hoped that both patient’s experience and deliver improved publications will be an invaluable resource for general practice. Staff in the Primary Care Unit would services to patients suffering ‘broken hips’ by like to continue to work collaboratively with general practitioners and their staff in the future.” undertaking a thorough assessment at the Rita Lawlor, Professional Development Coordinator for Practice Nurses, who was responsible for scene and providing appropriate management the production of the Practice Nurse Information Booklet added: “The development of the nursing and safe and secure transport to the nearest role as part of the multidisciplinary team within general practice ensures the delivery of quality care appropriate hospital. to the patient. There are times when a general practitioner requires a nurse to join the surgery team, Commenting on this partnership, Robert but may be unsure where and how to start the recruitment process - this booklet is an easy-to-follow Morton, Chief Ambulance Officer, said: guide on everything to consider when recruiting a practice nurse. It also acts as a reference for the “This collaborative approach by the HSE’s practice nurse after taking up employment.” services will reduce the total time from injury Dr Kieran Harkin, commended the publications and spoke about their benefit to his colleagues in to definitive care and positively impact on the general practice. He maintained: “The manuals are an invaluable resource to the daily operation of patient’s pain and rehabilitation. Pictured (L to R): Mick O’Hehir Assistant Director of the practice. They were compiled with exceptional clarity and logic.” In this year alone, approximately 20 patients Nursing, Tullamore; PJ Lawlor, Director of Nursing Laois Offaly and Larry Ward, Director of Nursing Both booklets were developed collaboratively by the staff in the Primary Care Unit, based in have benefited from this specialised service Longford Westmeath Nangor Road, Dublin 12. across the Midlands.” Solo Canoe Trip Raises Funds for Respite Centre eamus Kirwan, a third year Social Care physical and sensory disabilities in Tullamore, Seamus travelled in his canoe from Lough Studies student in Athlone Institute of Co Offaly, where he had previously completed a Allen, in Co Leitrim to Killaloo, in Co Clare over S Technology recently completed a 12 week work experience placement. a two week period. 140 mile solo trip down the Shannon in a Established in 1993, the primary aim of The staff and clients of Clochan House canoe constructed over 40 years ago by his Clochan House is to provide the highest quality Respite Centre would like to thank Seamus for father. respite care to the individual, and to support the huge effort he put into raising this much Pictured Back Row (L to R): Dave Plunkett, Olivia In doing so, Seamus raised `3,765 for their families and carers through the provision needed money, and to congratulate him on his Conroy, Teresa Owens, Brian Farrell. Front Row (L to R): Seamus Kirwan, Aoife Bagnall and Sheena Morcom Clochan House Respite Centre for adults with of regular, planned breaks. wonderful achievement.

Heg^c\ '%%. =ZVai]bViiZgh P23 West =ZVai]bViiZgh

(L to R): Emer Melvin, Clinical Nurse Manager 2; Margaret Maguire, Clinical Nurse Manager 2; Deirdre Keown, CAWT Renal Project Manager; Dr. Austin Stack, Regional Consultant Nephrologist; Dr. Seamus Healy, Physican and Patricia Higgins, Renal Clinical Nurse Specialist Top Award: Cross Border Renal Project he ‘European Health Forum Award’ for 2008 has recently been awarded to a cross border project aimed at improving the care of T patients with kidney disease (renal) in rural areas. (L to R): Sheila Smith, General Manger, Sligo General Hospital; Barry McKenna, IT Manager, SGH; Mr Paul Mullaney, Medical Director, SGH; The project involved the Renal Units across six hospitals in the border Dr Kevin Walsh, Chairperson of Hospital Medical Board, SGH; Dr. Jeremy Smith, Dean of Sligo Academy, SGH; Dr. Seamus Healy, Physician, SGH; Domhnall McLoughlin, Assistant General Manager, SGH; Dr Detta Healy, Medical Manpower Manager, SGH and Prof Gerry Loftus, region working together to share expertise and information in the Dean of Medicine NUIG treatment and care of patients with kidney disease. In addition to Sligo General Hospital and Letterkenny General Hospital, the hospital partners included Cavan General Hospital; Altnagelvin Area Hospital, Derry; Tyrone County Hospital, Omagh and Daisy Hill Hospital, Newry. The renal project was developed with funding secured by CAWT, First NUIG Medical Academy: the cross border health services partnership, from the European Union INTERREG IIIA programme. Speaking about the relevance of the project, Dr Austin Stack, MD, Sligo General Hospital Consultant Nephrologist, HSE West said: “This is a sentinel achievement for the Project Team and all contributors involved in its success. Through this integrated renal information system, we can now evaluate our ability he official launch of the National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG) Medical Academy at Sligo General Hospital (SGH) to deliver good quality care, identify deficiencies in current service took place in January. SGH was chosen to be developed as the first step-out clinical site for the education of Medical provision, provide corrective action and strategically plan for the future. T Students from NUIG. “The real winners, however, are the patients whose journey with As part of the initiative, a total of 17 students will carry out one full year of their training at the hospital, studying the same kidney disease can be tracked more easily, whose dialysis care can be curriculum as their 100 classmates based on the campus of Galway University Hospital. monitored more easily, and whose quality of life can be substantially The hospitals will use internet and video conferencing facilities to facilitate linkages between the centres, including the improved. We also envisage it will serve as the seed project for a holding of multidisciplinary meetings, joint lectures, tutorials and discussion groups. comprehensive all-Ireland Renal Registry in the very near future.” The official opening of the Academy was carried out by Professor Gerry Loftus, Dean of Medicine, NUIG, as part of the Induction Day Deirdre Keown, CAWT Renal Project Manager based in Sligo for the students. The event was attended by members of the Academy, the medical students and multidisciplinary staff from the hospital. General Hospital said: “This is a major achievement and a tremendous Short presentations were made by Professor Loftus; Dr Jeremy Smith, Dean of Academy SGH; Sheila Smith, General endorsement of the kind of collaborative programmes that are in Manager, SGH and Gerard Healy, Medical Student. The arrival of the students provides SGH with an opportunity to forge a progress through cross-border networking. The renal information project permanent relationship with a university, which offers advantages for patient care due to the sharing of resources in the areas has allowed the six partner hospitals to come together, share knowledge of research and education training. and expertise so that the quality of care of patients with kidney disease On the occasion, Dr Smith stated that he hoped, “…that this relationship will be beneficial also in the future in ultimately can be improved. The project has demonstrated the true value of attracting doctors of the highest calibre to seek permanent positions at the hospital.” Prof Loftus said that he warmly welcomed collaboration by revealing areas of good practice as well as deficiencies the development and looked forward to enhancing these links in the future which will also benefit the NUIG. He added that he that can now be addressed, enhancing the overall quality of patient care.” was confident that the students would achieve a comprehensive and quality training at Sligo General Hospital. HSE/Mayo Co Library Launch Healthy Reading Scheme

