Issue 28 Summer 2012 North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

Cervical screening services join forces page 3

Minor injuries comes to the Heart and health specialists rescue of marathon mum get Bill fighting fit page 12 page 19 A cut above - how leading edge surgical techniques are benefiting patients page 28

Anthem | Summer 2012 1 Boost your bones for Age UK’s falls awareness week People were invited to a free event in Stockton’s town centre to highlight the dangers of falls for the elderly. To mark Age UK’s National Falls Awareness Week, an event was held at the A generous George Hardwick Foundation, in Wellington Square, Stockton. Members of the public were invited to find out donation to how to prevent falls and get advice on how a balanced diet and active life style can help them maintain healthy bones. say thanks to The event, sponsored by the Home Safety Association, was organised by North Tees and neonatal unit Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust and Stockton Borough Council. Falls coordinator Yvonne Cheung said: “We Keen runner Andy Cairns presented were delighted to welcome the Mayor of the neonatal unit at the University Stockton to the event and see so many Hospital of North Tees with a cheque for members of the public there too. People called an amazing £800, to say thank you to in for a chat and picked up some valuable the staff who took excellent care of his advice on how to reduce their chances of son Shay, who is now 13 months old. injury from falls and find out about home Fracture liaison nurse Mandy Forth and falls co-ordinator Yvonne Cheung Andy, 26 from Stockton raised the safety and independent living. funds by taking part in the Great North “We got behind Age UK’s drive to boost the Run, which he completed in a very fast bone health of older people. There are many 1 hour 42 minutes. simple things that can reduce the risk of He said: “I wanted to do something falls and fractures as we grow older, such as to say thank you for the excellent care walking up the stairs and getting active in a that Shay received on the neonatal and local exercise class. to raise funds which will benefit other ”A balanced diet rich in calcium and getting babies on the ward.” enough Vitamin D through sunshine is very Ward manager Debbie Bryan said: “I’d important to build and maintain healthy bones, like to thank Andy and everyone who which will help to prevent falls and fractures has helped him raise such a fantastic later in life. amount for the ward, which will really Organisations at the event included Stockton help other babies and their families in Independent Living Centre, North Tees and the future.” Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust’s falls team and health trainers, Stockton on Tees LINk (Local Involvement Network), Telecare, Cleveland Fire Service, Crime Prevention and Senior health trainers Julie Johnstone and Elaine the Sensory Loss Team. Mirfin talk to the Mayor of Stockton

2 Anthem | Summer 2012 Bringing a smile to Teesside The trust’s community dental service have been encouraging people to take good care of their teeth during National Smile Month. The oral health promotion team have been out and about across Teesside running information and awareness sessions to increase awareness of the benefits of good oral health and the importance of regular dental visits. National Smile Month, which ran between 20 May and 20 June, is an annual oral health campaign organised by the British Dental Health Foundation to improve oral health and raise awareness. The key messages of the campaign are: Cervical screening • brush twice-a-day with fluoride toothpaste; • cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks and if you services join forces do have them keep them to mealtimes; and Two teams of laboratory professionals whose known as cervical smear test) will be unaware • visit the dentist regularly, job it is to process and detect pre-cancerous of the scale of events behind the scenes as recommended. cell changes in samples from the cervix and the extensive liaison work that takes Oral health promotion team leader Wendy (neck of the womb) have joined forces and place between the laboratory and hospital McGee said: “We were delighted to be become a single team based at the colposcopy departments, Primary Care involved in National Smile Month. We University Hospital of North Tees. The Screening Agency, Quality Assurance were keen to get across the message new service provides sample processing, Reference Centre and GP surgeries on a daily that taking care of your teeth and gums microscopical screening and Human Papilloma basis. Fortunately the cytology department not only benefits your oral health, but it Virus (HPV) testing for around 40K samples has a dedicated team of individuals at all contributes to good general health and per annum, the majority of which are taken levels who are prepared to go the extra mile wellbeing too.” in GP surgeries. All work is carried out in when necessary. The move to centralise North line with the National Health Service Cervical and South Tees services has created a more Screening Programme (NHSCSP) guidelines robust, resilient service better able to cope and monitored by the Quality Assurance with fluctuations in workload demand and Reference Centre. meet finite times for patient pathways and The team of nine from James Cook National Screening Office criteria essential University Hospital transferred employment to enable provision of HPV testing. It also to North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation prepares a more cost effective way forward for Trust in March and the result is one new both now and longer term developments such single team based at North Tees hospital as using HPV testing as the primary screening serving the PCT’s; Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, tool and automated image analysis”. North Tees, Redcar and Cleveland, and “I’d like to thank assistant directors Pam also the region of East Durham and parts Gazeley and Julie Parkes for leading the of Yorkshire. project. There were many other people both at North Tees and at James Cook who worked hard to make this venture a success”. Advanced biomedical scientist practitioner We’ve been made very welcome Callum Bowler, who headed the South Tees team, added: “We’ve been made very by everyone in the department welcome by everyone in the department and and everyone in the team is everyone in the team is settling in very well. settling in very well. Everyone working in the new team appreciates the importance of their work which is unseen Head biomedical scientist and screening but nevertheless an absolutely crucial part of co-ordinator John Smith said: “Nationally the screening service.” the cervical screening programme prevents Pictured are Callum Bowler, John Smith, Lynda around 5000 women per year from developing Lindsay, Lisa Hampton, Gill Ashton, Lynne cervical cancer”. Searching for, finding and McCreton, Sara Knox, Pauline Stark, Deborah correctly interpreting early cell changes is one Fox, Sue Robinson, Kay Weatherell, Natalie of the few qualitative, subjectively assessed Sexton, Muhammad Siddiqui, Carol Cotty and tests left in laboratory work and it takes a high Liz Bone. Oral health promotion advisor Lindsey Neville degree of skill, experience and training.” Also on the team but not pictured are Sonali and oral health promotion team leader Wendy “Many women having their Liquid Based Natu, Andrea Davies, Jo Maidens, Dawn Butler McGee at the event in Asda Cytology (LBC) cervical sample (previously and Dawn Hird. Anthem | Summer 2012 3 A special thank you Major projects Former teacher and patient Malcolm Danby presented special tributes to health professionals who are taking good care of him. showcased at Malcolm thanked life-long friends and colleagues, specialist therapy assistants Denise Mulligan and Barbara Bull. national conference The trust’s palliative care team to develop guidelines for team showcased three major the management of diabetes in projects at a prestigious palliative patients. national conference. “These guidelines provide The 9th Palliative Care Congress, a practical and coordinated which was held earlier this year approach to managing diabetes in in Gateshead attracted hundreds palliative patients across primary of health professionals from and secondary care. across the country. “A team of doctors, including The team were honoured to be myself, associate medical granted a place to three poster director and lead for diabetes at presentations. The projects the trust, Jean Macleod, a GP included how consultant in and hospice practitioner worked palliative care Jane Bentley, closely to produce the guidance has worked with the diabetes to manage the patient’s diabetes, Two of the very best from when they are diagnosed Occasionally in life we meet I remembered them from with a palliative illness until their People who are both pleasant history classes last days of life. and sweet So many years ago While the team were “It’s about focussing on the With a good sense of humour To remember me after all quality of life for the patient and and friendly disposition those years providing excellent the importance of supporting the They are a godsend to those in Made me feel very proud care, we felt the patient’s family too. The guidelines a less fortunate position – you know! are being used in neighbouring communication could trusts and they form the basis of I met them quite by accident I wish I’d met them sooner be improved. guidelines which are due to be When visiting North Tees To chat about old times They greeted me so warmly I’ll keep in contact with them It made me feel quite pleased ‘Cos they make me feel so fine.

Orthotics specialist for Peacocks Heather Skinner was praised by Malcolm too. A tribute to Heather Skinner - orthotics with a smile The young lady I met With a voice so calming in orthotics and pleasant Was a person new to me And PR skills to match Her friendly smile, present all with the rest the while She was good in conversation Showed that I would be I could tell she was up with treated well, you see the best She has a very good sense of humour Which put me at my ease It’s rare to find such people With qualities as pleasing as these Continue to develop your talents And ensure that you are working to please Patients who come with whatever their trouble Heather Skinner you’ve passed the test at North Tees Occupational therapist Carole Thompson and consultant in palliative care Jane Bentley 4 Anthem | Summer 2012 Major projects Nurses highlight bowel cancer showcased at awareness Bowel cancer is Britain’s second the toilet and emptying your national conference biggest cancer killer but 90 per bowels. It can sometimes be Specialist cent of cases can be cured problems with constipation Macmillan nurse rolled out nationally.” if diagnosed and treated in and feeling that your bowel Hilary Sadler Occupational therapist Carole time. Staff at North Tees and is not completely empty. It Thompson showcased a Hartlepool NHS Foundation is really important to get it screening and referral process Trust are taking the opportunity checked out if you are going for occupational therapy to raise awareness and, to the toilet more often, doing intervention with chemotherapy hopefully, save lives. Colorectal looser poo and/or passing day unit patients. nurse Lorna Shepherd lots of clear jelly-like mucus. Carole explained: “If patients pictured) and bowel cancer - Abdominal (tummy) pain are referred to an occupational screening practitioner Lorraine that is constant or which therapist earlier, this allows for Rodgers had a stand in the comes and goes. You should more time to plan appropriate hospital mall with important seek help immediately support for the patients. We messages about: if it becomes severe. provided a screening tool for the • taking up the offer of bowel - A lump in your chemotherapy nurses to find out tummy especially on which patients being treated at screening (currently offered to people shortly after their the right hand side. the chemotherapy day unit would - Unexplained tiredness, benefit from support from the 60th birthday) • knowing about the signs dizziness and breathlessness occupational therapists. (signs of anaemia). Specialist nurse Hilary Sadler had of bowel cancer. See your GP if you have been - Unexpected and unexplained identified there was room for weight loss. improvement when community having any of the following nurses were called out to palliative for three weeks or more: Lorna said: “ If people know patients, particularly in the evening - Bleeding from the bottom what to look for it can save lives. and on a weekend. (rectal bleeding) without any Don’t be embarrassed to see She said: “While the team were obvious reason. You may your GP if you are concerned providing excellent care, we felt also notice other symptoms about any of the symptoms the communication could be such as straining, soreness, described. When you are invited improved. We decided that a quick lumps and itchiness around for screening do the test . It reference register of all palliative the back passage. These could save your life.” care patients would be useful to can often be caused by piles You can find out more about bring the nurses up to date. (haemorrhoids), but this is bowel cancer at: http://www. “It’s important that patients can also a “red flag” symptom beatingbowelcancer.org/ remain in their preferred place of for urgent investigation, so it understanding-bowel-cancer care and make decisions about is very important to see your Phone the helpline on 08450 this. We document the patients GP, who can take a full history 719 301 or email: nurse@ preferred place of care and death and do an initial examination. beatingbowelcancer.org and this is monitored by the - A persistent change in bowel You can also find information Macmillan clinical nurse specialists habit meaning any unexpected at www.supportyourbowel. through the Gold standards or unexplained change to your com www.cancerscreening. register to ensure the patients normal habits of going to nhs.uk/bowel are being cared for in a place of their choice, and to make sure unnecessary hospital admissions are avoided. “The status of these patients is discussed regularly with the team and any concerns and queries the community nurses have. It’s all about working together as a team to provide the best care for our patients.” Jane continued: “It was a fantastic opportunity to share the work we do here with people from all over the country. There is some excellent work being done to improve the quality of patients here and this was a great chance to tell other health professionals about it.” Anthem | Summer 2012 5 Student nurse in awards spotlight Student nurse Beccy Phillips positive experience. I cannot has been named Student imagine doing anything Nurse of the Year at the else now. national Student Nursing ‘Both the academic training Times Awards 2012. and my placements have Beccy, from Hartlepool, been fantastic and set me who is completing the up brilliantly for the work I’ll BSc (Hons) adult nursing be doing once I’m qualified. studies, had worked in career path. She has now Sue Smith, director of various make-do jobs secured a job working in nursing, patient safety in retail, a restaurant and elderly care in Hartlepool. and quality said: “I am ran boarding kennels. But, Beccy said: “I completed extremely proud of Beccy’s nursing was something that an access course, before achievement. She has a she always wanted to do. starting on the degree, as I’d great future ahead of her A change in family been away from education and we’re delighted that she An amazing circumstances led Beccy to for so long. My training has is going to continue to be donation from Erica retrain and start on her ideal been fantastic and a really part of our nursing team.” A big thank you to Erica Larry from Ingleby Barwick who arrived at the children’s ward with her grandparents yesterday to hand over a cheque for £500. After a stay in hospital, Erica wanted to do something to say thank you for the excellent care she received and so with her family she organised a number of fundraising events, which raised £2000 to be split between the hospitals which took good care of her. Thank you to everyone who helped to raise such a fantastic amount, which will be put to good use by the ward to provide Podiatric surgeon Sharon Bell receives the award Gillian Johnson from NHS Diabetes receives the extra comforts for other children. for the trust’s innovative new day case foot surgery award for safer prescribing and administration of service from Dr Hilary Jones insulin from Dr Hilary Jones Leading the way in patient safety TV health guru Dr Hilary Jones joined health discharged home within one hour of surgery care professionals from across the region to to recover in familiar surroundings, reducing celebrate the innovative work of the NHS in the risk of blood clots and infection. improving patient safety. Director of nursing, quality and patient safety A regional award ceremony was held to at the trust, Sue Smith said: “Our staff should recognise and praise the achievements be extremely proud of these outstanding of doctors, nurses and managers who achievements, which is testament to their have improved the quality and safety of care commitment and efforts to continually improve for patients. patient safety.” The ceremony, which took place at the Wynyard Rooms, showcased work delivered Students say as part of NHS North East’s Safer Care North East Strategy, which was launched in 2008. North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation thanks with Trust scooped three of the 10 regional awards by winning the drug safety category for flowers leading a regional project to ensure safer Third year radiography students presented prescribing and administration of insulin and senior radiographer Julie Roberts with the reducing mortality category for reducing some flowers as a thank you for her hard deaths in intensive care through improved work and support as a student mentor. communication, patient pathways and Julie said: “It was a lovely surprise from influential consultant leadership. It also won the safe surgery category, for the the students. It has been a pleasure to Consultant anaesthetist Farooq Brohi receives the have them in the department. I’d like trust’s innovative new day case foot surgery award for improvements in intensive care from chief to wish them all the very best for their service which means patients no longer executive of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation future careers.” need to undergo general anaesthetic or Trust and chairman of the North East Patient Safety stay overnight in hospital but instead can be Strategic Forum Jim Mackey 6 Anthem | Summer 2012 Charity celebrates machine target success A machine that will help to treat early rectal cancer has been brought to Teesside thanks to local charity, Support Your Bowel. The ultrasound technology was as taking biopsies, scanning in guest artists. My sincere thanks Trainer said: “Bowel cancer bought by the charity after 18 theatre and for incontinence work. to my many patients, past and awareness is not on the same months of fund-raising through It allows us to capture and store present, who have contributed educational scale as breast, various initiatives including the vital data from the patient, which and to the various local companies cervical or testicular cancer so hugely popular Music v Cancer can be studied at a later date. for their generosity.” we need to get the word out Live sessions organised by “I would like to thank everyone Over 40,000 men and women for people to be aware of the bowel cancer survivor Tony who has helped to make this are diagnosed with bowel cancer symptoms and get screened Larkin. North Tees and Hartlepool a reality. Special thanks to Tony every year making it the third most NHS Foundation Trust matched Larkin who has tirelessly arranged common cancer. But only 9% of early. Early treatment has a great the funds raised so the vital numerous charity events (the cases are caught at the earliest success rate and this piece of equipment which will benefit so music evenings have been a huge possible stage and survival rates machinery will only further many patients could be bought as success), the chief executive differ from 90% down to 10% enhance that.” quickly as possible. Alan Foster and the board depending on how quickly it is SYB commercial and fundraising The charity’s founders and responsible for the trust’s detected and treated. advisor and Music v Cancer supporters gathered at the charitable funds for a contribution, Symptoms of bowel cancer founder Tony Larkin, who organises University Hospital of North Tees the Legacy Fund, Angela Lee, include rectal bleeding, irregular Live Sessions with artists such to unveil the new equipment Gill Trainer and the specialist bowel habits, abdominal pain, as David McAlmont, Colin which cost £63,000. nurses, Mick Donnelly alongside weight loss and dizziness. Vearcombe (Black), Jon Allen, Medical director at North Tees Musicians Unlimited and the CD Colorectal nurse specialist Gill Karima Francis added: “It’s a very and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust David Emerton said: “We proud day for the charities and are grateful to everyone who has its supporters who have worked raised funds to buy this machine, tirelessly to achieve this goal. I’d particularly Tony whose efforts also like to thank the trust who and enthusiasm with his Music has been a tremendous support v Cancer music initiatives have throughout. It’s a wonderful made this possible.” feeling knowing that this machine The endorectal ultrasound will help save many many lives in machine allows consultants to be the years ahead.” able to detect cancer at its earliest possible stages. Consultant colorectal surgeon, For more information about founder of the Support Your Bowel bowel cancer go to www. Charity Anil Agarwal said: “This supportyourbowel.com is the latest machinery and it will or to find out more about make a difference in the diagnosis the latest live sessions for and treatment of patients with Music v Cancer go to www. bowel cancer. musicvcancer.com. “It has a variety of uses such Congratulations Mihaela Staff nurse Mihaela McDonald (Mona) has “Passing the exam means that I can now successfully completed the Diploma Level put my new skills to the test in the plaster 2 in Theory and Practice of Musculoskeletal room. The course has really helped with Casting and Splinting. my clinical knowledge in the orthopaedic Mihaela, a staff nurse at the University outpatients department.” Hospital of Hartlepool is the first to complete Orthopaedic department manager Karen the brand new casting course at diploma Lowcock added: “This is great news for level. It is an even greater achievement for Mihaela and also for the team who have Mihaela who originates from Romania and supported her here at the trust. has had to overcome the differences of ”I’d like to add my congratulations to her on terminology to achieve this course. behalf of the department.” Mihaela said: “It’s not been easy working and studying at the same time, but the hard work Staff nurse Mihaela McDonald with orthopaedic has paid off and it’s been well worth it. I’d like department manager Karen Lowcock, and orthopaedic to thank the department for their support, in practitioners Phil Dobson and Jackie Wilson at the particular Phil and Jackie in the plaster room. University Hospital of Hartlepool

Anthem | Summer 2012 7 Bye bye Sandra Friends and colleagues gathered to bid a fond farewell to a colleague who retired after 33 years service to North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. Sandra Newbould started her working life as an original pinkie (ward orderly) at the University Hospital of Hartlepool carrying out general domestic duties on the wards. Thirteen years ago she became a healthcare assistant and joined the team in the Rutherford Morison day unit. She and fellow healthcare assistant Maureen Martin Wise were inseparable and everyone in the hospital called them Ant and Dec (though they never did work out which was which!). Maureen said: “Of course I wish Sandra well in her retirement but I feel like I’ve lost my soul mate.” You could tell by the smiles and tears that Sandra has been a much loved and valued colleague. Everyone in the trust wishes Speech and language therapists Amanda Harris and Amy Barker her a long and happy retirement. Life story project helps people with dementia Speech and language therapists teamed up with Stockton Borough Council on a project to help care for people with dementia.

Pictured with Sandra (centre back) are healthcare The motivation behind the pilot project is to interests and their families. Such small assistant Maureen Martin Wise, associate improve the care for clients, by getting to know pieces of personal information are so practitioner Lynda Bell and sister Enid Hall (right) the person behind the illness. The initiative important in helping staff to keep individuals is part of a project Smarter Homes for the feeling cared for and safe. Future which has seen organisations working “Families have told us that information, together to help people with dementia be which helps communication, like this can Octagon Design and able to live in their own homes. make a real difference to the quality of care, Marketing Ltd specialise in Speech and language therapists Amanda whether that means helping the individual to gaining advertising support Harris who recently presented the work eat well, or be understood and help build a for magazines so Anthem is they’ve been doing with colleague Amy positive relationship.” Barker, at an event in Stockton said: “We’ve Head of adult speech and language therapy Gill now produced, packaged, been working with a small number of clients Siddons added: “We were really keen to be a distributed in Stockton, where we’ve introduced the life part of this project. It’s about working together and story book, which is part of this project. to help people with dementia. “The book allows carers to know more “Communication can often be over looked delivered about the lives of their clients and personal because it’s not tangible. These books at minimal information such as their likes and dislikes. show that each individual has a personality cost to Communication and understanding can be and a whole history. It’s a visual tool to difficult for people who have conditions such help others to understand more about the the trust. as dementia. person they are caring for and help them “Being able to communicate with clients, initiate conversation.” whatever their condition is so important. We’ve worked closely with the clients and To find out more about how the speech their families to create their personal life and language therapy team can help, story books. contact 01429 522712 “The books have sections about the clients’ 8 Anthem | Summer 2012 Denise runs up an amazing donation for palliative care team One of the first people to run at the new took good care of my mum. Olympic Stadium, in London has raised vital “They helped my mum by loaning her specialist charity cash for the trust’s palliative care team. equipment so she could remain in her own Keen runner, Denise Bell raised £910 for the home as long as possible. department when she joined other athletes to “I’d like to say thank you to everyone that test the new stadium in the National Lottery donated money and raffle prizes. Olympic Park Run. “It has been a fantastic experience from She used the opportunity to raise money start to finish and I’ve been humbled by in memory of her mum, who received care people’s generosity.” from the palliative care team after she was The team of occupational therapists diagnosed with cancer two years ago. and physiotherapist care for patients WRVS volunteers Generous town businesses also gave Denise with life-limiting illnesses and work with prizes for a raffle during a Ladies’ Night at the Macmillan nurses. Clarendon pub in March, which added to her The money raised, will help patients access impressive total. equipment that improves their quality of life Lend a hand at Denise, 45, a nursery worker at Footprints and will be used to buy nebulisers to aid Nursery, in Hartlepool, was one of 5,000 patients’ breathing. our WRVS shops runners chosen out of 47,000 hopefuls for the Speaking on behalf of the team, Leigh Olympic Stadium run. Stevens said: “I think it is absolutely fantastic The WRVS shops at North Tees and Denise said: “I wanted to make it worthwhile what Denise has done. We are so grateful Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust are and something memorable. I wanted to do for her generous donation and we can’t thank looking for volunteers who can spare something to say thank you to the team who her enough.” a few hours a week to volunteer in their shops. The shops are very well used and provide a much valued service for patients, visitors and staff. Derek Hails, who managers the WRVS in the region said: “Volunteers play a tremendous role and we are truly grateful for their commitment. “We have an amazing team of volunteers and we really value what they do for us. “Profits from the shop benefit the hospitals so it is important that we have enough volunteers to maintain customer satisfaction and continuously increase the funds we raise.” Anyone interested in voluntary work for the WRVS shop at the University Hospital of North Tees should phone 01642 352369 or the University Hospital of Hartlepool should phone 01429 522730. Denise Bell (centre) with Macmillan staff Kat Owen, Carole Thompson, Leigh Stevens and Hilary Sadler Promoting a healthy lifestyle Health trainers were in the the public stop by to pick up mall at the University Hospital information and advice. of North Tees encouraging “It was also a great opportunity people to take steps to lead a to promote the service to healthy lifestyle. staff who want to lead a The team were on hand to healthier lifestyle and for talk to members of the them to find out how we can public and staff about the importance of healthy eating support their patients. It’s really and regular exercise. important that staff can tell Health trainer manager Sharon patients about our service to Bartram said: “The event was help them improve their health. really successful. It was great “We’re here for anyone who to see so many members of wants support and advice.”

For more information about the health trainer service people can call 01642 383833. Good advice - senior health trainer Elaine Russon and Elaine Mirfin

Anthem | Summer 2012 9 How healthy are your lungs? The respiratory team and specialist stop smoking advisors held a lung function testing day to mark World Spirometry Day. The events were held at One Life Hartlepool, the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool, in the run up to the Olympics, to raise awareness Ta ta Tim of good lung health and demonstrate the importance of sport and other Friends and colleagues gathered and he liaised between staff exercise for healthy lungs. in orthopaedic outpatients in the community and on the Members of the public were invited at the University Hospital of wards. He also trained staff and to come along to take a lung test North Tees to say farewell to could be relied on to don a or simply find out more information Tim Renshaw. Tim qualified uniform in busy times to support about lung health. as a registered nurse in 1980 staff on the wards. He’s looking COPD nurse co-ordinator Sandra and worked in hospitals across forward to having more time Stych said: “We were providing a Middlesbrough. When the to spend with the family and simple test that takes about five Specialist stop smoking advisor Wendy government created the role of - when the weather improves - minutes to complete. People were Martindale and stop smoking facilitator nurse consultants Tim was one more time in his garden! asked to breathe into a machine Leanne Watson at One Life Hartlepool’s of the first. He joined what was Tim is pictured with assistant called a spirometer, which measures respiratory department then North Tees and Hartlepool director for nursing Barbara the amount and speed of the air NHS Trust as a nurse consultant Carr, his wife Christine, general that you can get in and out of your lungs. If people were concerned in orthopaedics in 2001. Tim was manager Rowena Dean and his about the results of their test, they instrumental in developing the many colleagues and friends could make an appointment to trust’s falls prevention strategy who called in to wish him well. see their GP.” Lead community respiratory nurse Dorothy Wood continued: “We wanted to encourage anyone who was concerned about their lung Trust holds memorial health to get their lungs tested for an early indication of diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive service for people pulmonary disease – a term for chronic bronchitis and emphysema, affected by the loss of where the airways to the lungs become narrowed.” Stop smoking service manager a baby or child Pat Marshall added: “You’re four times more likely to quit smoking The promise of a new baby, if you get help from the stop plans made and a future smoking service. Find out how mapped out is something we can help you quit smoking by Lead community respiratory nurse many people take for granted. phoning 01642 383819.” Dorothy Wood at One Life Hartlepool However when things go wrong it can turn people’s worlds upside down. That is why hospital chaplains at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust once and families lives and on their again held the annual memorial hopes for the future, so it is an service to allow families the important part of their grieving time and space to remember and healing process to be their babies and the very special able to acknowledge that their place they will always hold in baby or child was a significant their lives. part of their life and will never Hospital chaplain Lynn Purvis be forgotten. said: “The memorial service “Families had an opportunity to aims to help and support reflect, light a candle, participate families as they journey in an act of remembrance for through their loss and grief. The their little one, as well as being loss of a baby or child has a alongside others who are facing Trainee respiratory physiologist Trainee respiratory physiologist devastating effect on parents similar struggles.” Claire Bullock at the University Harriet Lees at the University Hospital of Hartlepool Hospital of North Tees 10 Anthem | Summer 2012 Hospital nurseries carry the torch Research nurses Helen Wilson, Hyder Latif, Sarah Kiddell, Alison Chilvers, Wendy Cheadle, Tarn Nozedar, Sue Kelsey, Sharon Stevens Children at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust’s day nurseries have been celebrating the arrival of the Olympic flame by holding their very own Research torch relay. A group of pre-school children and nursery staff took the torch from the University figures topped Hospital of North Tees to the University The number of patients taking part in research who have contributed to this success. Speaking Hospital of Hartlepool, before children studies at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS on behalf of the research and development returned it later in the week. Foundation Trust has taken a significant leap in department, director of research and Nursery manager Denise Lakinski said: the last year. development Professor Volker Straub said: “I “The children were very excited to learn Recent figures released from the National Institute would like to thank all staff for their contribution about such an historic event. They all of Health Research (NIHR) has shown the number to this success. Research is something that enjoyed getting involved and making of NHS patients recruited into research at the is exciting. It is to provide patients with even their own torches.” trust has more than doubled in the last year. better care in the future. The figures show that 1146 patients were “It’s very much a team effort, but much of that recruited into studies during 2011/12, in success is down to the research nurses. We comparison to 458 in the previous year. couldn’t do this without the patients and we Patients can be involved in some research would like to say thank you to them for agreeing studies for a number of years while others to take part in these studies. can be as simple as completing a quick “We are very lucky in this trust as patients questionnaire. Every part of research activity are always very willing to contribute to these is as important as the next. It can make a big important research studies. difference to the treatments we provide for our “The research and development department patients in the future. would like to thank you all for your efforts and we Research and development director Volker hope to continue to build on this success.” Straub (pictured) said: “These figures demonstrate The trust is constantly trying to recruit more the high level of clinical support in trust for patients with various health conditions Olivia Greaves, team leader Clare Marsh, Roslyn research, and of the enthusiasm of patients to into research studies. For more information, Dale, Harvey Davey and Jacob Sedgewick become involved in research.” phone the research and development office on A celebratory event was held to thank staff 01642 624090. Trust urges more women to attend cervical screening Health professionals that women attend cervical detection of abnormalities at the trust have been screening. Cervical screening at an early stage. Screening encouraging more women is not a test for cancer, is free on the NHS and to attend cervical screening, but instead allows for regular checks offer the best during Cervical Screening protection against developing Louie Gunn, Lilly Bell, nursery nurse Helen Awareness Week. cervical cancer.” Wressell, Levi Rudd and Anthony Knowlson The number of women in Cervical Screening Teesside who are getting Awareness Week is a UK screened has fallen. Every wide initiative led by Jo’s year in the UK, over 2,900 Cervical Cancer Trust and women will be diagnosed aims to highlight the with cervical cancer and importance cervical nearly 1,000 women will screening plays in the die from the disease. After prevention of cervical cancer. breast cancer, cervical Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust cancer is the second most is the UK’s only charity common cancer in women dedicated to women aged 35 and under. and those close to them Biomedical scientist Sue Biomedical scientists Sue affected by cervical cancer Millie Crangle, Jude Hogg, Skye Duffield, Oliver Robinson said: “It is vital Robinson and Sara Knox and cervical abnormalities. Wheelan, Harriett Todd, Andrei Nita