‘Healthy Reading Scheme’, designed to guide people in their choice of self-help books for common psychological and emotional A difficulties, has been launched at the Mayo County Library. The scheme is a joint initiative by the HSE in Mayo and Mayo County Library. The focus of the scheme is to highlight to the general public the availability of a wide variety of self-help books in their local library which are there to help them to deal with common problems that they can encounter in their lives. These can include difficulties such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, stress, bereavement and a range of other psychological concerns. The books can be used by people either on their own, in dealing with particular problems, or can be used in tandem with professional help. Under the Healthy Reading Scheme, a list of books that have been recommended by health professionals has been drawn up and these books can be accessed, free of charge, from the local libraries in Mayo. Two reading lists have been prepared – one for adults and one for parents of children. Dr Meena O’Neill, Principal Psychologist with the HSE in Mayo, who launched the scheme, spoke of the importance of this type of assistance for people. She said: “Most people in the course of their lives, whether as individuals or parents, are faced with many emotional challenges. Frequently people are unsure who to approach for help, or may be unaware Clem McLoughlin, OT Manager, Phil Chambers, Senior Social Worker, Dr Ann Cullen, Consultant Psychiatrist, Joe Mellett, Chairman of Mayo of the various forms of advice and help that are available. The scheme County Council, Councillor Eugene McCormack, Dr Meena O’Neill, Principal Psychologist, Austin Vaughan, County Librarian. Laurence provides access to a range of self-help materials, free of charge, through Gaughan, Primary Care Development Officer, Cathal Kearney, Director Family Centre, Paula Leavy McCarthy, Executive Librarian and Geraldine Rice, Senior Staff Nurse local libraries throughout the county.”

P24 =ZVai]bViiZgh Heg^c\ '%%. Dublin North East =ZVai]bViiZgh

Active Elderly Benefit as Refurbished Centre Opens in Monaghan he Clones Day Centre for Older Persons, Co week day care service provided on a voluntary basis by Monaghan, has recently been refurbished and Clones Social Services Committee. Supported through T extended. Funded by the HSE, the re-development funding from the HSE, the Committee provides transport, was necessary in order to accommodate the increased meals, chiropody and social gain activities for Older People numbers of people attending the centre and to cater for on a weekly basis. The Committee also provides music, growing community needs. dancing, arts, physical activity programmes, outings and The new centre includes a fully fitted catering kitchen, cultural events and fully participates in the ‘Positive Age’ wheelchair accessible toilet facilities, personal care and annual programme. laundry facilities and two function rooms, which will be The Committee also provide a one evening a week used by Older People for activities. service comprising a light meal and social activities. The The refurbished facility now has space to operate centre is also used one day a week by Clones Active the service in comfortable conditions and allows for Retirement group, who provide social activities for active privacy and social interaction among service users where Older People. Those running the service now hope that, necessary. Access to the centre is greatly improved and with the new, improved facilities, the day care service can Older People who are wheelchair bound can now be be extended to include a dementia specific service and, accommodated in the centre without difficulty. indeed, that other voluntary groups will be encouraged to Minister Brendan Smith, TD and Cllr Benny Kiernan with some of the people who use the The Clones Day Care Service comprises a one day a actively use the centre. services at the opening of the extension at the Clones Senior Citizens Day Care Centre Nursing/Midwifery Annual Celebration Highlights Women’s Health

he third annual celebration of This project focused on perineal repair for a ‘Mother and Child’ DVD for Traveller Nursing and Midwifery was held midwives – Karn and her team reviewed women groups in conjunction with T in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, the clinical guidelines and developed an Navan Traveller’s Education Centre. Drogheda, in December. The theme of the education programme, a clinical manual conference was ‘Women’s Health’. and an assessment tool for midwives Geraldine Horgan, Clinical Nurse As the majority of employees in facilitating perineal repair. Manager II and Andrea McCabe, New Sli Route Our Lady of Lourdes are female, the Clinical Facilitator for Theatre organising committee for the celebration 3RD PRIZE: Maureen Kennedy, – for the development of a discharge Encourages Walkers of nursing and midwifery decided to Clinical Facilitator in ICU/CCU and readiness scoring system for patients embrace the theme of women’s health Marina O’Connor, Nurse Practice being discharged back to ward from the old but fine weather blessed the formal launch of the with a major focus on prevention. Development Coordinator – on recovery room. new Slí na Sláinte route in Carlingford last December, The conference had numerous short behalf of the local working group. C when a group of almost 40 turned out to witness the talks which included menopause, stress Madeline Colwell and Darren Behan, event and join in a short walk on part of the route. incontinence, osteoporosis, breast Their submission outlined the progress Clinical Placement Coordinators Tanya Comber-Rait, National Coordinator for Slí na Sláinte, care and cervical screening. The talks to date in Our Lady of Lourdes as part of – for their development of an education speaking at the launch said: “Slí routes with their signed were delivered by the specialist nurses, a regional initiative to introduce an ‘Early programme and a clinical guideline distances provide a safe, fun, healthy way to take exercise midwives and medical staff within the Warning Score’ into acute services. This based on best practice involving the and gauge your progress towards a healthier lifestyle”. hospital and attracted a large attendance score allows for the early detection and administration of intramuscular injections. She expressed her appreciation to the Health Promotion by all grades of staff. management of critically ill patients. The Department, HSE Dublin North East and to Louth County Our Lady of Lourdes Annual Excellence project, then in its pilot phase, is currently Laurraine Crinion, Clinical Midwifery Council for their assistance in bringing the route to fruition. Award for Innovations in Nursing and being rolled out. Our Lady of Lourdes is the Manager II – for updating and improving The Slí na Sláinte initiative was launched by the Irish Heart Midwifery were presented by Eileen first maternity unit in Ireland to introduce clinical practice in the management of Foundation over 10 years ago to promote healthier hearts Whelan, Director of Nursing and Midwifery an early warning tool. cord clamps. through walking. Today, there are in the region of 150 such at the close of the annual celebrations. routes in use nationally, with Slí routes already in place in The purpose of the award is to promote THE FOLLOWING RECEIVED Karen Clinton, Clinical Midwifery Drogheda, Dundalk, Blackrock and virtual routes at Darver excellence in nursing and midwifery care. RUNNER-UP AWARDS: Manager II and Grainne Milne, GAA Training complex and Stephenstown Pond. The award supports new ways of working Colette McCann, Manager for Women Clinical Midwifery Manager III which best delivers the range and quality & Children’s Services (on behalf of the – for their initiative in the management of services required in the most effective maternity unit) – for the development of of difficulties in communication. and efficient way to meet the needs of Disability Service Holds patient and service demands. Nativity Pageant THE AWARDS FOR 2008 INCLUDED: tudents attending the Education Centre at Woodlawns 1ST PRIZE: Una O’Brien, Staff Intellectual Disability Service in Lusk recently Midwife – for implementing an initiative S presented a Nativity pageant. The pageant was demonstrating excellence in midwifery presented in four ways: the story was narrated; acted out; practice. highlighted on a 15 foot wall collage made by the students and carols were sung. This four-pronged approach was This project encouraged higher attendance devised by the teacher to highlight the main events in the at antenatal classes by teenage mums story of the birth of Jesus, to make comprehension of the story and demonstrated success in increasing easy, to stimulate the students interest and to facilitate all attendance by 90 per cent. their different talents and abilities. A salient feature was the presentation by each student of a spiritual gift to baby Jesus. 2ND PRIZE: Karn Cliffe, Clinical The pageant was a rewarding blend of team work between Placement Coordinator – on behalf students and staff alike, where all the talents and abilities on the Midwifery Practice Development Martina Rundle, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda who was recently conferred with an MBA were identified, facilitated and put into action. Team and the Midwifery Clinical Skills in Executive Business Studies is pictured with Dr Melrona Kirrane, Lecturer in Organistional Behaviour at Dublin City University Facilitators.