Anthem | Summer 2012 11 Minor injuries unit to the rescue of marathon mum A mum, who has just run a marathon, has marathon because praised health professionals at One Life I was doing it for Hartlepool’s minor injuries unit. Alex, but of course Thirty one year old Katy Million, from Greatham the injury meant arrived at the minor injuries unit, run by North that I couldn’t Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, train as much as Peter when she injured her ankle while training for I wanted to.” the Marathon of the North. But Katy, who Katy had a special reason for wanting to has already achieves complete the marathon; she is fundraising for completed the an operation for her young son. Her three year Great North Run old son Alex was born with microtia, meaning three times, chartered little ear and atresia, which means he doesn’t was delighted have an external ear canal, leaving him deaf on to complete one side. the 26.2 mile status marathon in four hours 47 Associate director of estates and minutes, despite her injury. facilities Peter Mitchell has been awarded I’m really pleased that Katy was She continued: “I’d injured the other side of chartered engineer status by the Institute the same ankle during the marathon. I went of Healthcare Engineering and Estate happy with her care and I’m back to the minor injuries unit, where the staff Management (IHEEM). delighted that she has successfully remembered me from my last visit. “It was nice to see the same staff, who are After qualifying as an engineer 25 years completed the marathon. ago, Peter has gained more than 10 years’ helpful, friendly, caring and make you feel like nothing is any trouble for them. experience in a senior healthcare estates She said: “I started training too quickly, when I “I’ve since been back for physiotherapy, management role. went over on my ankle. I arrived at the minor where physiotherapist Mike Gertiz has not only injuries unit to be looked after by the emergency taken good care of me and given me good nurse practitioner within 20 minutes. advice, but made me and Alex feel welcome in “At the time I’d mentioned I’d hurt my wrist the department.” while I was messing about with Alex. It was Katy, who needs to raise £30,000 by the time It’s an achievement for no trouble for the staff to take a look at it. Alex is about 10 years old has already raised Within the hour and two x-rays later I was on him personally but also £2,500 thanks to people’s generosity. my way home, with a badly sprained foot and Emergency nurse practitioner Nicola Grieves, demonstrates the professional a bandage on my wrist. who is also a sister in accident and emergency “I was determined to take part in the competence and commitment at the University Hospital of North Tees, treated of my colleagues at the trust. Katy on both occasions at the minor injuries unit. She said: “I’m really pleased that Katy was happy with her care and I’m delighted that she Peter said: “As a member of IHEEM I has successfully completed the marathon. was able to pursue chartered engineer “We’re treating people here, like Katy who are status. I had to demonstrate professional walking wounded and have injuries such as competences through experience, sprains and cuts. A team of highly skilled nurse education, written submissions and practitioners, supported by medical staff are continued professional development. here 24 hours a day, 365 days a week. “The final step was to attend an “We can do a lot to treat our patients here. interview in London with the chief The unit has an x-ray machine and we have executive of the institute. It was quite a the facilities to stitch and applying dressings to daunting process and I’d like to thank the wounds and a plaster room where we can treat trust for their support.” straightforward breaks. Commercial director Kevin Oxley said: “Anyone who is seriously ill or injured should “I’d like to congratulate Peter. It’s an call 999 and the ambulance service will decide achievement for him personally but the best place to go.” also demonstrates the professional competence and commitment of my To find out how you can pledge your support to Alex, find out about further fundraising colleagues at the trust.” events and to make a donation go to http://www.earforalex.co.uk/

12 Anthem | Summer 2012 Team leader Helen Smith cuts the cake with healthcare assistant Gillian Parker, Practice development nurse Jane Sirs with community school nurses Claire deputy director of nursing Cath Siddle, healthcare assistant Sandra Hind and Andrew, Clare Robinson, Julie Mallinson and Linda Kirkbride practice development nurse Jane Sirs Thank you to our nurses Nurses at North Tees and as a tribute to Florence Nightingale Hartlepool NHS Foundation who was born on that day in Trust were in for a treat as they 1820 and celebrates the valuable celebrated nurses’ day. contribution that nurses make. Hundreds of cupcakes were Director of nursing, patient safety donated from Jan’s Sweet and quality Sue Smith said: “I Temptations in Thornton and would like to thank all of the local Wintersgate Bakery in Stockton, businesses that provided treats while hospital catering staff created and free raffle prizes. It means a lot an amazing celebration cakes and to our nurses to know that they are fairy cakes to mark the occasion. appreciated so much. Nurses got the chance to win ”As a nurse myself I appreciate fantastic prizes including facials, the very important job our nurses Director of nursing, patient safety and quality Sue Smith (second right) with nursing body massages and other beauty do. Every day our nurses support colleagues and catering staff treatments donated from generous people to keep them healthy and an impact on thousands of people and healthcare staff who all work local businesses. Nursing staff look after them when they’re across the area we serve. hard to provide the very best care enjoyed complimentary Indian head sick. Wherever they’re working “Nursing is still the vocation it to our patients.” massages and Reiki, while David our nurses share one passion - always was and it remains, quite Lloyd’s gym in Stockton handed and that is to provide high quality, A big thank you to the rightly, a respected profession. compassionate and safe care. companies who made the day out free day passes to staff. Yes, we want a skilled nursing special for our nurses Nurses’ day takes place workforce, but just as important internationally each year on May 12, is having the type of person who Vintage Hair & Beauty Lounge; demonstrates compassion and Image Salon; Kiwi Beauty Salon; Nursing is still the caring at all times. These are the Gravity Hair & Beauty; things our patients appreciate, they ARTEMIS Hair Salon; vocation it always are our values as trust and I am The Beauty Brow Bar; was and it remains, proud of our nurses who continue Rix Hair Design; Niche quite rightly, a to make a difference every day. Hairdressing; Therapeutic Touch; “Nurses day represents a special Shapers; Copes Studios; respected profession. day for us as nurses. It is a day Stephanie Morgan Hair & Beauty; where we have the opportunity Liberty’s Hair & Beauty; “We’ve shown very clearly to reflect and celebrate and it is Ooh La La Beauty Parlour; that nurses make a significant also, for those of us who are a Shape Hair Salon; difference to a patient’s experience part of this privileged and special Alison McCabe Hairdressing; on our wards and in the community. profession to be proud of what Jans Sweet Temptations; From ensuring patients are cared we do. Wintersgate Bakery; for compassionately, wards are “I would like to extend my Daintee Cakes; Peter Milburn Director of nursing, patient safety and quality Sue and assistant director for safe, clean and tidy, patients with personal thank you to all nurses Chemist; WRVS; Secret Garden; nursing, quality and patient and public long term medical conditions are and health care staff across the David Lloyds Gym; Alternative engagement Barbara Carr cut the supported at home and infections trust. It is a pleasure to be leading Therapies by Anne Hitch; Holistic celebration cake are tackled our nurses have had such a fantastic group of nurses Heaven; Crathorne Arms Anthem | Summer 2012 13 Winning the fight against infection The infection prevention and control team at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust has continued to show its commitment to infection prevention and control by raising hand hygiene awareness. The trust, signed up to the World Health Organisation (WHO) global hand hygiene initiative; Save Lives: Clean Your Hands day which was held on 5 May, and over a week- long series of events demonstrated they are continuing to working hard to tackle health care associated infections. The team held promotional stands, where information was given out about effective hand hygiene to stop the spread of Chief executive infections and a poster competition in the appointed children’s ward. Assistant matron for infection prevention and control honorary Lynn Blackwood and infection, prevention and control nurse Elizabeth Warde

colonel of We take infection prevention trust, to make sure we are giving our and control and cleanliness very patients the best possible care in the best the 201 Field seriously at the trust, to make possible environment. “Hand hygiene is the single most important Hospital sure we are giving our patients way of preventing the spread of infection and the best possible care in the best if everyone works together we will continue to Chief executive Alan Foster has been possible environment. reduce the risk of infection.” appointed honorary colonel of the Patients and visitors using our hospitals can 201 Field Hospital. Alan was invited give a helping hand in reducing the risk of to apply for this role because he is Non executive director Ken Lupton was the infection in many ways: keen to increase recruitment into the judge of the poster competition and presented Territorial Army from within the NHS in • Patients should try to avoid the children with their prizes. touching wounds Tees Valley. Assistant matron for infection prevention • Patients should limit the number of items He said: “I am very grateful to the TA for and control Lynn Blackwood (pictured) said: they bring into hospital – clutter makes it bestowing me with this honour. I took “Cleaning hands before and after having up my appointment earlier this month more difficult to control infection contact with patients is one of the most and my remit is to forge and improve important measures for preventing the • Visitors should not sit on patients’ beds relationships between the TA and local spread infection. • Visitors who feel unwell and have illnesses NHS organisations.” “We have found the event to be a valuable such as colds should avoid visiting patients way of engaging staff from all over the trust unless it’s absolutely necessary and reminding them of the importance of • Most importantly everyone should clean hand hygiene. their hands “We take infection prevention and control Congratulations to all of the children who won and cleanliness very seriously at the prizes in the competition.

Non executive director Ken Lupton presents prizes to Amber Coombs and Kadee Dack 14 Anthem | Summer 2012 The end of an era The medical rehabilitation day unit such great memories which I at the University Hospital of will take with me to the Hartlepool celebrated the end of new accommodation. It’s the an era as they prepare to move people which make those into new accommodation on happy memories. Wednesday this week. “The new department is The department will move to clean, bright and welcoming. It refurbished accommodation next dramatically improves the service to the front entrance of the main for our patients. We will now be hospital building and will provide within the main hospital building patients with modern, spacious so taking patients for scans and accommodation with easy access tests will be much easier. to other departments. “Of course, not only is the building Jess Robinson, midwife Becky Eggleston, Amy Dyball, English teacher at Ian The day unit has out-grown its old better for patients but it is also Ramsey C of E School, careers consultant, NHS Careers Alan Simmons, Hollie building, which had opened in 1978 a better working environment for Hannah, midwife Gail Lang and Andy O’Brien and is no-longer fit for purpose. the staff too. Sister Jill Barrett said: “The “Everyone has pulled together and celebrations marked the end of an worked really hard to get the move era for colleagues, old and new. complete. The estates team have Students win I worked as a student in the day done a fantastic job and I’d like to hospital from 1979 then came back thank everyone who has helped to NHS competition as a staff nurse in 1986 and I’ve got make this move a success.” Midwives Becky Eggleston and Midwife Becky Eggleston said: Gail Lang presented prizes to “Young people are extremely the winners of a competition important to the future of the run by NHS careers. NHS and it’s great to know Four students from Ian Ramsey that students are aware of the C of E School in Stockton-on- wide range of opportunities that Tees have won a competition exist. We are delighted that the run by NHS Careers. Jess winners chose to look at the job Robinson (14), Andy O’Brien of a midwife, as many people (14), Hollie Hannah (13) and Jess may not be aware of the work Smith (13), were announced we do in not just preparing as joint national winners of women for the delivery of their the annual Step into the NHS child throughout pregnancy schools’ competition. and the labour itself, but also Sister Jill Barrett locks the door, watched by colleagues and chief executive Alan Foster (pictured right) supporting mums and their newborns during the early postnatal period.” Working together to improve Young people are Janet Wilson, head teacher at extremely important to Ian Ramsey School said, “We dignity and care are thrilled that our students the future of the NHS. Dedicated portering staff have the same care and dignity as have been selected as joint been working closely with the trust provides for the living national winners. This is the colleagues in the mortuary to and supporting their families at Students were tasked with second consecutive year that researching one of the 350 improve the dignity and care what can be a very sad time. we have won the competition, different career opportunities of deceased patients on their We want the final journey for which has once again proved in the NHS and producing journey from the wards to the patient to be as dignified as very popular with our students. a job advertisement and the mortuary. possible and that is why it is so It is a fantastic resource for either a job description or a The trust has recently invested important that we work together delivering some of the key CV of the ideal candidate for in some new specialist to make sure this happens.” learning objectives, whilst equipment for the mortuary and their chosen role. Over1,250 also upgraded the concealment students across England enabling students to develop trolley covers, with the entered the competition. their skills and prepare them for assistance of linen services. Jess Robinson from Norton, the world of work.” Mortuary manager Michelle Andy from Hartburn, Hollie Jess, Andy, Hollie and Jess Lancaster said: “We’ve been from Fairfield, and Jess Smith added: “We enjoyed taking part in the competition and we are working with the ward staff from Elmtree decided to and porters during awareness look at the role of a midwife now more aware of the jobs available in the NHS. We chose sessions to make further in the NHS. The judges were improvements. Staff really midwifery because it is one particularly impressed by their appreciate the need to treat of the most important roles creativity and understanding every patient on the ward in caring for babies and their of the role in developing a the same and these training range of materials including an mothers. Through the research sessions reinforce the need Mortuary manager Michelle Lancaster, innovative advertising campaign we did for the competition, we to do that. anatomical pathology technologist Ian using a milk bottle to promote learnt a lot more about the day- “We are committed to looking McCormick with porters David Gilbey midwifery as a career choice to to-day work of a midwife and after deceased patients with and Steve Caffery young people. the qualifications needed.” Anthem | Summer 2012 15 Support for first time mums to be A new service especially for young is focused on encouraging a first time mums has been set up healthy lifestyle for themselves across Hartlepool and North Tees. and their baby, their child’s health The new service, which is being and development and supporting put into place all over the country, parents to plan for their futures. is made up of a team of specially We begin regular visits in early trained nurses from North Tees pregnancy and continue this until and Hartlepool NHS Foundation the children are two years old. Trust who will work with young “We use materials and practical mums and their families to provide activities to work with mums, dads the support they need during and their family on understanding Macmillan lung cancer nurse specialist Tessa Fitzpatrick, consultant physician pregnancy and up to when their their baby, developing emotionally Richard Harrison and Macmillan lung cancer nurse specialist Jeanette Draffan child is two years old. and building positive relationships.” Family nurse supervisor Susan As well as being prepared for Hutchinson-Brown explained: “The being parents the family nurses prospect of becoming a young help young couples to become self- Special award mum, facing pregnancy and sufficient and plan for their future childbirth and having to look after once the baby is born. a baby can be overwhelming. Family nurse Anne Duggan Becoming parents at any age is continued: “It’s about building a for Tessa daunting so we’re here to help good trusting relationship with work on any concerns. the families and giving them the Macmillan lung cancer nurse to drive improvements for “The specialist advice and support opportunity to talk to us about specialist Tessa Fitzpatrick was patients at the trust. awarded the Queen Mother’s In addition to her daily work, Award for outstanding service Tessa teaches at the local to community nursing at the hospice and University, and prestigious Queen’s Nursing has co-founded the North East Institute’s Awards in London. Lung Cancer Nurses Group Tessa, who is one of longest- and the National Lung Cancer serving Macmillan lung cancer Forum for Nurses, providing nurse specialist in the country encouragement and motivation was nominated for the award by for the nurse members. She her colleagues. She established speaks at local and national the Macmillan North Tees lung conferences, and uses her cancer nursing service 14 years knowledge, experience and ago, with the aim of supporting skills to support not only nurses, patients, whose prognosis but members of other health is particularly poor, and their and social care professions. families from diagnosis to end of She was overwhelmed to life and through bereavement. see her friends and colleagues Friends and colleagues gather at a farewell lunch for Alan Reeder (centre) gathered at a surprise presentation in the lung health department, she said: “ Colleagues turn out in force Tessa is an ideal nurse Tessa’s nomination from in every respect, a Macmillan lung cancer nurse to say farewell to Alan role model and an specialist Jeanette Draffan June saw the retirement of and said: “Alan’s clinical and Macmillan occupational consultant medical physicist opinion has always been highly amazing attribute to therapist Helen Caudren said: Alan Reeder and the ultrasound esteemed and he has always the department. “Her approach to work goes meeting room at the University gone about his work in a highly far beyond the level which Hospital of North Tees was professional manner.” She designed a service that would ordinarily be expected packed to the rafters as Agreeing with this, consultant covered both hospital and from her role and it is this which friends and colleagues came radiologist Matthew Trewhella community settings, so that makes Tessa so outstanding to say farewell. said: “Alan has always been a patients would have continuity and truly inspirational.” Alan had worked at North fountain of knowledge, and I of care wherever they went. Consultant physician Richard Tees since the opening of the can put this down to him being She also introduced a support Harrison added: “Tessa is an first regional medical physics a long term supporter of the group for patients with lung ideal nurse in every respect, department sub unit in 1982. staff restaurant. I was always cancer, and one for patients a role model and an amazing Fellow consultant medical told – if you need to know with mesothelioma, and she attribute to the department. She physicist Bob Ardley thanked anything – ask Alan! He will be chairs a user group which helps truly deserves this award” him for his continued support greatly missed.”

16 Anthem | Summer 2012 Stockton Mayor Support for first shows her support time mums to be for trust The Mayor of Stockton showed her support for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, by signing up as a member.

Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Lynne Apedaile joins more than 11,200 people who are already members of the trust. She said: “I hope my support Family nurses team – Jan Finn, Ann Yale, Anne Duggan, Helen Hall and supervisor will encourage others to sign up Susan Hutchinson-Brown as members.” anything that they might be People can find out more about Director of human resources concerned about. the family nurse partnership by and education / company “The programme is still really new, speaking to their community secretary Clare Curran said: but we know that many young midwife, who can put them in “We are delighted to welcome women, their partners and families touch with a family nurse. the Mayor of Stockton as a will benefit from the support the Alternatively you can call the team member of the trust. programme has to offer.” on 01429 522626. “As a member of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust you will join thousands of other like minded people who Symposium is a support our work. “You will have the opportunity to: • help improve your local • receive your personal copy of great success services Anthem magazine • receive regular information The newly opened Hartlepool College of about the trust Further Education was the venue in June • stand for election to become Our membership office a governor for a symposium on foot and ankle. is always pleased to • attend annual general meetings and member events The full day event, organised were several presentations hear from people who • just offer your support to the and presented by consultant looking at the anatomy of may be interested in trust and its services radiologist Peddada Raju the foot and ankle, injuries, becoming a member of “Membership is free and you attracted 68 delegates including and the benefits of ultrasound will have instant access to physiotherapists, podiatrists in diagnosis. the trust. NHS Discounts once you’re and orthopaedic surgeons from Also presenting at the registered and the chance to be around the region. symposium were consultant entered into a prize draw. Included in the programme radiologist Matthew Trewhella, “Our membership office is orthopaedic consultant Sanjeev Anand and several consultants always pleased to hear from from our neighbours at James people who may be interested Cook University Hospital. in becoming a member of Paddada Raju’s light hearted the trust” and at times humorous delivery Anyone who is over the age of kept the delegates enthralled 16 and lives in Stockton on Tees, and consultant physiotherapist Hartlepool, Sedgefield, Peterlee AtleKarstad who attended and Easington can become the event said: “The event a member by contacting the was a great success, this is a membership office on 01642 fantastic venue and not only 383765, [email protected]. was the symposium informative uk or by completing the online but the presentations were application form at http://www. Peddada Raju very entertaining.” nth.nhs.uk/joinustoday

Anthem | Summer 2012 17 New location for heart diagnostic unit Patients with heart problems easier for patients to access. are set to benefit from the Cardiac investigations manager new cardiac investigation unit Louise Tindall said: “The at the University Hospital new location of the cardiac of Hartlepool. investigation unit provides much The department, which carries improved facilities for patients. out heart tests and runs the “It’s on a ground floor location rapid access chest pain and conveniently near to general clinics, was previously known outpatients, phlebotomy and Echocardiographer Charlotte Rickard, cardiac investigations manager Louise Tindall as ECG and was located on surgical pre-assessment and consultant cardiologist Helen Oxenham, specialist echocardiographer Steven the third floor within the main the medical rehabilitation unit, Hodgson, Ken Oliver from Philips Healthcare and echocardiographer Debra Stoddart ward block. which recently moved into its The department is now known new home next door. as the cardiac investigation unit “The new department is clean, Patients will benefit and can be found right at the bright and welcoming. It will front of the main hospital, which dramatically improve the service from advanced makes the department much for our patients.” heart test The arrival of a state of the art echocardiograms are an accurate machine means a new range of way of identifying whether tests is available for patients with patients with chest pain have heart problems at North Tees and significant heart problems and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. avoids the need to use tests The stress echocardiogram that involve exposure to radiation test will help doctors diagnose or X rays. and treat coronary artery “The tests we can run with this disease, giving accurate echocardiograph machine are assessments, so patient’s heart more accurate than standard ECG problems can be diagnosed tests and are suitable for patients and treated appropriately. who would not be able to perform This is the first time the test a standard treadmill test. has been available at the trust “This new machine allows us to and as a result patients will take a series of images using no longer have to travel to ultrasound to see how the heart James Cook University Hospital works under stress compared to in Middlesbrough for the day when it’s at rest. case assessment. “The treadmill tests are still carried Consultant cardiologist Helen out where appropriate, but the Oxenham, who is leading the stress echocardiograms help us to service at the trust said: “Stress see things even more clearly.” Pulse checks at hospital

A team of cardiac nurses offered visitors Hartlepool and get their pulse checked. free pulse checks during Arrhythmia Cardiac specialist nurse Liz Harbron said: Awareness Week. “Pulse checks are one of the most effective Members of the public got the chance to ways of identifying heart abnormalities by pick up information about a wide range of monitoring regularity, strength and speed. heart problems all week from the stands “This was a great opportunity to raise in the foyer at the University Hospital of awareness about heart rhythm disorders and North Tees and the University Hospital of provide support and advice.”

Cardiac specialist nurse Christine Lett

18 Anthem | Summer 2012 Heart and health specialists get Bill fighting fit A bus driver who suffered a heart attack is fighting fit, thanks to health specialists at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust who have helped get him back on track to leading a healthier lifestyle. Fifty two year old Bill Murray from Norton recalls “Making sure that patients are helped along the the day he had a heart attack. He said: “I was at way to recovery is so important. Bill had already Newcastle airport and I was getting on the plane started his cardiac rehabilitation in hospital. It’s to Egypt. I had no warning signs. I’d just eaten a programme, which is run in phases. It helps breakfast and I thought I just had indigestion. people with a heart condition to look at their life, “I was really lucky there were two firemen, who make any necessary changes, and avoid further were obviously trained in first aid nearby, who problems and to get back to normal. looked after me until the paramedics arrived to take me to the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle. “They discovered I had a serious blockage in the main artery to my heart and put in two stents to open it up. I was in intensive care and in The support and advice from hospital for a week.” Bill who has three grandchildren and has been Wendy has not only helped me married to Marion for 31 years is an ex-smoker, look at my diet and eat and has a family history of heart disease. Until one year before his heart attack, father of healthier, but it is something two, Bill would smoke about 40 cigarettes which has changed mine and each day, weighed 17stone 4lb and led an unhealthy lifestyle. my wife’s lifestyle. Following a further blocked artery, Bill was quickly taken to The James Cook University “Phase one is the part which starts in hospital. Hospital in Middlesbrough. This time he was in It can be a worrying time, so it’s important that and out within the next day. the patient and their family receive information, When Bill got home he was visited by the advice and reassurance about their condition. cardiac rehabilitation specialist nursing team “Phase two takes place just after the patient Bill at Thornaby Pavilion with senior health trainer from the trust. leaves hospital. It’s about reviewing their Wendy Jefferies Cardiac rehabilitation specialist nurse Jackie progress. It’s at this point that our community McCabe said: “When you imagine a heart cardiac rehabilitation team steps in. specialist nurses and all of the health attack, you picture yourself grabbing your chest “We work with the patients during phase three professionals who have helped me enough. and being in intense pain, almost like you see of the rehabilitation programme. It’s an eight ”My diet was poor before my heart attack. on the TV, but for Bill, like many people it was week exercise and education programme, I’d eat most things that were bad – too much very different. tailored to meet the needs of people like Bill, buttered bread, salt and fried eggs every day. who have suffered heart problems. I would eat that because I enjoyed it. I never “It’s co-ordinated by the cardiac rehabilitation ate breakfast. I would never eat fruit or veg and nurse specialists and run with exercise specialists didn’t do any exercise. at a local leisure gym. Bill came along to the “The support and advice from Wendy, has not programme we run at Thornaby Pavilion. only helped me look at my diet and eat healthier, “It’s gentle exercise, which starts with a warm- but it is something which has changed mine and up, in a safe, monitored environment. It’s about my wife’s lifestyle. I’m now down to 15 stone gradually building up the amount of exercise our 2lbs and I eat healthy regular meals. patients can do.” “I now enjoy exercising. I’ve met people through To get Bill back on the road to a healthier the cardiac rehabilitation group who I regularly lifestyle, senior health trainer Wendy Jefferies see at the gym. has worked with the team. Wendy explained: “Wendy has been fantastic supporting me with “Lifestyle changes, diet and nutrition were my exercise. She gives encouragement and some of the things we needed to look at. praise to keep going. My small goals gradually “It’s not easy to change the habits of a lifetime, turned into bigger goals. I started off just doing but Bill has proved that with the right support one minute on the treadmill, then built up and guidance, you can make healthier choices gradually, one minute at a time. that can make a big difference. “Nothing has been too much trouble for any of “We created a plan for Bill to change his portion the team, who have been willing to go above sizes and look at healthier recipes”. and beyond to help me change my lifestyle Because of Bill’s attitude and determination, he around for the better.” now jogs five miles twice a week and enjoys a If you want help to start leading a healthier Cardiac rehabilitation specialist nurse Jackie McCabe regular session in the gym at Thornaby Pavilion. lifestyle you can contact the trust’s health checks Bill’s blood pressure Bill said: “I can’t thank the cardiac rehabilitation trainers on (01642) 383833. Anthem | Summer 2012 19 Happy Diamond Jubilee

Jubilee fun at Rainbow nursery Children at Rainbow nursery at the University Hospital Sue is queen Children enjoy the Jubilee celebrations of Hartlepool joined in the Jubilee celebrations with for the day Children’s their very own street party. Children played party games, read stories Staff in the nursing directorate swapped and made chocolate crispy cakes and iced their normal lunch for traditional tea party ward holds biscuits to look like flags. fayre to celebrate the Queen’s diamond jubilee. Among the goodies on offer were jam sandwiches, traditional salmon paste and Jubilee party cucumber sandwiches, blancmange, sweets and cakes. Staff got into the swing by dressing in red, white and blue and they even crowned The children’s ward at the director of nursing patient safety and quality University Hospital of North Tees Sue Smith queen as she joined the team for the celebration lunch. celebrated the Diamond Jubilee Senior nurse, practice placements, Jean Angus with a special party. said: “We thought it would be a great idea to put on a jubilee lunch for the department Hospital play specialist Claire Wise said: “The instead of going for lunch as usual. Everyone party marked a great occasion and at the same joined in and brought things which reminded time cheered up the children. After putting the Nursery children and staff enjoy the party tea them of traditional teas and parties they’d had bunting up, everyone enjoyed the fun filled day as children. Everyone really enjoyed it, then it with games and party food.” was back to work as usual for the afternoon!” The emergency assessment unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool

Staff in the Rutherford Morrison unit at the The jubilee ladies of University Hospital Mandale House of Hartlepool.