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Move to Community Settings NSAI Awards Quality Accreditation iberty Street House (LSH), which for Mental Health Services provides out of home services for young L persons, has recently been awarded the to ensure an appropriate balance of professional staff and skill mix is ISO 9001:2000 Quality Accreditation from the available. The senior team leading the plan includes: Dr Maeve Martin, National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) Project Manager; Dr Michele Brannigan, Clinical Director and Local for its administrative services. Health Manager, HSE South Tipperary, Seamus Moore. According to LSH’s manager, Brigette Mintern “The service benefits overall by having Phase 1 (2009) of the project is already underway. This involves: consistency in all administrative procedures • The closure of St Clare’s Ward at St Luke’s Hospital, Clonmel; and docum ented policy and procedures • The care of 18 older patients, formerly resident in St Clare’s Ward, being to adhere to. Ultimately, and even more relocated to community nursing homes; important, it improves services we provide to • The redeployment of staff to Community Mental Health Teams, Acute young people who are out of home or at risk of Units and Psychiatry of the Later Life & Rehabilitation Unit facilities; being so and ensures that we are responsive • The decommissioning of the Intellectual Disabilty Unit – St Bridget’s Ward. and effective in meeting their needs.” This will involve the placement of 19 patients with an intellectual disability, Liberty Street House is part of South Lee’s currently resident in the Ment al Health Long Stay Facility at St Bridget’s Local Health Office in Cork, Colleagues in other The Senior Team for mental health services in South Tipperary. Back Row Ward, within appropriate Intellectual Disability services; areas of South Lee who have previously been (L to R): Michael Boland, St Luke’s Hospital Manager; Martin Ward, A/Director of • The extension and renovation of Morton Street Day Centre, Clonmel, to granted the accreditation include: Customer Nursing; Annemarie Shepherd, Social Work Team Leader; Dr Michele Brannigan, provide an additional 20 day places in a more user-friendly environment; Care; Housing Aid for the Elderly Scheme; South Clinical Director South Tipperary Mental Health Services and Elaine Bowe, Occupational Therapy Manager. Front Row (LtoR): Seamus Moore, Local Health Lee Personnel function; Fostering Payment; Manager, South Tipperary; CEO Professor Brendan Drumm and Dr Maeve Martin, The construction of a new facility, the Mental Health Community Maternity & Infant Scheme; Section 39/10 Psychologist and Project Manager Day Hospital and Day Centre, based in Clonmel – with completion Payments and Home Help Payments. due early 2010; ental Health Services in South Tipperary will undergo a • New accommodation for the Clonmel East Community Mental Health comprehensive programme of development in the coming Team in Queen Street, pending the development of the Mental Health M months – this was confirmed by Professor Brendan Drumm, Community Day Hospital and Day Centre. Food Handlers CEO of the HSE, in January of this year. The programme, which results from the strategy document, ‘A Vision Phase 2 (2010) will see the completion of community based for Change’, will see the closure of the old and inappropriate long-stay infrastructure. This phase of the project will involve: Complete facilities at St Luke’s campus in Clonmel and the relocation of over 100 • Mental Health services being fully integrated with Primary Care Teams residents to more appropriate, community based settings. It is anticipated (PCTs). The Mental Health sectors will be reconfigured into the Cashel Hygiene Course that by 2010, all patients involved will have care provided to them that is and Clonmel Primary & Social to ensure this; appropriate to their individual needs. • Two new ‘crisis houses’ being provided – these high support residential ood handlers from several food premises Commenting on the programme of development, Prof Drumm said: “The units, each 12-bedded, will support the rehabilitation programme of patients; in the North Cork area completed type of transformation underway in South Tipperary is being replicated • The establishment of three residential units to accommodate the existing F the National Hygiene Partnership across all the Mental Health Services in Ireland. To support this work, 19 long stay residents with an intellectual disability, currently residing in Management of Food Hygiene course last year. the HSE has now implemented a new national initiative where funding the Mental Health Long Stay Facility at St Bridget’s Ward; The course was organised and delivered by the from the sale of mental health land and properties will be set aside in a • The development of a new community nursing unit in Clonmel, which will North Cork Environmental Health Department in protective fund to support the development of community based facilities.” initially accommodate 40 adults with enduring mental illness – this will Mallow. Food hygiene legislation requires a food A project team is working with staff, service users and all stakeholders facilitate the closure of St Luke Hospital by the end of 2010. business operator to ensure that food handlers are supervised and trained in food hygiene matters commensurate with their work activity. This course is designed for all managers, Breastcheck Programme proprietors, and supervisors involved with food safety and meets the requirements of the Food Attracts Major Uptake Safety Authority of Ireland’s Level 3 guidelines in food safety skills for management. reastcheck, the breast Community Work Department their local butchers; in retail The course covers many subjects including cancer screening with Breastcheck, the Health outlets; pubs; GP surgeries microbiology, food poisoning, food hygiene B programme that offers Action Zones (HAZ), and the and pharmacies. Special legislation, personal hygiene, cleaning and free mammograms to women Northside Community Health information sessions within Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP). (aged between 50 and 64) who Initiative (NICHE), led by project the existing groups of the HAZ On completion of the course, participants sit are based on the northside of manager, Katherine Harford. and NICHE projects were also a supervised examination, which is corrected by Cork city has achieved a 70 per According to Ronnie held, such as the talk given the course tutor and validated by the National cent uptake since it was rolled Dorney, North Lee’s Principal by a Breastcheck screening Hygiene Partnership in Dublin. out in 2008. Community Worker: “The promotion officer at a bingo It is believed that the success success of the Breastcheck night (reaching over 300 is largely due to the strong Screening Programme is women – all within the target partnership existing between undoubtedly due to the age group). Word Wizard the health and voluntary tireless efforts of the existing Commenting on the services within the community, partnership between RAPID, promotional campaign, along with a sustained, targeted HAZ and NICHE.” Stephen Murphy, Community promotional campaign. The partnership also linked Health Worker, said: “From Bearing in mind that the Breastcheck’s Screening this, word of mouth just spread service has been offered in Promotion Officers into the about Breastcheck and its an area which has three of local community through benefits to this area.” the four RAPID areas in Cork networks (such as MAGNET) city (disadvantaged areas and partnerships already in See also p28: Breast Cancer that are being targeted by the existence. Centre officially opens in Government), this was a great The promotion campaign Donegal. achievement. saw the usual promotional David Leane, Waterford, won a word search The linking of health and tools, such as leaflets and For further information, please competition in the PCCC special supplement in voluntary services was born posters, being displayed where contact Stephen Murphy, the Irish Independent. David was presented with a through a partnership created women were most likely to see Community Health Worker. `150 Smyths Toys voucher by Pat Walsh, General through HSE South’s North Lee them – such as in libraries; at Tel: 021 452 9020. Manager, Waterford Community Services