20 Anthem | Summer 2012 George becomes the first to sign up to research trial A patient from Hartlepool has become the first to sign up to a new research trial for people with diabetes.

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS is a long-term chronic condition Foundation Trust is encouraging caused by too much glucose in more patients with diabetes to join the blood. Early symptoms include George and take part in a research extreme thirst, going to the toilet trial that may help to improve more often, extreme tiredness, treatments in the future. weight loss and blurred vision. Diabetes research nurse, Sharon Symptoms are not obvious and Stevens is leading the trial at develop over a long time. the trust which looks at bacteria “It is more common in people over taken from a swab of a foot ulcer 40 however we’re seeing younger and bacteria taken from a small people with the condition. People piece of skin from the middle of are at risk if they’re overweight and the wound. they’re more likely to get it if they It is being done to determine if have a close relative who has it and these two different ways of taking leads a similar lifestyle. bacteria from foot ulcers give the same answers, or if one is better than the other. It is expected that one will give a more of an accurate treatments in the future.” Sharon continued: “The clinical picture of the bacteria that is I see diabetes nurses and Sharon continued: “Once George trials we run for patients with causing the problems. podiatrists regularly gave his consent to take part in the diabetes are all about developing George Brown, 72 from the Owton research trial, we took a swab and treatments in the future. Manor area of Hartlepool was because of my condition. I a tissue sample from the bed of his “Patients, who take part in diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can’t speak highly enough foot ulcer at his appointment at the a research study, might just three years ago. of the staff. They are all University Hospital of Hartlepool. do something as simple as The former shipyard worker and “We want to be able to provide our completing a questionnaire and great granddad first discovered absolutely fantastic. patients with the best treatment. other studies may take months he had type 2 diabetes after he Different bacteria can cause to complete. But every study is had a problem with his foot. He “Like George has experienced, diabetic foot infections, so taking important and can make a big had developed Charcot foot – a damage to the nerves and feet are a wound specimen sample is an difference to the treatments serious foot abnormality suffered common. About one in 10 people important part of patient care. patients receive in the future. by some diabetic patients. The with diabetes get a foot ulcer, “This research study is comparing “We’re extremely grateful to all of condition is caused due to nerve which in some patients can cause two different methods used for our patients, like George, who take damage from high blood glucose serious infections.” collecting some bacteria from an part in research. Without patients levels. The nerve damage causes George said: “When I heard about infected wound. who are willing to take part, we the bones to weaken, causing the research trial, I was interested “The bacteria samples from wouldn’t be able to develop and multiple fractures which eventually in becoming involved. I hope that the ulcer will be examined in explore new options for treatments leads to deformity. by doing this other people with the laboratory to show the through trials like this. Sharon explained: “Type 2 diabetes diabetes could benefit from new most appropriate sampling “I would like to encourage more technique to be used when patients with diabetes to become collecting a specimen. involved in research. It can be really “Patients need to meet a certain helpful to the patients in helping criteria to be able to take part. them understand more about their They need to have type 1 or type condition and their treatment too.” 2 diabetes, have a foot ulcer Research and development which has an infection. We expect manager Jane Greenaway said: to get results back fairly quickly “We are delighted to have so many for this trial.” patients signed up to take part George also believes that healthy in research trials and these eating is helping him with his numbers have more than doubled condition. He continued: “Living in the past year. with type 2 diabetes means I have “We’re constantly trying to to have insulin injections twice recruit more patients with various a day and I’m on medication for health conditions across different blood pressure. departments in the trust.” “I see diabetes nurses and If anyone would like to find out more podiatrists regularly because of about how they can take part in my condition. I can’t speak highly this research trial, they can contact enough of the staff. They are all diabetes research nurse Sharon George signs up to the research trial with diabetes research nurse Sharon Stevens absolutely fantastic.” Stevens on (01642) 624108. Anthem | Summer 2012 21 Physiotherapist selected for London Olympics A specialist physiotherapist has been A visit from Lisa and the Olympic torch cheered up poorly children on the children’s ward. Lisa is pictured with Courtney Vasey given the once in a lifetime opportunity to work at the London Olympics. Inspirational Femke Nauschutz, who works at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, applied in Lisa carries 2010 and went through a tough 18-month application process to the torch be selected from thousands of applicants to work as a volunteer at the Olympic Games in London Hospice, attends hundreds of this summer. charity events, fundraising in the costume collecting funds. Femke, who lives in Durham, Lisa carried the torch 300 graduated from the University of metres along Easington Road Stellenbosch, in South Africa 20 and Raby Road in Hartlepool years ago and has since gained where crowds of people along years of experience in musculo- with her family and friends skeletal and sports physiotherapy, gathered to cheer. working in her private practice Lisa said: “It was so exciting to and the NHS. be a torchbearer. I think being a torchbearer is quite a big achievement. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. “I will never stop supporting many thousands of applicants the Butterwick Hospice. It gave I’d like to thank is a dream come true. It’s the me so much care when I was An inspirational, kind hearted my colleagues at the ill and it’s nice to know that opportunity of a lifetime and fundraiser and health there is a place like it for people trust for supporting I’m really excited about working professional was chosen to turn to.” me with this with Olympic athletes.” from thousands to carry the Lesley, who nominated Lisa, As part of the team, Femke Olympic torch. fantastic opportunity. said: “Lisa is extremely needs to be prepared for any Lisa Askew, from Stockton, inspirational to women, situation during the games and who works as a health care cancer sufferers and she has been to a number of assistant at the University Originally from Holland, she survivors everywhere.” training days in preparation. Hospital of North Tees was later moved to South Africa, nominated to take part in the before moving to the UK 11 She continued: “I’ll be spending relay by fellow charity fundraiser years ago. She has since three weeks in London and I will Lesley Baxter. gained a postgraduate diploma miss my family, who have been Her inspirational attitude after in orthopaedic medicine and incredibly supportive. battling cervical cancer and the injection therapy and an MSc “I’d like to also thank my fact she has raised thousands in sports and exercise injury colleagues at the trust for for the Butterwick Hospice in management from Leeds supporting me with this Stockton, was the catalyst for Metropolitan University. fantastic opportunity.” the nomination. She said: “It is a fantastic Therapy services lead Steve Lisa, who is five years in honour to be selected to work Pett said: “We are absolutely remission in August, tirelessly at such a big sporting event. thrilled that Femke has been campaigned to have the age for I’ve always dreamed of working selected for this position at the cervical screening in England at the Olympics. With years of 2012 Olympic games, it is a lowered from 25 to 20 and great honour for her personally, was an ambassador for Cancer experience working with people with sports injuries, it really can’t but also for the trust to have Research UK. She is the official Lisa visits the nursery at the mascot “Bea” for Butterwick University Hospital of North Tees get any better than this. our professionals recognised at “To actually be selected from so this level.” 22 Anthem | Summer 2012 Going for gold in the NHS 2012 challenge The 2012 Olympic games is just around the corner and the trust has been encouraging more staff to improve their health, wellbeing and fitness. Chief executive Alan Foster said: “We’ve been looking for 2,012 staff to say they’re going to do something to improve their lifestyle. I’m delighted that so many staff have joined me in signing the pledge. “Physical activity and sport are a great relief of stress and effectively helps us all feel well. The NHS 2012 challenge is all about encouraging staff to take up activities which will improve their health and fitness, whether that’s stopping smoking, losing a bit of weight or taking the stairs instead of the lift. “We want to support our staff to lead a healthy lifestyle and join in the challenge.”

Dougal heads to Newcastle for Olympic volunteering Consultant in emergency medicine Dougal Southward (pictured) hasn’t got far to go for his Olympic volunteer stint. Dougal, who works in accident and emergency and has an interest in sports medicine, has been selected to work as a sports medicine doctor during the games at the football tournament based Chief executive Alan Foster has been riding around in Newcastle. the streets of Durham on the light evenings He will work 11 voluntary shifts providing Communications manager John Blakey has been sports medicine cover for the polyclinics climbing the stairs instead of taking the lift. In just two months he had climbed the equivalent staged at the team hotels. of Ben Nevis Dougal said: “I will be leading the sports medicine team at the training venues. FIFA and IOC regulations state that, for tournaments like this, a full medical pitch- side retrieval team is available when any training is taking place. “I will be providing sports medicine services for the teams on match days at St James’s Park on 26 and 29 July. The match on 26 July is high profile because it is taking place before the Olympics officially start. “The Olympic Games in Britain is the closest many of us are ever going to get to a major worldwide sporting event and to be part of the medical team supporting Head of workforce planning and quality Lesley the games is a unique chance that is Pritchard, education and development facilitator unlikely to come round again for me. Janet Varga and HR manager Alison Wilson “It is important as part of my sports completed the Sport Relief three miles, they’re medicine development to be involved with picture here with the Mayor of Redcar Community cardiac dietitian Elaine Tennant and a multidisciplinary team at St James’s diabetes dietitian Anna Lumsdon completed the Edinburgh 10k Park, the training grounds and hotels working with not only the other volunteers (physiotherapists, masseurs and sports therapists) but also the visiting team medical staff. “I am looking forward to once again Patient relations manager David Piggott (pictured working in professional football and second right) and physiotherapist Gavin Baker only hope to be able to see some of the (pictured second left) completed a 15mile walk action at the ground (and not locked away around Farndale, North Yorkshire, with family and under the stands in a treatment room friends. They’ve raised about £400 for Corey’s Smile doing nothing!).” which is part of Children’s Cancer Research

Anthem | Summer 2012 23 Thank you events take on a jubilee theme

The trust said thank you to its army of volunteers who give up their time to help. Thank you events - with a special jubilee theme - were held at the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool for all of our volunteers and members of the NHS Retirement Fellowship. Chairman Paul Garvin hosted the events and was joined by other members of the senior management team and governors in the hospital’s restaurants where volunteers were treated to a meal provided by the trust’s catering team. He said: “It’s excellent for me as chairman to have an opportunity to say a formal thank you to the volunteers. This is just a small way of recognising the incredible amount of voluntary work which goes on in the trust. Our volunteers add something very special to the hospital, the work they do makes such a difference to staff, patients and visitors and we are

24 Anthem | Summer 2012 Thank you events take on a jubilee theme

very grateful for their efforts.” The events had a few extra touches to them this year to mark the Queen’s diamond jubilee. Guests joined in by wearing red, white and blue – some of them even went the whole way and wore tiaras or crowns! A concert party of 10 members of staff provided entertainment with some familiar songs that got everyone singing along. The trust is lucky enough to have hundreds of volunteers, many who have supported the trust for many years. Volunteers play a valuable role and can do from two hours a week to as many hours as they can spare. The hours and duties are adapted to fit in with the lives and the interests of the volunteer, with some working during the days and some in the evenings or weekends. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please email [email protected]

Anthem | Summer 2012 25 Read all about it! Think of a library and the image issue and return books outside that comes to mind is usually of staff hours. of a large room lined with Librarian Madeleine Smith said: shelves of dusty books. That “The new facilities are fantastic, is no longer the case at the both libraries are now bright and trust as the libraries at both airy and provide a comfortable the University Hospital of environment in which to study. Hartlepool and the University “Members now have access Hospital of North Tees have to almost 20,000 books in the recently been moved and given trust libraries with a further a makeover to bring them bang 26,000 titles available through up to date. the County Durham and Tees Now rebranded as the library Valley Health Libraries Alliance.” and information service, the Both libraries are equipped with library at North Tees is now networked computers through based in the South wing and which registered staff can the library at Hartlepool can be access over 3000 healthcare found in the Hart building. related journals through NHS Stay safe in Both libraries now have 24 Evidence, This makes high- hour access thanks to a self quality, up to date evidence service machine which can available to all staff regardless the sun be used by registered staff to of job role or hospital location. The occupational health on hand to offer advice while staff department highlighted the could test their knowledge on sun importance of protecting safety to be in with a chance of against skin cancer at a sun winning a prize. awareness event. Health and wellbeing advisor The event made people aware Maureen Wales (pictured) said: how to stay safe in the sun and “With the weather getting the dangers of skin cancer. The warmer, this was a great occupational health team were opportunity to raise awareness. The risk of getting skin cancer can simply be reduced by protecting your skin while you’re out in The risk of getting skin the sun with clothing, by staying out of the sun between the cancer can simply be hours of 11am and 3pm and by using at least SPF15 sun cream to Director of human resources and education Clare Curran with librarian Madeleine reduced by protecting Smith (centre) and staff from education learning and development and design and your skin while you’re protect yourself.” development departments at the opening of the North Tees library To find out more advice go to out in the sun. www.sunsmart.org.uk Have you got the S factor? An expert in disease of the joints Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is see the signs which could mean and tendons is urging people to supporting Arthritis Research UK’s inflammatory arthritis: see their GP early if they have have you got the S factor campaign “There is now evidence that the three symptoms of what could be whose simple message could save sooner inflammatory arthritis inflammatory arthritis. a person a life time of disability. is diagnosed and treatment has Consultant rheumatologist Vipul The poster gives the things to looks begun, the better the results for Vigadia from North Tees and out for: the patient. • stiffness – early morning joint “The message is that people stiffness lasting over 30 minutes should see their GP straightaway if • swelling – persistent swelling they have these three S factors so of one joint or more, especially they can get the correct diagnosis hand joints and, if inflammatory arthritis is • squeezing – squeezing the joints diagnosed, begin treatment as is painful In young adults the S factors to look soon as possible. out for are related to spinal pain and The S factor campaign by Arthritis stiffness lasting more than three Research aims to get this message months and urges people to see over and Dr Vigadia is working with their GP if they can tick four of five GPs in primary care to ensure possible signs. patients have access to a specialist Vipul said: “The S factor campaign is for a fast diagnosis and treatment. simple but very effective. Basically You can find out more at www. it reminds people what to do if they arthritisresearchuk.org

26 Anthem | Summer 2012 Neonatal conference attracts delegates from 26 countries Teesside was the venue for a prestigious conference hosted jointly by North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust and South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Five stars The conference, now in its 20th year, has become an important annual event on the neonatal calendar. This year it attracted more for Wilbers than 200 delegates from 26 countries across All smiles from catering staff Dawn and the globe. Lorraine from the Wilbers cafe at the The four day conference covered a wide University Hospital of Hartlepool as they range of aspects of caring for premature look at the certificate they’ve been given and sick babies and drew its panel of Samir Gupta (left) with president of the British from Hartlepool Council and the Food Association of Perinatal Medicine Malcolm Chiswick. experts from the world’s leading neonatal Standards Agency. Wilbers cafe was rated and consultant neonatologist Win Tin from The James units and universities. Cook University Hospital 5 - very good - in a recent inspection Consultant neonatologist Samir Gupta, who by Hartlepool Council’s public protection has recently been invited to speak at an is well and truly on the map and it is famous service for its hygiene standards. The international conference about problems across the world for drawing in experts who cafe, run by the trust’s own catering staff, with babies’ hearts and circulation, said: “The are leading lights in the field of neonatal care. provides a wide range of drinks and snacks equal to any high street coffee outlet and annual Middlesbrough neonatal conference “We are very fortunate to have such esteemed colleagues as consultant is popular with visitors and staff alike. neonatologist Professor Sunil Sinha at South Commercial director Kevin Oxley said: “I’m extremely proud of our Wilbers Tees who has founded and directed this coffee shops and our fantastic staff conference for the past 20 years. I worked who not only provide a great service with him while at South Tees and I cannot but have also shown their dedication to speak too highly of him. keeping hygiene standards as high as they “It speaks volumes about the reputation of possibly can be by being awarded top our units, both at The James Cook University marks by the inspectors.” Hospital and at the University Hospital of North Tees, that neonatal experts and delegates are prepared to travel thousands of miles to Teesside to share and learn about the latest I’m extremely proud of our advances in neonatal care. A delegate tries out a ventilation technique watched “There’s no doubt that we benefit from this Wilbers coffee shops and our and guided by Professor Colin Morley, former director learning and sharing and the babies cared for fantastic staff. of neonatal medicine in Melbourne, Australia at both units also benefit as a result.” Historic Quay sees gathering of fertility experts Hartlepool Historic Quay was the “It was a pleasure and a privilege you. You can find out more about Tarek El-Toukhy, medical director venue for a prestigious conference to be joined by three such the assisted reproduction unit at and consultant in reproductive on the latest developments in eminent experts in this field and www.nth.nhs.uk/aru. medicine, CARE Fertility fertility. The conference organised the large audience, who very Pictured with Hany Mostafa Group, George Ndukwe and by the trust’s assisted reproduction much enjoyed the setting of (second from the right) are (left to consultant obstetrician and unit, was delighted to welcome the Hartlepool Historic Quay, right) consultant on reproductive gynaecologist at SheffieldTeaching three key speakers, each with certainly learned a great deal medicine at Guy’s and St Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust a national and international about the latest thinking and Thomas’s NHS Foundation Trust Professor TC Li. reputation in the world of research in this area. The team fertility services. in our assisted reproduction unit Lead clinician for the assisted has certainly benefited from the reproduction unit, based at the knowledge and expertise of our University Hospital of Hartlepool, speakers and we know it will Hany Mostafa said: “There is new further improve the service we research and new developments can provide to couples who are in fertility all the time. The desperate to become a family.” theme of our meeting was how The unit and the trust would like to overcome the problem of to thank the sponsors whose implantation failure. This is where support made the event possible. the embryo does not attach itself If you have been trying to have to the lining of the womb to a baby but without success our develop into a baby. expert team may be able to help

Anthem | Summer 2012 27 A t above – how 21st century surgery is benefiting North Tees and Hartlepool patients New techniques carried out by the trust’s surgical team mean less scarring for patients, a faster recovery and far shorter time in hospital. In this issue of Anthem we showcase two areas where ground breaking surgery has revolutionised the type of care the trust can provide and why trainee surgeons are queuing up to be trained here.

Shaun is 100th patient Shaun’s story At the age of only 42 the last thing anyone to benefit from leading suspected when Shaun started to see blood in the toilet was that edge surgical technique it could be caused by bowel cancer. Shaun A Norton man has become the 100th in the patient’s abdomen (tummy); in this explained: “I’d been to Turkey on holiday and patient to benefit from a leading edge case the hole which was made when Mr thought I might have surgical technique pioneered at the Stephenson had his original operation a food poisoning. I went to my GP who thought University Hospital of North Tees. year ago. it might be connected to the holiday. I had Shaun Stephenson, 44, had a colostomy Talvinder Gill said: “It is significant some medication which eased the symptoms reversal performed by consultant surgeon milestone for us to have performed the Talvinder Gill who specialises in this type for a while but then I started to feel really ill 100th procedure in this way. It is a again, went back to the GP who referred me of surgery. It involves passing all the highly skilled technique because all the instruments needed for a colonoscopy (an examination of the bowel). instruments we use enter the patient through a single hole It turns out I had a very aggressive form of through a single hole rather than by bowel cancer. making three or sometimes four small “I was referred to Mr Gill who, using this surgical holes in the patient’s skin to feed the technique, removed half of my colon. He even instruments through as in conventional apologised that my scar was a little bit bigger laparoscopic (key hole) surgery. than he’d intended though it’s right beside my “The technique benefits the patient belly button and I can hardly see it. Then I had because there are fewer scars. six months of chemotherapy. I was told there The carrying equipment for the was every possibility that my colostomy could instruments forms an air-tight seal on be reversed once I’d had my treatment and the the patient’s abdomen so there is far remaining colon had settled down. less chance of infection. Patients recover “Having this diagnosis has had a major effect on much more quickly. It takes longer to my work mates. I’ve never been embarrassed or perform the operation this way but that reluctant to talk about what’s happened and my work mates at Frutarom Chemicals in Seaton is balanced by the shorter length of stay Carew have started to think about and look after in hospital. their own health. “We have published our work world- “It’s been tough for the family, especially my wide and we believe we are performing partner Bernie, but I just took the view that I more single port operations than anyone had to fight it. I haven’t been worried at all. I one else. This is excellent news for have every faith in Mr Gill and the team at the patients who may wish to choose to University Hospital of North Tees and I know I’m have the surgery here because of the in good hands.” many advantages it provides.”

28 Anthem | Summer 2012 Andi’s got her sparkle back thanks to leading edge surgery

A woman from Eaglescliffe is making a good recovery following leading edge surgery at the University Hospital of North Tees. Andi Foxton (pictured), 39, was referred by her GP Eaglescliffe Health Centre GP Simon Stockley to one of the trust’s rheumatologists Vipul Vigadia. Andi said: “I knew there was something wrong last October which is why I went along to my GP. I was feeling thirsty all Structured training the time and had no energy. My skin and nails were affected and my hair was programme proves popular falling out.” Rheumatologist Vipul Vagadia diagnosed Andi with Ehlers-Danlos hypermobility syndrome which is a disorder of the body’s connective with surgical trainees tissue. He also identified that Andi was having issues her body’s ability A training programme, specially the trust on the map. to make calcium and referred her to surgeon Vijay Kurup (pictured). designed to meet the needs “It is good for the trust and “When I was told I needed an operation to remove a non cancerous of today’s surgical trainees, its reputation, it’s good for growth on my parathyroid glands – the glands responsible for making is proving very popular in the the trainee because they are calcium – I was imagining large scars on my neck, a lot of discomfort Northern Deanery. receiving the appropriate levels of and a long stay in hospital. I was scared and asked if there were any The training programme, led by training for their skills and last but other options but there weren’t. Everyone was lovely though and consultant surgeon Vijay Kurup, not least it is good for patients to they took time to explain things clearly and simply which made me provides operating lists with know that our trainees are very feel very reassured.” carefully selected patients where carefully supervised to ensure Andi, who is married and mum to two young sons, came into trust surgeons can support they receive very high levels of hospital and had an operation on the same day. Instead of an open trainee surgeons to become patient safety and care.” operation surgeon Vijay Kurup used a minimally invasive (or keyhole) competent and confident as Core surgical trainee Ian King technique, carrying out the whole procedure through one tiny incision they build up their skills. The in the front of Andi’s neck. The incision, carefully placed so it will be added: “Historically, it used to trainees are at least three years be that you would see one, do invisible when healed, allowed the surgical team access to the gland further through their training one, teach one. Modern surgery which had developed a calcified tumour about the size of an almond than final year medical is quite different. Mastering to be removed. students and the programme surgical techniques takes practice She added: “One day after the operation I woke up feeling fine. I will enable them, once they and an appreciation of anatomical could tell things were different. It was as if I’d got my sparkle back. have demonstrated they are “Now I just have to go to the practice to get the dressing changed fully competent – to carry out variability can only be learned and back to the hospital in six weeks to make sure everything’s ok.” operations on their own. through gradual, supervised Vijay Kurup said: “Using minimally invasive techniques results are far Associate specialist Manuf exposure and learning. less scarring, a shorter stay and faster recovery for the patient. We Kassem took core surgical “Among my group of trainees, are delighted to be the first trust in the region offering this technique trainee Ian King through a North Tees and Hartlepool for this type of surgery.” dedicated morning operating is definitely at the top of the list at the University Hospital list for structured training of Hartlepool. Manuf explained: opportunities. The structured “There were three patients on training programme provides the list all requiring hernia surgery. great opportunities to gain a In essence I demonstrate the thorough understanding of surgery and explain the whole surgical techniques which form procedure, anatomy and things a firm foundation for developing to look for as I go through the our careers as surgeons.” cases. At first the trainee will close the wound and I will supervise. As the surgeon’s skills increase he or she will do more and more of the operation under my supervision until I am satisfied they can work independently. “This training programme is proving extremely popular with trainees and we know we are a preferred centre for students as they go through their training. The structured training programme was devised by consultant surgeon Vijay Kurup who has a strong association with the Royal College of Surgeons. The training programme has definitely put