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Blood Bank Achieves International Standard he blood bank at St Luke’s Hospital, Dublin, is among the first group of hospital laboratories in Ireland to achieve the T internationally recognised standard ISO 15189. This standard, which came into force in Ireland in November 2008, is mandatory for all hospital transfusion laboratories in Europe since the ratification of new EU legislation for blood/blood products. St Luke’s blood bank includes transfusion and haemovigilance (the monitoring of the quality and safety of the transfusion process on site). It administers in excess of 1,000 units of blood and blood products per year. The availability of the service on site on a 24-hour, all year round basis ensures that the radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment of patients is not interrupted. St Luke’s Hospital is the country’s largest radiotherapy treatment facility. Apart from transfusion and haemovigilance, its Pathology Unit provides haematology biochemistry, microbiology and histology services. The achievement of this accreditation involved the establishment of a rigorous quality management system coupled with an intensive internal audit programme over a one year period. Once achieved, ISO 15189 accreditation must be renewed annually by the National Accreditation Board. The staff of St Luke’s Hospital Blood Bank: Carol Stephens, Cathal Prendergast, Leon Flanagan, Stuart Ingram, Dr Donald McCarthy, Alice Melvin and Judy Taylor

Respiratory Forum High Quality Results for Blood Transfusion Lab Demonstrates Effective he Blood Transfusion Department haemovigilance, incorporated into service would not be possible without the of the Midland Regional Hospital Irish law in 2005. The scope of the hard work and dedication of the Medical T at Portlaoise was awarded accreditation (203MT) can be found on Scientists in the blood transfusion Multidisciplinary Working accreditation by the Irish National the INAB website: www.inab.ie. laboratory, the Haemovigilance Officer, Accreditation Board (INAB) last month. A team of assessors from INAB the Quality Officer, the Laboratory he Physiotherapy Department of the Midland Regional The award was presented by Dr Maire inspected the laboratory on two Manager and the Consultant Hospital at Mullingar has developed a ‘Respiratory Forum’ Walsh, Chairperson of the INAB Board to occasions. A comprehensive quality Haematologists. Laboratory Management T to encourage interdisciplinary sharing of knowledge Elizabeth Ryan, Chief Medical Scientist management system, reliable and would like to thank all of the staff involved between members of the multidisciplinary team. of the Blood Transfusion Laboratory at a accurate testing by trained and for their help and cooperation throughout This is offered to all hospital and community based health special ceremony. competent staff and a fully traceable the accreditation process.” professionals involved, or with an interest in, respiratory care. The award recognises the compliance blood chain is essential in achieving and Dr Maire Walsh added: “Today Recently, a Tracheostomy Care presentation was organised and of the Blood Transfusion Department to maintaining INAB accreditation – the represents the culmination of a lot of hard members of the multidisciplinary team involved in tracheostomy the international standard ISO 15189 department achieved these standards and work and heartache. The accreditation care were invited to participate. Each of the professions clearly ‘Medical Laboratories – Particular will be subject to annual surveillance in is recognised in 60 countries and outlined their role in tracheostomy care, but it was clear to see Requirements for Quality and order to maintain their accreditation. qualifies the laboratory for recognition in the importance of inter-disciplinary communication and multi- Competence’ and the EU Directive Speaking on the occasion, Elizabeth each country, which, in itself, is a great disciplinary working in practice. Dr Ron Charles, Consultant 2002/98/EC for blood traceability and Ryan said: “Provision of this accredited achievement for the hospital.” Anaesthetist (ICU), spoke about indications and possible surgical complications of tracheostomy insertion. Kate O’Flynn, Senior Physiotherapist (ICU), spoke about the role of the Physiotherapist; assessment and treatment of respiration and mobilisation status; providing advice on weaning and decannulation and providing support for the patient and family. She also highlighted the importance of humidification as the natural warming and filtering system of the upper airways is bypassed. Suctioning equipment and precautions were also discussed. Ann Tooher, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Respiratory, reiterated the principles of nursing care for the stoma and the tracheostomy tube itself. She discussed the signs and symptoms of blocked or dislodged tracheostomy tubes, emphasising quick but calm reactions with the dilator insertion. She also highlighted the importance of nursing providing psychological support to the patient and assisting with discharge planning. Karen Malherbe, Senior Speech and Language Therapist, finished the two-hour presentation with a review of communication and feeding issues, related to the placement of one-way speaking valves and cuff deflation. Commenting on the success of the forum, Karen Malherbe, Senior Speech and Language Therapist said: “The forum was well attended by Physiotherapists and Speech Therapists from community and other acute hospital care specialities, as well as nursing students and graduates. “It is hoped that this presentation will run again to ensure that care for tracheostomy patients in Longford/Westmeath is shared across all staff who may be involved in providing care so that more community based care can continue to keep even the high-demand Back Row (L to R): Eithne Lacey, Mary Fitzpatrick, Dr K. Perera, Dr Gerard Crotty, Catherine Sweeney and Noel Brennan – Laboratory Manager. Front Row client healthy for as long as possible in the community,” she added. (LtoR): Dr Maire Walsh, Elizabeth Ryan – Chief Medical Scientist, Anthony Davis and Frances Early