Anthem | Summer 2012 29 Passing the ball – Celia Stoddart and Shirley Wilson share an exercise session Geoffrey Bulmer passes the ball to health and fitness development officer Stuart Ramshaw Motiv8 sessions a great boost to body, mind and social life! A diagnosis of MS (multiple sclerosis) can high hopes for it being able to continue. condition every day and they want to take make a person feel very isolated. “It’s not only Claire Ward from North Tees and Hartlepool control and self-manage their illnesses in any isolating,” says 46-year-old Shirley Wilson from NHS Foundation Trust is the lead for the way possible, including exercise. Ingleby Barwick, “it presents many emotional project. She was responsible for setting up “It’s not just the exercise sessions and social problems as well as the obvious the programme, training and working themselves. People really appreciate the medical ones.” alongside Tees Active to get the project off friendships they’ve made over a coffee in But a new exercise session set up for people the ground. Claire is at every session at the the Forum cafe afterwards. At the end of the with neurological conditions in Billingham moment but, once the sessions are well day I can support people with a neurological Forum is making a real difference for the 45 established, they will largely run on their own. condition but it’s also important for people to people who have used it so far. The idea for She said: “The idea of holding the sessions realise they’re not on their own and they can Motiv8 came about when a patient at the in the Forum leisure centre is to take the get or give support as needed.” medical rehab day unit at the University of North emphasis away from it being a clinical session Meeting people Tees contacted Billingham Forum to see if they held in a hospital.” Robert Taylor, 61, from Stockton started having were interested in holding exercise sessions Buzz and excitement problems with his vision and a weakness in his for wheelchair users. The patient mentioned There’s a buzz and excitement in the air left leg in 2002. Former teacher Robert, who her idea to physiotherapist Serena Hartley who, before the session starts. Those attending now talks to doctors in training about living despite having moved on to a different trust, is have become friends and a support for each with the condition, was diagnosed with continuing to support the group. other. There’s plenty of laughter as health and progressive MS in 2005 when he started to fitness development officer Stuart Ramshaw have weakness in his right leg. tries to call order to get things underway. The He said: “I did the rehab classes in the hospital session can’t start properly until the music and that’s when I got to know Serena and the Everyone in this group accepts goes on – music brought along by one of team. When I was asked to talk to medical the group members to help the session go students I thought it would be great and really each other as they are. I feel so with a swing. help to give them some insight into what it’s much more positive about living Everyone starts a chair-based warm up and then like to live with MS; I like being involved. there are exercises dotted around the room “As well as the physical and psychological with MS. that people can do for a few minutes until it’s benefits of doing exercise the important part People affected by MS and all neurological time to move around the circuit. The exercises, was meeting other people. It gets me out of conditions were invited to join the steering which are all designed to improve stability, the house. It’s good to feel you’re not on your group, develop the idea further to help put the strength and stamina, are rated easy and hard. own any more.” bid together for funding. The sessions take People can decide themselves what they feel Giving something back place at Billingham Forum and staffing in the they can do; some days are better than others Eighty-four-year old Geoffrey Bulmer is so form of physiotherapist Claire Ward is paid for for people with neurological conditions. impressed with the support he has had since by NHS Tees and The Tees Neuro Forum. The Claire said: “To see this idea become reality his diagnosis he wanted to give something funding also paid for a specialist Motomed is a dream come true. It’s brilliant to see it back. He stood for election and now represents machine which allows wheelchair users to working so well. A brilliant idea from a person Stockton residents on the trust’s council of exercise their arms or legs as appropriate. affected by MS has grown into something very governors. Geoffrey said: “I had a stroke about Fundraising has begun for a second machine successful. And that success comes down to seven years ago which left me with balance because they are so helpful for people living the involvement we’ve had from our fantastic problems. I started walking with one stick, then with a neurological condition. steering group; people who have neurological two, then a walker. The project is funded until May and there are conditions themselves. They live with the “I like being involved and being an activist. 30 Anthem | Summer 2012 It’s a really friendly group and I diagnosed with MS. Celia, now enjoy the social side as well as 60, said: “In 1996 when I was the exercise. The big advantage is diagnosed everyone was telling that Claire can sort out any you to rest. Now it’s very different. problems as well. My walker I now have responsibility for my needed changing so she sorted that own health instead of feeling like out for me which was excellent. I had no control and it’s exercise I am doing a sponsored walk and that makes all the difference. With having my walker has really given MS you have good days and bad me the motivation to do it. I stood days. I used to go swimming when to be a governor because I wanted I had a relapse but it’s better to be to give something back for the care here in a safe environment where I’m receiving.” you can exercise at your own pace. Safe, targeted exercise I now concentrate on what I can Shirley Wilson from Ingleby do, not what I can’t do. Barwick started to have symptoms “I talk to other people who have in 2005 and was diagnosed with MS and support to them as they secondary progressive MS in come to terms with living with 2010. Though strong on her right their condition. I was on a self- side she was affected with MS management steering group for on her left side which caused her people affected by neurological foot to drop and she has since lost conditions. I enjoyed every minute Lesley says the feeling in right hand. of it and got a great sense of Shirley, 46, said: “I really like purpose from being involved. coming to the group. It’s easy “Everyone in this group accepts to feel isolated when you are goodbye after 35 each other as they are. I feel so diagnosed but coming to the much more positive about living exercises session is great. It’s important that we are in this gym with MS.” years in the NHS rather than the main gym. We Evaluation have safe, structured, targeted Claire added: “We’ve surveyed Ultrasonographer Lesley Taylor exercise which everyone can work people attending these sessions through at their own pace. We’re and the feedback has been really became princess for the day among like-minded people and positive. We need to see if it is when her colleagues gave The words I’d use the professionals are on hand if reducing visits to hospital because her a crown as part of her we need them. this was something we aimed for farewell gifts. for Lesley are hard “Like anyone going to the gym I when we applied for the money to There were tears and smiles as working, hard playing, really appreciate what they’ve got run the exercise sessions. friends and colleagues gathered on offer. It’s fantastic and really “We’re very much hoping the in the main x-ray department totally reliable and a sets me up for the week.” funding for the programme will at the University Hospital of true professional. Exercise is they key continue because it is making a Hartlepool to bid a fond farewell Times have changed since Celia difference to people living with to Lesley who, apart from a few on her lunchtime run in the Stoddart from Stockton was neurological conditions.” years working in Northallerton’s streets around the hospital. Friarage Hospital early in her She intends to keep running, career has called the University though she also looking forward Hospital of Hartlepool her home to spending more time in her for more than 30 years. villa in Spain. Lesley from Billingham started Selfless to the last Lesley asked her training in Hartlepool in that any donations towards a 1977 and, after three years at leaving gift were donated the Friarage between 1980 and instead to cystic fibrosis and 1983, returned to Hartlepool in Down’s syndrome charities. early 1984. A radiographer by So far these donations have background Lesley trained in reached over £200 for much ultrasound in 1998 and vascular needed good causes. ultrasound (looking at veins and Manager Brian Allen said: “The arteries) in 2000 and made a words I’d use for Lesley are hard major contribution to setting up working, hard playing, totally vascular services in Hartlepool. reliable and a true professional. Lesley, a keen runner who has I could always count on her to done many charity runs and do extra shifts to make sure our walks, could often be seen out patients got the services they needed. She’ll certainly be a big miss in the department but we wish her well for the future.” I’ve loved working with Lesley added: “I’ve loved working with everyone and just everyone and just want want to say thanks to everyone to say thanks for their for their friendship and support during my career.” friendship and support Very best wishes on your during my career. retirement Lesley! Claire at one of the exercise stations talking to Robert Taylor Anthem | Summer 2012 31 Consultant obstetrician/gynaecologist Alan Robertson Nurse specialist in pain management Brenda Slater Apprentice of the year Dee-Ann Readman was given long a term achievement award for his who was awarded nurse of the year work both in the trust and overseas Third year running for chemotherapy day unit The chemotherapy day unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool has been named team of the year in the Hartlepool Mail Best of Health awards for the third year running.

The glittering event, held at Hardwick Hall The trust was a sponsor of these awards once Hotel in Sedgefield, showcased nominations again and everyone who went along to the from grateful patients and their families awards night said how much they enjoyed for the care provided by staff from all areas the evening. The sponsor’s table hosted by chairman Paul Garvin of the health service in the Hartlepool Mail Congratulations to everyone who was (back, right) reader area. nominated and went on to win an award.

There was a special recognition award for the late Sue Holland who worked in district nursing in Hartlepool for more than 30 years and who sadly died shortly after her retirement. Friends and former colleagues paid tribute to her and the award was collected by her mother Dorothy Blair and her Team of the year – the chemotherapy day unit daughter Louise Harriman 32 Anthem | Summer 2012 Milestones reached in cardiology day unit Two important milestones have been reached in the University Hospital of Hartlepool’s cardiology day unit and Anthem was there to capture the moment…

Lead pacing physiologist Vivienne Hansell, unit manager Louise Tindall, pacing physiologist (and cake maker) Deborah Taylor, patient Charles Knaggs, consultant cardiologist Dr Justin Carter, sister Rachael Sanderson, radiographer Anna Newton and staff nurse Jennifer Griffiths Hospital’s 500th pacemaker patient

The University Hospital of heart patients. Flowers and Hartlepool has seen its 500th ”Using the latest type of pacemaker patient. pacemaker, weighing just a few Charles Knaggs, 79 from ounces, the small electronic smiles as Doreen Stockton needed a pacemaker device was implanted under because his heart rate was too Charles’ skin. When his heart slow and he had atrial fibrillation goes too slow or pauses, has 100th heart test - a heart condition that causes then the pacemaker sends an an irregular heart rate. impulse to the heart to remind it to beat. Seventy seven year old Doreen doctors to have a clear picture Plant has become the 100th of the heart and the way it “Charles had an overnight stay patient to have an examination is functioning from inside in hospital and after an x-ray commonly known as a TOE the patient’s body. The tube We’ve been carrying and a few checks to make sure at the University Hospital of allows images to be viewed everything was ok; he was able Hartlepool’s cardiology day on a computer screen. out the procedure at to go home.” unit. The procedure, which Consultant cardiologist the University Hospital To mark the occasion and to celebrate with Charles, pacing involves passing a tube in Helen Oxenham (front, right) of Hartlepool for three the patient’s gullet, allows presented Doreen with physiologist Deborah Taylor some flowers to mark the years and it’s making baked a chocolate cake, iced occasion. Doreen said: “I have a huge difference to with a picture of a pacemaker. a defective valve in my heart Charles added: “It went very heart patients. well and I’m feeling fine. The Without exception the and the doctor wanted to do this examination so she could celebration cake was a very nice staff in the unit have have a good look at it. Consultant cardiologist Justin unexpected surprise. been marvellous. They “Without exception the staff in Carter explained: “We’ve been “The staff went out of their the unit have been marvellous. carrying out the procedure way to make me feel at ease are very attentive and They are very attentive and at the University Hospital of and went out of their way very kind. very kind.” Hartlepool for three years and to make sure I had the best it’s making a huge difference to possible care.” Anthem | Summer 2012 33 Donations making a difference The chances are if you have ever you, for either their own care or of a room for adolescents in the relatives of patients who are been a patient in our hospitals that of a friend or relative. children’s ward as well as a range dying can stay overnight you will have benefited from Director of finance and information of chairs to add to patient and • refurbish a second meeting charitable donations. Lynne Hodgson said: “People visitor comfort. room where the teams of health While the NHS pays for the vast donate in many ways either by Assistant director for nursing, professionals looking after majority of equipment itself, wards taking part in walks or runs or quality and patient and public patients with cancer can discuss and departments right across the holding coffee mornings, tombolas engagement Barbara Carr said: care and treatment plans trust benefit from the generosity or raffles. More and more people “Organisations like the WRVS and • buy specialist recliner chairs for of many people who donate are taking advantage of our the League of Friends have shown elderly care wards money as a way of saying thank justgiving site where they can set support for our hospitals for many Jan added: “The family are up their own page and donate years and we are very grateful for delighted with everything we online knowing their money is their support.” have bought with this legacy and we are extremely grateful to the going directly where they want Legacy it to go. Under the present law person whose generosity will A £505,000 legacy from an help so many people.” tax payers can also gift aid their anonymous donor has been used donation which means the trust to benefit patients and families Just giving receives tax relief and therefore affected by cancer. Lead cancer If you would like to say thank you patients benefit even more. nurse Jan Harley said: “While the for the care you or a relative has “We also have people who family expressly wished not to be received then why not set up a page on http://www.justgiving. include us in their will and leave identified they did ask that we let com/northteesandhartlepool us a legacy. We very much people know what their relative’s nhsfoundation appreciate all of these things legacy - generously left in their will because they help us enhance the - had been used for.” patient experience. The legacy was used to: If you have a QR app on your “In the main we use charitable • buy diagnostic equipment for phone you can go straight funds to buy equipment but we cancers of the lung, colon, to the site by scanning this Lynne Hodgson also use it for research and to pay womb, ovaries, kidneys, bladder, QR code. for educational courses for staff digestive system who want to learn more about a • equipment to train medical staff particular area of healthcare which to carry out lung investigations will benefit our patients.” • provide some funding to the Long term support George Hardwick Foundation to The WRVS and the League of enable their cancer information Friends have raised hundreds of officer to work with the specialist thousands of pounds over the cancer nurses to ensure years for patients and their families. information about cancer is Last year the League of Friends available in all formats to patients donated over £26,000 for baby with cancer and their carers bereavement services, decoration • create a special room so

Jan Harley

Barbara Carr One little person who has benefited from your generosity 34 Anthem | Summer 2012 Mayor of Stockton Councillor Lynne Apedaile is pictured with hospital chaplain Lynn Purvis, chairman Paul Garvin and non executive director Ken Lupton who chairs the trust’s organ donation committee Celebration of life artwork unveiled A piece of artwork commissioned by North their loved one. A number of families placed Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust’s ribbons in the cabinet which was later blessed organ donation committee has been unveiled by hospital chaplain Lynn Purvis. at the University Hospital of North Tees by the The unveiling of the artwork coincided with Mayor of Stockton Councillor Lynne Apedaile. National Transplant Weeks theme - pass it The artwork was commissioned to remember on - which is encouraging people to not only and acknowledge those who had made the join the NHS organ donor register but also ultimate donation – the gift of life. ensure their friends and families are aware of Cleveland College of Art and Design students their wishes. Julie Easley and Liz O’Toole, who were awarded Chairman Paul Garvin, who hosted the event, the commission after their designs won the said: “This art installation is a poignant and approval of the organ donation committee, beautiful way for us to say thank you to captured the emotional aspects of organ everyone who has donated organs or tissues. donation in their designs and incorporated the It is a place for families to remember their brief in a warm and imaginative way. loved one and for everyone who sees it to think Detail from the artwork on the theme of giving and receiving The piece has two elements; a static piece about organ donation. We are eternally grateful on the theme of giving and receiving and to those who sign up for organ donation to a dynamic piece where families can leave help give life to others and we hold them and An identical work of art is to be installed at the mementoes as a token of remembrance to their families in our thoughts. University Hospital of Hartlepool. Recipient adds her token to the artwork Pharmacy technician Lou Bain is the Sidney) from her mum Judy, said never first donor recipient to place a memento a day goes past without her being in the newly unveiled organ donation grateful her mum and the family who artwork. In her very personal message agreed to organ donation which enabled Lou is watched by specialist nurse organ donation Lou, who received lungs 13 years ago and to breathe after years of living with Clare Fletcher a kidney (which she affectionately calls cystic fibrosis.