Heg^c\ '%%. =ZVai]bViiZgh P27 West =ZVai]bViiZgh New Breast Cancer Centre Delivers Improved Care

he new Breast Centre North and Quality Authority report of 2006. West at Letterkenny General The team includes Consultant Breast T Hospital, which will provide Surgeons, Oncologists, Pathologists, safe, consistent delivery of care to Radiologists and Breast Care Nurses. Pictured at the official opening of Breast Centre North West at Letterkenny General Hospital are (L to R): Alan Moran, Hospital Network breast cancer patients, was officially Commenting on the new service, Manager, HSE West; Mr Michael Sugrue, Breast Surgeon, Breast Centre North West; Dr Katherine McGowan, Consultant Radiologist and Clinical Coordinator, Breast Service; An Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, Mary Coughlan, TD; Sean Murphy, opened by Mary Coughlan, TD, An Michael Sugrue, said: “In my first three Manager, Letterkenny General Hospital; Dr Jim McDaid, TD and Tony O’Brien, CEO, National Cancer Screening Service & Deputy Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, months in the position, I have been Director, National Cancer Control Programme Trade & Employment, in December impressed by the level of commitment 2008. and expertise already in place. We The purpose-built unit is recognised are keen to enhance the service, as a designated Breast Cancer Centre and enhance public education and New Child Mental Health Unit to Open linked to Galway University Hospital. awareness through research and Following two years of planning, the education.” new 20-bed unit for the Child The unit will have an overall floor include a sensory room, play and arts Unit – which opened to patients in The Unit provides dedicated and Adolescent Mental area of approximately 2,500 square therapy areas, a wood work room, September 2008 at a cost of `306,000 consultation, treatment and diagnostic A Health Service in Galway is metres. and will include a children’s in- a games room and a sports/indoor – has been enhanced by Breast rooms, including a Breast Care Nurse being constructed at a cost of `7.5m patient unit, an adolescent in-patient activity hall. The new unit will also Check who supplied the funding for Consultation room and a counselling and is due for completion at the end unit and overnight accommodation incorporate landscaped gardens with the mammography and ultrasound room. The Breast Care Nurse also of the year. for parents. The therapy space will carefully designed therapeutic areas. equipment, as well as contributing to provides ongoing individual care John Moloney, TD, Minister for the refurbishment costs. and support from the first visit and Equality, Disability and Mental Health Patient donations also allowed continues that support throughout at the Department of Health and for the purchase of furnishings to the breast cancer journey. She also Children turned the sod for the new enhance the comfort and environment provides and facilitates a health unit, located at Merlin Park, Galway, of the unit. The second phase of the promoting after-care programme in January of this year. unit, which will incorporate a new called ‘SPARC’. This programme The new unit will replace St Anne’s waiting area, will commence this year. comprises of seven sessions Child and Adolescent Centre, on With the appointment of a addressing multi-faceted physical, Taylor’s Hill, Galway, and will provide permanent breast surgeon, Michael social and psychological needs of an extended range of services for in- Sugrue, the unit will meet National women who have completed the patient needs of children (up to the Quality Assurance standards as treatment part of their journey of age of 18), along with a wide range of Staff from St. Anne’s Child and Adolescent Centre, on Taylor’s Hill, Galway with plans for outlined in the Health Information breast cancer. therapeutic interventions. the new Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service Unit at Merlin Park HSE/NUI Report Identifies Needs of Children with APD

research report from the HSE and NUI has, for the first time, brought together academics and health care workers to identify needs for A children with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). Auditory processing refers to a complex set of skills that allow us to detect, identify, filter and interpret sounds. Children with APD have a difficulty with one or more of these skills, leading to problems with learning language and developing literacy skills. These children can find it challenging to keep up with their classmates at school. The need to address APD has emerged over recent years as key professionals in clinical and education practice found that they were working with children Top Psychiatry who had normal hearing, yet were having difficulties processing auditory information. International research from the USA, Australia, South Africa, Award for and the UK indicates that 3-10 per cent of the population experience varying Galway Registrar degrees of the condition, but there are currently no statistics on the number of people in Ireland presenting with APD. Dr Shane McInerney, Registrar in The report, entitled ‘Current and future service provision for children with Psychiatry with Galway Mental Health Auditory Processing Disorder’ was launched in November 2008 in NUI Galway. Services, was awarded the prestigious Douglas Bennett Prize by the Royal It was prepared by the APD Ireland Research Group, which included academic College of Psychiatrists in November for staff from the Speech and Language Therapy Department in NUI Galway, and Photographed at the launch of the report were (L to R): Seamus McNulty, Assistant his research project that examined the Speech and Language Therapists and Audiology clinicians from the HSE. National Director, Primary Community and Continuing Care, HSE West; Rena progress and quality of life of long stay Lyons, Director, Discipline of Speech and Language Therapy, NUI, Galway; Clare patients discharged into the community The report examines current services available for children with APD and the level O’Shaughnessy, Discipline of Speech and Language Therapy, NUI, Galway; Maria from Our Lady’s Hospital, Ennis, Co Clare of knowledge and skills among key professionals providing those services. It also Logue-Kennedy, Discipline of Speech and Language Therapy, NUI, Galway; Eilis over a five year period. Dr McInerney makes suggestions for the development of an integrated service for children with Dignan, Speech and Language Therapist, HSE Dublin/Mid Leinster; and Prof. Gerard is photographed in front of St. Brigid’s Loftus, Dean of College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, NUI, Galway APD in Ireland, outlining an ideal care pathway at both local and specialist levels. Hospital in Ballinasloe.

P28 =ZVai]bViiZgh Heg^c\ '%%. Dublin North East =ZVai]bViiZgh

Library Scheme Happier Hearts in North East Introduced in o date, a total of 61 catering premises in the North East have received the ’Happy Heart Catering Award’. The award encourages catering premises including restaurants, hotels, Cavan/Monaghan T pubs and workplaces to promote healthy food choices in a healthy environment, which complies with food safety legislation and the Public Health (Tobacco) Act. he ‘Book Recommendation Scheme’ The Happy Heart Catering Award meets the growing demand by the public for food that is both was recently launched in Cavan and healthy and tasty. As well as promoting better health in the population, the award can provide T Monaghan. companies with resources and opportunities to promote their business, build customer goodwill, The scheme involves delivering produce satisfied customers and show customers that they care. psychological therapy by means of books, By providing healthier food choices and paying attention to portion sizes, the award winning a therapy known as ‘Bibliotherapy’, which catering premises are making it easier for customers to choose healthy options, which is a key has been established as an effective method Margaret Costello with President Mary McAleese and her husband Martin objective of the National Taskforce on Obesity report. for helping people to address common The award ceremony was attended by Mary Wallace, TD, Minister for Health Promotion psychological problems. and Food Safety, Dr John O’Brien, Chief Executive, Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and Initiated by the Primary Care Counselling Michael O’Shea, Chief Executive, Irish Heart Foundation. Service and Rian Counselling Service of the Audience The team in the North East, led by Dr Nazih Eldin, Regional Health Promotion Officer, and HSE, in association with the Library services of including the Environmental Health Officers and Community Dietitians, will continue to promote Cavan and Monaghan, the scheme follows the Hails Expert this project among catering establishments in the North East. introduction of similar ones in the North Inner City, Fingal and Meath, in addition to other areas (see similar scheme on p24). in Violence The aim of the innovative programme is to make high quality self-help books more accessible to adults experiencing mild to Against Women moderate psychological or emotional problems, such as anxiety, depression or low self esteem. or Margaret Costello, Training & The scheme involves GPs and other health Development Officer for Prevention of care professionals recommending specific F Violence Against Women in the Dublin books to their patients or clients which have North East area, the chance to speak at a been selected on the basis of their effectiveness recent forum on Domestic and Sexual Violence with particular problems. presented her with a great opportunity. All GPs in Cavan and Monaghan have Having years of experience of working within received a copy of the information booklet the field, and also having been the victim of such which outlines the recommended books violence herself, Margaret gladly accepted the which are stocked in the libraries in Cavan and offer to share her experience and views on the Monaghan. subject. To use the scheme, all a health professional Margaret was invited by Eimear Fisher, needs to do is tick their recommended book Director of COSC, The National Office for the from the list in the information booklet. The Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender- patient or client then takes the booklet along to based Violence, to be keynote speaker about her their local public library where they can borrow own personal experience of domestic violence the book. and to act as moderator at the forum hosted by Pictured at the awards were (L to R) Back Row: Paul Henry, PEHO Louth; Aiden McDonnell, EHO Louth; Brian The information booklets are also available in President Mary McAleese in Aras on Uachtarain McKeever, PEHO Cavan/Monaghan; Al Donnelly, PEHO Meath; Marie Gorman, Senior Community Dietitian; Dave local libraries throughout Counties Cavan and in October. Molloy, Area Chief EHO. Front Row (LtoR): Alison O’Shea, Senior Community Dietitian; Olive Carolan, Regional Monaghan – individuals can choose a book from Community Dietetic Manager; Ger McGuirk, Senior Community Dietitian; Mary Wallace, TD., Minister for Health Addressing the audience – drawn from a Promotion and Food Safety; Dr Nazih Eldin, Head of Health Promotion Dublin North East; Bernadette Manning and the list which they feel may be helpful to them range of organisations and sectors committed to Geralyn Nolan, Health Promotion Department and borrow it directly from their local library. tackling the issue of domestic, sexual and gender based violence – Margaret outlined how the forum was a great opportunity for people working in the field to think about a number of issues. The first was to think about how we, as a society, can stop this violence; secondly, how Health Needs Assessment we, as individuals and as a society, can face this together. To Inform Services in Grangegorman Finally, Margaret questioned how we can develop a coordinated service framework that s part of the ongoing development The researchers are seeking to gather as supports the application of consequences for of the Grangegorman Primary Health much information as possible from a wide people who choose to be abusive and that A Network, the HSE is working in range of sources. These include: allows victims of such violence to remain safely partnership with the local community in • A limited household survey, with interviews in their own homes. the North West Inner City, Dublin to carry out being held by trained local people The Presidents’ forum was reported at a Community Health Needs Assessment • Focus groups within the community, length on RTE’s Derek Mooney Show and on (HNA). representing particular needs and interests, Playback , Margaret’s keynote speech was With joint funding and support between the such as young people, and older persons Graduates Receive Health quoted widely. HSE, Grangegorman Development Agency • Interviews and focus groups with health and Promotion Certificates Margaret has been working in the area of (GDA) and Dublin Institute of Technology, the social care providers, both within the HSE Pictured (L to R): Monica McKenna, PHN; Noel violence against women for the past 19 years Health Needs Assessment was commissioned and from other providers Malone, Trainer, Regional Community Welfare Her experience is wide-ranging, including in October 2008. The assessment is intended • Investigation of demographic and health Services; Andy Cooney, Health Promotion Officer, a manager of a women’s refuge, coordinator to inform the HSE’s plans for the development services data Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and Geralyn Nolan, of the National Network of Women’s Refuges of the Grangegorman site, as well as to Assistant Staff Officer who recently received Higher Certificates in Health Promotion with Kathryn and Support Services and, currently, as Training inform ongoing service provision in the The local community will also be provided with Meade, Health Promotion Training Officer, HSE and Development Officer for the Prevention Grangegorman area. additional opportunities for participation at Dublin North East. The HSE/ Dundalk Institute of of Violence Against Women in the HSE Dublin Under the management of the GDA, the forums to be held on the following dates: Technology course is aimed at professionals and non-professionals, of all disciplines, interested in North East area. land currently occupied by St Brendan’s • 24 March at MACRO, North King Street promoting health in their settings. Margaret’s tireless work and her capacity Hospital (73 acres) is to be redeveloped for (7.30-9pm) to engage with individuals, agencies and new buildings for the HSE’s Mental Health • 26 March at Christ the King Hall, Annaly For further information, please contact Kathryn Meade, Health Promotion Training Officer, HSE statutory bodies is a reflection of her incredible and Primary Care Services, as well as a new Road, Cabra East (7.30-9pm) Dublin North East. Tel: 041 685 0675; dedication to the field of domestic violence, and campus for Dublin Institute of Technology. • 1 April at Aughrim Street Centre (7.30-9pm) Email: [email protected] its prevention, at both local and national level.

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Psychiatric Unit Concludes Risk Assessment Survey

Cork Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) has become the first such A setting in Ireland to carry out a study which explored structured risk assessment CocaineC i and management practices. Results from the study showed that staff Awareness experienced many benefits as a result of participating, including: an increased Campaign knowledge of risk assessment; improved multi-disciplinary functioning and improved risk management strategies from education Launched Minister Mary Harney, TD, with Oncology Staff at the opening of the Oncology Clinical Trials Unit in CUH and training in this area. The study was conducted at Carraig Mór, public awareness campaign a 19-bed PICU where the majority of clients highlighting the dangers of using present with challenging behaviour. A cocaine, and the services available Oncology Clinical Trials The researchers used the method of a to those wishing to kick the habit, was detailed literature review and focus groups recently launched in Cork. The campaign with multidisciplinary staff prior to, and post, uses posters and some commonly visible Unit Opens at CUH implementation of the risk management plan. tools, such as beermats, to communicate All risk assessments were audited over a six the message that cocaine is a serious, and new Oncology Clinical Trials Unit was recently opened at Cork University Hospital (CUH) month period (January-June 2008), with the potentially life threatening drug. by Mary Harney, TD, Minister for Health and Children. A clinical trial is set up at the end form being amended in an interactive process Recent research conducted on behalf of A of clinical research in order to test a newly developed drug or procedure which shows involving feedback from staff and the people the HSE has shown that public awareness promise. Patients who participate in clinical trials may be the first to benefit from the latest who use the service. about cocaine is currently very low. But the cancer treatments. Their care is closely monitored during and after the trial. Clinical trials also Those involved in the study concluded statistics are worrying and, indeed, shocking offer patients an opportunity to make a contribution to cancer research. that the research proves that there is a – approximately one in seven cocaine According to Dr Seamus O’ Reilly, Consultant Medical Oncologist: “Since the establishment of need to develop risk assessment guidelines users become addicted, and around 1 in 20 the Unit, clinical trials have been offered to patients with breast, colon, lung, melanoma, cervical, appropriate to local service user needs. become addicted in the first year of use. gastro-oesophageal and prostate cancer. Breast cancer prevention studies are also available They also highlighted the fact that Not only that – cocaine overdoses are also to the general public. In the future, we hope to offer clinical trials to patients with other cancers. further in-service training is needed to highly unpredictable and using cocaine with The Unit is a major boost for clinical research and patient care in Cork.” inform multidisciplinary staff of evidence other drugs, particularly alcohol, is known The service is delivered at CUH, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Mercy University based, structured risk assessment and risk to be extremely dangerous. Cocaine and Hospital and Bon Secours Hospital and is funded by the Health Research Board. management practices. alcohol combine in the body to form another drug called ‘cocaethylene’, which is more toxic than either drug on its own. It will be a shock to many to learn that this potentially lethal combination can make users up to 24 New Cancer Day Care times more likely to suffer a heart attack. The group behind this recent campaign, Unit Nears Completion Cork Local Drugs Task Force (CLDTF), provides a strategic, local response to anuary saw Professor Brendan Drumm, CEO of the HSE, tour the new, drug use and comprises of members from purpose built Cancer Day Care Unit at Wexford General Hospital, statutory, voluntary and community sectors J currently nearing completion. including the HSE South. The CLDTF Over `1 million was raised by The Friends of Wexford General Hospital focuses on the development of community Committee towards the construction. based initiatives to link in with, and add The Unit’s design reflects the consultation that took place with patients, volume to, the existing statutory agencies, past patients and clinical staff, offering the highest standard of comfort, Pictured at the new Cancer Day Care Unit in WGH were (L to R): Bernard Finnegan programmes and services involved in space and privacy. (Director of Nursing, WGH); Patricia Harkett (Services Manager WGH); CEO tackling the problem of drug use in this Located adjacent to the main hospital entrance, the Unit will have a Professor Brendan Drumm; Lilly Byrnes (General Manager, WGH); Dr Colm Quigley country. dedicated entrance and reception. Eight free parking spaces are also (Clinical Director, WGH) and Richard Dooley (Network Manager, South East being assigned to the Unit. Hospitals Group) CUH Celebration General Manager of WGH Retires