Anthem | Summer 2012 35 Focus on governors Anthem asks our governors what made them stand for the role and what it’s like to be a governor.

an awful lot. As the NHS Staff foundation trust regime is now embedded in the trust new governors governors are expected to Six members of staff sit on the get up to speed quickly. I was trust’s council of governors. Here’s delighted to take on the role what they have to say… as lead governor last year because I can now help and support new governors as they come through.” As well as serving on the trust’s council of governors Pat is also a member of the strategy, membership and service development and quality committees. Pat has also been to the Foundation Trust Network to talk about the role of the governor in the trust. She explained: “Governors from other trusts were surprised that I get involved in the patient experience and quality standards panels (a programme of visits to wards and departments in hospital John Rhodes and the community led by I have worked for the Trust since director of nursing and patient 1981 and I manage Stockton safety Sue Smith, designed quality control laboratory. The to ensure standards of quality laboratory supports pharmacy, and care are maintained radiopharmacy, assisted throughout the trust) but I think reproduction, sterile services this is an important part of my and estates departments in role. I actually get to see for the testing of clean rooms and myself that the things said products. An important element around the council of governors’ of my post is providing advice table about quality actually especially as technology and happen on the ground.” services to patients develop. I Asked if the role was what she represent staff as chair of staff Didn’t know what to expect, for something to keep her expected Pat said: “I had no idea side and felt that being a governor but very enjoyable, says lead interested and active when what to expect but I have found would allow me to broaden my governor Pat a leaflet dropped through the whole thing very enjoyable. representation by influencing the As one of the trust’s original her letterbox. “As lead governor I now get strategic direction of the trust. governors Pat Upton has gone She said: “I had no experience the chance to support other The trust has taken its up the learning curve about of being in hospital or of the governors. Working with responsibilities towards governors what it means to be an NHS health service at all really director of human resources and seriously and I was pleased to foundation trust alongside the but the role sounded very education/company secretary see that the relationships board of the trust who were interesting so I decided to Clare Curran we now have between management and also getting to grips with the stand for election. informal coffee mornings where new arrangements. “The first thing I’d say is it governors can meet and bring Pat was elected a public isn’t as easy as people think. It up issues they want to discuss. governor for Stockton in could have been quite daunting The council of governors My favourite part is 2007 when the trust was but we were all learning at meetings and sub committees first authorised as an NHS the beginning so things started don’t allow time for informal mixing with locality Foundation Trust. She had up slowly. discussion so this is a really governors and previously retired from teaching “The training and development important part of getting the maths at various schools in I and the other governors governors to contribute and work exchanging experiences the Stockton area. Not wishing received so we can carry out more effectively as a team. and aspirations for to let the grass grow under our role as governors has “I’ve made some good friends the trust and the her feet she was looking been excellent. I have learned too, which is an added bonus.” patients it serves. 36 Anthem | Summer 2012 governors developed in line with am still new to the role and the legislation and expectation. expectations however so far I This is largely due to the approach have thoroughly enjoyed it. I am by the then chairman Russell not 100% sure what I expected I enjoy meeting Hart and his legacy has been although I think I thought it was colleagues and continued by the current Chairman a lot of formal meetings when the diversity of the Paul Garvin. Readers will not be in fact the formal meetings are surprised that I volunteered for the the exception. There are lots of skills, knowledge and strategy group. My favourite part opportunities to be involved with experience they bring to is mixing with locality governors the public and staff. I am part of and exchanging experiences and the membership committee. My the trust. aspirations for the trust and the favourite part of being a governor patients it serves. so far is meeting the wide range of people across the trust from service users, volunteers, staff, and the public. I find it informative being a governor and in the trust and have input into being able to inform changes needed within the trust. So far I have enjoyed being a colleagues about what is governor and found the meetings happening in the trust. very interesting. I didn’t realise a lot of what went on within the trust where I have worked for so long. I have gained insight into much more of the services we provide. I don’t know what I expected when I stood for governor as I am still finding my feet but hope to have a greater Pat Ferguson contribution to meetings in the I have worked in the trust since future. I am currently a member 1988 and I work part time as of the service development and a health visitor in the trust but quality committee. I think more I also support our non-medical staff should stand for governor to enable staff on the shop Matt Wynne prescribers working in community floor to influence change within I am a therapy team lead and I have services. Additionally I am also the organisation. worked at the trust for 10 years. I a Royal College of Nursing wanted to try and ensure that the representative and work in close organisation is both challenged partnership with the trust to and supported appropriately support our staff. As community Debbie Gardener through the coming years in order services are now integrated into My job is as a domestic supervisor to achieve success. I wanted to the trust I was keen to become which I have been for nearly five represent the interests of the more involved, particularly as years; previously I was a catering local community and members of there is currently and emphasis supervisor for 12 years. I decided the trust and to share information on more care being provided in to become a governor so staff about important decisions the community. would be represented at all levels regarding the trust, its vision and Being a governor is extremely as we didn’t get any feed back as performance. Being a governor interesting and enjoyable. to what was being discussed. I find is an interesting experience. You It provides a very different it informative being a governor and get the opportunity to engage perspective on how and why being able to inform colleagues with both staff, service users the trust does what it does do about what is happening in the and the board on issues likely to through regular reports from trust. At the moment I don’t find a affect the local community. You lot of time for committees. I would our directors. Our quarterly trust are well supported in the role and members meetings also provide like to participate but as a full time encouraged to get involved. It is opportunities for governors and supervisor and non-driver would an opportunity to meet a range of public alike to have an insight find it difficult to keep absenting Nina Bedding people from the local community on how care is constantly being myself from my job and getting to I am an occupational therapy and from within the organisation. reviewed and improved though outside venues. My favourite part team leader and I have worked at I am a member of the travel and presentations by our clinicians. of being a governor is meeting the the trust for 12 years. I wanted to transport committee. other governors and finding out become involved in the strategic I am part of the nominations what is happening in the trust direction of the trust and be able committee, a sub-committee Carol Alexander to feedback thoughts and ideas at of the council of governors I have worked at the trust since appropriate times. I also wanted It is an opportunity to responsible for the appointment 1989 and I am ward matron in to be able to fully inform my team and retention of the chairman the stroke unit at the University and wider therapy department on meet a range of people and non-executive directors. I Hospital of North Tees. I decided the future direction and initiatives from the local enjoy meeting colleagues and to stand for governor so staff that were happening within the the diversity of the skills, who I work with could be made trust. I have only been a governor community and from knowledge and experience they more aware of what is happening since the start of this year so within the organisation. bring to the trust. Anthem | Summer 2012 37 Members hear about the latest developments in medicine At the last member from referral to treatment is An obese adult is classified as event members were treated longer than ideal. However, newly having a body mass index of to interesting presentations appointed Vipul Vigadia and his 30 or over (weight in kilograms from two of the trust’s colleagues are to begin a one stop divided by height in metres consultant physicians. clinic in Peterlee in September squared). Asian people have which will take the patient journey increased risk which appears to New developments in time down from months to a matter be associated with visceral fat rheumatology and arthritis of weeks. Once the pilot has been (body fat which surrounds the Consultant rheumatologist evaluated this will extend to internal organs even though the Sony Vipul Vagadia talked about Hartlepool and Stockton. person looks slim). Anthony developments in the speciality “In the UK almost a quarter of of rheumatology; the service The weight of the world working age people are classed • stroke which deals with diseases in the In a sometimes humorous as obese and this proportion • asthma joints. The two main reasons why but nevertheless serious continues to rise year on year; • back and leg problems and pain people have painful and swollen presentation consultant physician a higher percentage are classed • depression joints is osteoarthritis and Sony Anthony talked about as overweight (a body mass There is now also a proven link rheumatoid arthritis, and it is now the world’s obesity epidemic of 25 or over). Obesity in Hartlepool between obesity and cancer possible to differentiate between and how this was contributing and Stockton are higher than the He added: “Drugs on their the two by taking the patient’s to patients as young as eight national average and Easington own are not the solution history, a blood test and musculo years old now being diagnosed was recently identified as one of to treating type 2 diabetes. skeletal ultra sound scanning. with type 2 diabetes, which the country’s obesity blackspots.” Patients can make huge He said: “There is now evidence was previously only associated Sony Anthony talked about difference to the health if they that the sooner inflammatory with ageing. the illness and conditions alter their diet to a low fat one and arthritis is diagnosed and He said: “The word obesity comes which occur as a result of being take more exercise. treatment has begun, the better from the Latin obesus which means obese including: “We are now offering a bariatric the results for the patient. The to devour. It is defined as having a • type 2 diabetes surgery service jointly with South S Factor campaign by Arthritis very high amount of body fat in • hypertension Tees and Durham and Darlington Research aims to get this relation to lean body mass and is • obstructive sleep apnoea foundation trusts. The types of message over and I am keen to classified by the body mass index. • heart disease procedures used are gastric work with GPs in primary care to banding, sleeve gastrectomy and ensure patients have access to gastric bypass. a specialist for a fast diagnosis “These procedures, which and treatment.” effectively decrease the volume In rheumatoid arthritis patients of the stomach and therefore can receive treatment to make patients full quicker do alleviate the symptoms. Often either give patients a huge this will be: relief from other illnesses and • education so patients can conditions brought on by learn to live with an manage carrying excessive amounts their condition of weight and they can resolve • care from a multi disciplinary team them altogether.” • anti inflammatory drugs Both of the presentations were • injections into the joints very well received by members • steroids and they very much appreciated In extreme cases patients can the time both consultants gave, be given biological agents which both in their presentations suppress the immune system. and being prepared to answer The current journey for patients Vipul Vagadia at the member event questions in private afterwards. Six members of staff were nominated to join non executive director Steve Hall and commercial director Kevin Oxley at the Mayor of Hartlepool’s spring ball. They were Senior health trainer Denise Murphy who managed the elderly care day unit at the she deserves recognition, not only in her own has been with the health trainer service University Hospital of Hartlepool and the right, but also to represent all of the staff in from the beginning and has worked transition into the new accommodation. the minor injuries unit where levels of patient tirelessly to ensure it has succeeded. Clients She deserves special recognition for her satisfaction are high. think the world of her. leadership over many years, her consistently Catheter laboratory and cardiac investigations Paediatric community nurse Debbie positive approach to her work and her unit manager Louise Tindall who is leading Osborne has taken up the mantle of being dedication to patients cardiology diagnostic services alongside at the forefront of the community paediatric Emergency nurse practitioner Janice Phillips, the medical staff through a period of outreach team with gusto. She is motivated minor injuries unit. Janice was one of the improvement and change. She deserves and supportive to the team and loyal to the first nurse practitioners and is qualified in non special recognition for the significant amount directorate and the directorate’s vision. medical prescribing and clinical skills. She is of effort, dedication and determination she is Ward manager Jill Barrett who has successfully an excellent ambassador for the service and showing to progress this work.

38 Anthem | Summer 2012 North Tees and Hartlepool Membership reply form For office use only NHS Foundation Trust About you (please tick as appropriate) Male Female Public Patient/carer Join us! Date of birth *DD/MM/YYYY* Staff As a member of North Tees and Hartlepool •To become a member you need to be over 16 years NHS Foundation Trust you will join thousands of other like minded people who support our work. Title Mr Mrs Miss Ms Dr It’s free to join and you can be involved as little or as much as you like. Other You will have the opportunity to: • help improve your local services First name • receive your personal copy of Anthem magazine Surname • receive regular information about Address the trust • stand for election to become a governor • attend annual general meetings and Postcode member events • just offer your support to the trust and Telephone its services You will have instant access to NHS Discounts once you’re registered and the Mobile chance to be entered into a prize draw. If you ask for a membership card you can Email take advantage of reduced rates in any of our Wilbers coffee outlets. Our membership office is always I apply to be a member of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. I agree to be bound pleased to hear from people who may by the rules of such an organisation. I consent to the processing of my personal information for be interested in becoming a member of the purposes of my membership by North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. the trust. Anyone who is over the age of 16 and Signature lives in Stockton on Tees, Hartlepool, Sedgefield, Peterlee and Easington can become a member by: • contacting the membership office on 01642 383765 Today’s date (DD/MM/YYYY) • emailing [email protected] • completing the online application form Disability at www.nth.nhs.uk/joinustoday Do you consider yourself to have a disability Yes No If you have a QR app you can click here to apply Ethnic group (please tick as appropriate) White British Irish Other on line. Or alternatively  please fill in this Mixed White & Black Caribbean White & Black African membership White & Asian Other mixed application form and send it to the membership office. Asian/Asian British Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Other Asian

Black/British African Caribbean Other Black Six members of staff were nominated to join non executive director Steve Hall and commercial Other ethnic group Chinese Other ethnic group director Kevin Oxley at the Mayor of Hartlepool’s spring ball. They were Would you like us to keep in touch with you by email by post

Please return to: Membership Office, University Hospital of North Tees, Hardwick, Stockton on Tees TS19 8PE Email: [email protected] Call: 01642 383765 Online: www.nth.nhs.uk

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Anthem | Summer 2012 39 Members’ noticeboard

Council of Annual General Meeting This is a chance to have a say about the work of the trust. Members governors and the general public are welcome to attend the meeting, which will be held on Thursday 20 September, at 11am in the meeting Londonderry Room, Wynyard Rooms, Wynyard Business Park, Billingham TS22 5TB. Free parking is available and refreshments The governors are the voice of our will be provided from 10.30am. Please confirm your attendance members who help shape the with the membership office. future of the trust. Members and the general public are welcome to observe the meetings which are held four times a year. The next meeting is on 20 September, which is also the Member date of the annual general meeting. Please contact the membership office Moving events for more information. Members and anyone who is house? interested are invited to attend Let us have your new the next event on Saturday 8 Board of directors address. You can still be September at 9.30am, in the a member if you have teaching centre at the University moved out of the area Hospital of North Tees. The events meetings served by the trust. are free, but you need to book a place. For more details please The board of directors meet around six times a year. contact the membership office. Members of the public and staff are welcome to observe the meetings. This is your chance to see how the board operates and gain first hand knowledge on the trust’s latest developments. Spaces to attend the meetings are limited so please contact the membership office in advance to secure your place. The next board of directors meeting is Your trust on Thursday 25 October at the University Hospital of North Tees. needs you! Please help us to recruit new members. We want to increase our membership so that we are truly representative of the community we serve and that more people can become involved with their local hospital. Please encourage your family and friends to Membership cards join the trust as a member and sign them up using the attached form, but don’t forget to include your details! For We have launched a new membership card, which entitles every completed form we receive names will be placed members to staff rates at any of the Wilbers Coffee in a draw to win a £10 high street voucher. Please return Shop outlets at the University Hospital of North Tees or completed forms to The Membership Office, Fourth Floor Hartlepool, as well as access to NHS discounts. To obtain North Wing, North Tees & Hartlepool NHS Foundation your membership card, please contact the membership Trust, Hardwick Road, Stockton on Tees, TS19 8PE. office on 01642 383765 or [email protected]. We would especially like to hear from anyone aged 16-25 years old as we have a number of potential opportunities they could be involved with. You can join us by emailing Contacting your [email protected], calling 01642 383765, applying on line at www.nth.nhs.uk or filling in the membership office form on page 39 You can get in touch with your membership office at 01642 383765 Or why not use our new QR code or [email protected] to join on line? Please let us have your email address and mobile number so we can keep in touch with you about up and coming events.

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