he beginning of 2009 saw the retirement of Teresa Hanrahan • The provision of the new 21 bed extension in (pictured right) from her position as General Manager at Wexford the hospital, officially opened by Mary Harney, T General Hospital (WGH). Richard Dooley, the HSE’s Network TD, Health Minister, in 2007; Manager for the South East Hospitals Group, said Teresa made a very • The establishment of the new Education Centre valuable contribution to the SEHB and, more recently, the HSE. He said in WGH, now an integral part of the hospital; she excelled in Payroll and Human Resources, before switching to the • The development of a new ‘on call’ facility Special Hospitals office, where she made a worthwhile contribution prior (accommodation for doctors and consultants) in WGH; to the move to Acute Services. In recent years, Teresa’s leadership at WGH • The provision of the new Outpatients Department; proved instrumental in bringing a number of projects to fruition, the most • The extension to present Emergency Department facilities; noteworthy during her tenure including: • The establishment of a Medical Admission Unit in WGH. Catering staff, along with Michael McCarthy, • Coordination with the local radio station and the wider community Catering Manager, celebrate the 30 year anniversary in Co Wexford as part of a major fundraising campaign, firstly for the The HSE wishes Teresa well in her retirement and has expressed its of Cork University Hospital (CUH) CAT scanner and then the Cancer Day Care Unit (for which the HSE gratitude to her for the sterling service she has given. contributed matching funds to make each a reality at WGH);

P30 =ZVai]bViiZgh Heg^c\ '%%. Dublin Mid Leinster =ZVai]bViiZgh PHNs Conduct Traveller Health Study

ublic Health Nurses (PHNs) This study involves gathering nationwide are currently essential health information on P enrolling all newborns from Traveller infants born between 14 the Traveller Community, and their October 2008 and 13 October 2009. mothers, into a new health study. PHNs are enrolling all newborn The study is set up to gather babies and their mothers nationwide. essential health information such These infants will be followed up as health status, population, until their first birthday. All babies health service use, immunisation, born during this period are most death rate, birth rate and health welcome and mothers from the determinants. Traveller Community are being The census study, ‘Our Geels encouraged to participate. – All Ireland Travellers Health Study’ Those who missed out or who are began in October 2008. The study eligible, but were not enrolled at the was officially launched in July 2007 time of birth, can enter the unique by Mary Harney, TD, Minister for study at any stage before their first Health as the date marked the 20 birthday. year anniversary of the first ever The study is aiming to capture Traveller Health Study in 1987. the birth rates; maternal and infant RTÉ’s Marian Finucane with HSE National Director, PCCC Laverne McGuiness after the launch of the report ‘Our Geels’ is a survey of the health health; and the challenges that status of the Traveller population on infants face during the first year the island of Ireland. UCD’s School of life. All this information will be of Public Health and Population recorded in a special ‘Hand Held HSE/IHF Report Calls on Science is carrying out the study. Record’ which will be given to new Infant mortality, which measures mothers when they are visited by the death rate of infants during the the PHN. first year of life, is three times higher Information on how to enrol in ‘Palliative Care for All’ in the Traveller population than in the the study is readily available via the general population. This is probably PHNs or directly from the School report on palliative care published by the HSE and the Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) has recommended extending one of the largest differences seen of Public Health and Population access to palliative care for people with illnesses other than cancer. Specialist palliative care services have within any population. Science in UCD. Tel: 1890 252 849; A traditionally been developed to respond to the needs of people with cancer – some 95 per cent of the 6,000 people The right start in life ensures a Email: [email protected] who access hospice/palliative care services in Ireland each year are cancer patients. brighter future for this vulnerable The ‘Palliative Care for All – Integrating Palliative Care into Disease Management Frameworks’ report focuses on three group, hence the need for a more Further information is available from life-limiting conditions – Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), heart failure and dementia. The report has specific sub-study with ‘Our Geels’, the website: www.ucd.ie/phps/ recommended that palliative care be integrated into the disease management framework for all three diseases. entitled ‘The Birth Cohort Study’. research/trav/htm The report was commissioned as part of the joint HSE/IHF project to extend access to palliative care for patients with conditions other than cancer – a key recommendation of the 2001 Report of the National Advisory Committee of Palliative Care which was adopted as Government policy. Speaking at the launch of the report, Laverne McGuinesss, National Director, PCCC said: “Palliative care represents the last phase of health and social care for people before their death. This phase of care creates enormous challenges for health professionals, patients, families and policy-makers. Although, to date, the main focus of delivery of palliative care services has been to cancer patients, it has long been recognised that this is but one of many advanced pathologies that cause suffering and pain. The identification of other chronic disease categories for recognition in terms of Palliative Care services is a welcome development.” Co-launching the report, RTÉ broadcaster Marian Finucane said: “Palliative care should be available to everyone in need, irrespective of their illness. Up until now, many people – including members of my own family – were not able to access palliative care when it was needed. Extending access to palliative care to all patients will involve professionals learning new skills, sharing knowledge and collaborating on care. These changes in work practices will ensure that every patient in need has equal access to Palliative Care Services and the possibility of dying in dignity and comfort.” James Conway, Assistant National Director for Palliative Care and Chronic Illness said: “It is heartening to note that, in a recent study by the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety, Ireland The Birth Cohort Study involves gathering essential health information on infants from was ranked second to the UK in a comparative study the Traveller community of palliative care systems in Europe.”

New Databank Set up Under Art Collection Scheme

any artworks have been procured for the HSE’s health facilities under the ‘Per Cent for Art Scheme’ since the scheme was set up 10 years ago. But, for the first time, a national databank is being established to record these artworks. Explaining the M background to the setting up of the national databank, Monical McGill, the HSE National Per Cent for Art scheme facilitator said: “Having a databank of arts projects and artworks purchased under the Per Cent for Art Scheme will be a good source of information and inspiration for other people – for instance, those who want to use the funding provided by the Art Scheme. It will provide a source of information and inspiration for future artworks in our health settings and will be updated regularly.” The British actor, director and producer Richard Attenborough, showed his support for the practice of making art accessible in healthcare facilities when, in 1998, he said: “It is increasingly recognised that access to quality art in healthcare facilities is beneficial for people, both for their mental and physical health and wellbeing. Art is described as improving the way in which we communicate with each other, and also the physical environment of our healthcare facilities. The arts offer not only diversion and enjoyment, but can provide insights into the human condition and environment not achievable in any other way.” HSE personnel involved in procuring art under the Scheme will be able to access the databank of information on artworks received to date. If your health facility has availed of the Per Cent for Art Scheme over the past 10 years, please contact Monica McGill – she will be pleased to help you to include your artworks in the databank.

You can contact Monica McGill on Tel: 01 620 1784; Mob: 087 232 4294; Email: [email protected] White Dog by Paul Heaslip – Paul’s artworks can be viewed at www.paulheaslip.com

Heg^c\ '%%. =ZVai]bViiZgh P31 =ZVai]bViiZgh Message from the CEO

e are heading into very Successes and Achievements are controlling our employment are very complex such as integrated tough times; not only for the Because of the urgent nature of our numbers, budgets, costs and capital discharge planning. W health service but for the business, we tend to overlook our expenditure. Last year we delivered Nurse led community intervention country as a whole. successes and achievements. E280 million in Value for Money teams are doing an outstanding We need to use this time to The number of people we have Savings. We will repeat that this year job looking after people referred motivate ourselves and accelerate treated as Day Cases since 2005 is and make further savings of E250 from hospitals and community our transformation programme. We up by 25 per cent. Outpatient million. care providers. They are enabling should avoid becoming paralysed by numbers are up 25 per cent. Despite this, and due mainly to the thousands of people to stay at home the difficulties we are facing. We also Reflecting this shift to Day Cases, economic climate and the growth who would otherwise need to attend need to encourage and inspire those our inpatient numbers are up by in the number of people becoming an Emergency Department or have around us to stay on course. just under 6 per cent. unemployed, additional significant their discharge delayed. Now more than ever we need Reflecting our efforts to keep financial challenges are emerging. Other areas where we are showing to recognise the progress we are people away from our Emergency We must all be conscious of every success include the Cancer Control making and renew our professional Departments, the numbers attending euro we spend every day and ask Programme and the implementation of commitments to building a modern are down by just under 4 per cent. could we get better value, particularly the mental health policy – A Vision for health service. In relation to Primary Care Teams if we did things differently, worked Change and the Disability Act 2005. Professor Brendan Drumm, CEO of the HSE While we still have a long way to go (PCTs), our target is 530 by 2011. So differently, organised ourselves The appointment of Clinical and, by the very nature of change, may far, we have more than 100 up and differently. Directors will have major long term constantly building on our previous never reach an end point, we are on running. implications for our health service successes. the positive side of the scale. However, setting up a PCT is not Integration and I would particularly like to wish Each new change is essential for You and your colleagues – up and like turning on a light switch; they Full integration between acute the newly appointed Clinical Directors our evolution, another step along the down the country – should take credit take time to develop and reach their hospital services and community every success. road. for this and for embracing the type of full potential. based services is our goal and there It represents a great opportunity The work that you and your change that is improving services for Clearly those that are up and are examples of where we are already to bring management and clinicians colleagues have been doing during patients and clients. From the smallest running are at different stages of delivering this across the service together in a real and meaningful the past few years has been incredibly to the largest teams, you are making a development. I visited a number of The Winter Initiative has been way to make a sustainable difference important and the essential building difference that is vitally important. the teams during the year and I was a great focal point for many very to the quality and safety of the care blocks for a modern health service. I think people are now seeing the overwhelmed by what is being successful initiatives that have built we provide. I am hopeful that Clinical value in shifting to a community achieved by HSE staff within excellent bridges between hospital Directors will have a huge role to play based service and away from a communities – in terms of creating and community services. in simplifying patient pathways. predominantly acute based service. truly patient focused services I know that many of you have been More understand the improvements through teamwork. leading out on these initiatives at local Finally... we are making and the reasons why Patient safety is now central to level and there has been tremendous It is really important for you and your Professor Brendan Drumm we are making them. all aspects of our work and we co-operation in areas that I know colleagues to recognise that we are CEO, Health Service Executive ✂ Contributors Prize Draw Wanted Win Two Nights of Luxury! Summer Issue hy not write or Win two nights bed & breakfast in the luxurious penthouse suggest an article of Cork City’s finest property, the four star Imperial Hotel, W or feature for the located in the heart of the city. Summer 2009 edition of Health Matters and keep us updated he lucky guests will also be invited to dine at the award winning Pembroke on what’s happening in health Restaurant on their evening of choice, along with time spent at Escape around the country? T Salon and Spa where they can indulge in the Vitality Suite with a Pure If you are interested in Focus Facial, a Dry Float and time in the Relaxation Suite (for two people). a service, development or A national treasure built in 1813, the Imperial Hotel has been magnificently initiative being highlighted restored while keeping its historic charm. Offering style, luxury and comfort, this contact any member of the four star hotel provides a unique experience for business and leisure guests. HSE’s Communications team for assistance. You can also To enter please answer the question provided and send us write to us at Health Matters, your full contact details to: Internal Communications, HSE, Parkgate Business Centre, Internal Communications, HSE, Parkgate Street Business Centre, Parkgate Parkgate Street, Dublin 8. Street, Dublin 8 or email your entry with your name and contact details to: Alternatively you can email us [email protected] at: [email protected].

What year was the Imperial Hotel built? Please make sure to provide For further information on hotel packages your name, work address 1946 1813 1795 (including preferential corporate packages, and telephone number in please contact [email protected]). correspondence. Articles may • Name: be edited or cut. For further information on the Imperial Hotel • Address: and the Flynn Hotel group of select properties, The deadline for the next issue please log onto: www.flynnhotels.com is April 30, 2009. • Telephone:

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