Issue 21 December 10/January 11 North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

The magazine for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust

Tessa brings page 13 Christmas cheer Stop smoking service top of national league The Stockton and Hartlepool stop smoking service is celebrating it’s pole position as top of the Barbara is new national league table for quitters. Figures for 2009/10 show that give them the best possible chance for people who want to quit face in HR the Hartlepool team helped more of quitting, because everyone is cigarettes, including the provision Barbara Bright (pictured) is the people to quit for a four-week different. We’re certainly not there of prescriptions as appropriate. trust’s new deputy director of period (per 100,000 population) to preach! Sessions are held in many different human resources. than any other stop smoking “One of the main causes of people locations including community Following an early career in service. lapsing when they quit is not centres and village halls to improve the NHS, Barbara joined the Service manager Pat Marshall having the right support in the first access to the service and make it University of Teesside where said: “We’re delighted with the place. Their best possible chance easy to call in during a work break she held a number of roles results. Quitting smoking isn’t of success is through using a NHS or on the way home. moving into human resources always easy but it’s something stop smoking service.” in 1996. most smokers really want to do. Smokers who want to kick the People can find out more by In 2002 she joined Nine out of ten people who use habit can get support at more phoning the Stockton and the newly formed National NHS help to quit say they would than twenty stop smoking drop Hartlepool NHS stop smoking Care Standards Commission recommend it. in clinics run by North Tees and service on 01642 635650 or the as head of HR planning “We offer friendly and non- Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust NHS Helpline on 0800 169 0169 and recruitment. judgemental help to smokers and or at some 16 pharmacies. The or clicking on www.smokefree. In 2004, she joined Darlington tailor support to every person to service offers one-to-one advice nhs.uk/ primary care trust under the national Gateway to Leadership programme. She undertook a number of senior roles; the most recent being Raising the (S)BAR on associate director of human resources, organisational patient safety development and workforce. At the trust Barbara is November 15 to 19 was National In addition, director of nursing sections, to ensure that staff accountable for leading and Patient Safety Week and as usual and patient safety Sue Smith are sharing concise and focused managing human resources the trust was extremely active and assistant director of nursing, information and allows staff to operations, HR research and in promoting it. quality and patient experience communicate assertively and development, recruitment There were displays in the main Barbara Carr were out and about effectively, reducing the need and the nurseries. This will concourse at both the University on the wards raising the profile for repetition. involve developing, managing Hospital of North Tees and the of patient safety and promoting It also helps staff anticipate and implementing human University Hospital of Hartlepool the SBAR track and trigger tool the information needed by resources activities and new and videos on the various Life to clinical staff. colleagues and encourages initiatives across the trust, Channel TVs in public areas and SBAR stands for situation, assessment skills. Using SBAR which will impact on all staff, waiting rooms. background, assessment and prompts staff to formulate employment policies and recommendation and is an easy information with the right level of detail. procedures. She is the lead to remember communications manager for human resource SBAR can also be used tool, originally developed communication, ensuring effectively to enhance handovers for use by the US Navy, but all staff have been informed between shifts or between now being promoted by the and where appropriate, staff in the same or different NHS Institute for Innovation trained in new and developing clinical areas. and Improvement. activities associated with Sue Smith said: “Inadequate their employment. The tool can be used by clinical communication is recognised Barbara said “I am delighted staff when communicating as a being one of the most to have joined the trust. information about patients, common root causes of serious Working in the NHS over the especially in emergency clinical errors. last six years has been an situations. It enables staff “SBAR helps to overcome this exciting time for me, which to clarify what information as it gives clinical staff a clear has brought about many should be communicated guide as to what information challenges and opportunities. between members of the team needs to be communicated I am looking forward to to ensure speedy and and how. working with staff and appropriate treatment. “Communication is essential to developing the organisation Barbara Carr and Sue Smith in front SBAR consists of standardised good team work, and team work for the future.” of the display prompt questions in four is essential to patient safety.”

002|003 Ambulance patient handover goes electronic A new system being introduced service. It will also offer a number • give crews information about by the North East Ambulance of other benefits such as the what the best treatment for the Station manager Elliot Kennedy Service is helping to streamline ability to view heart traces. patient is likely to be so they the patient information collected Director of clinical care and patient can advise the hospital about by the ambulance crews and safety at North East Ambulance ongoing treatment as quickly Silver service handed over when the patient Service Ann Fox, explained: “This as possible, arrives at hospital. is an exciting development for the • allow the ambulance service to for Elliot Ambulance crews will simply ambulance service, hospitals and analyse information to help them Station manager Elliot enter the information onto patients. It will help us improve bring in further improvements to Kennedy has had his silver a toughbook- a sturdy lap top quality, safety and the care we patient care. anniversary as a volunteer computer - using a touch screen. give to patients by allowing crews Associate director for emergency marked with a special This information is then instantly to record information more easily care for North Tees and Hartlepool presentation. available for receiving hospitals to and efficiently.” NHS Foundation Trust, Gill Carton Radio North Tees committee view online. Hospitals are given said: “We’re excited about this What are the benefits? members gathered to thank the vital data they need before the new development. I’m sure Elliot for his contribution to ambulance even arrives, to help The new system will many people think filling in any • make it easier and more accurate the long term success of them prepare for the arrival of an kind of form, whether paper or the station which has been emergency patient and organise for ambulance crews to record electronic, is just bureaucracy important patient information, the training ground for ongoing healthcare. but actually it’s a vital part of many presenters as well as • allow ambulance crews to send The new system will make caring for the patient. providing valuable training for information such as heart traces it quicker and easier to record “We delighted to be working students and young people. to the hospital while they are on important healthcare information. with the North East Ambulance Elliot received a certificate the way there, For instance, some information Service and we’re sure it will from the trust and the hospital • allow the hospital to see the on patients will already be provide a much improved broadcasting organisation as recorded, including names and information about a patient handover system for patients well a special mike to adorn addresses by the ambulance before they arrive, arriving by ambulance.” his studio. In the new year Radio North Tees will become Radio Stitch, a hospital radio station for the University Hospital of Hartlepool and the University Hospital of North Tees.

Paramedic Dan Howarth shows sister Viv Priestley and staff nurse Sarah Wood accident and emergency at the University Hospital of North Tees how the new system works

December 10/January 11 Board puts its support behind organ donation campaign

Members of the North Tees and each year waiting for a Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust transplant as there are not board have signed up to the organ enough organs available. donation register and are now Specialist nurse for organ donation encouraging more staff to follow Clare Fletcher said: “Nearly their example. everyone would accept an Three people a day - will die organ if they needed one but only

Generous staff donate gifts to underprivileged children Kind hearted staff at North sorts of treats including toys, Tees and Hartlepool NHS sweets, toiletries and arts and Foundation Trust have once crafts equipment. again generously donated Donna Goldsmith, pictured right stacks of gift-filled boxes to who organises the collection underprivileged children. across the trust said: “We’re A total of 89 shoeboxes have delighted to have been able been donated to Samaritan’s to send so many boxes to the Purse Operation Christmas children this year. Child which will be given out to “I would like to say thank you children in need across Africa, to all the staff in the trust and Eastern Europe and Central their families who have taken Asia just in time for Christmas. part – I know it will make a real The boxes were packed with all difference to these children.”

Bernie proves it’s never too late to learn

Occupational therapist Bernie Hays is proving that it’s never too late to learn, or even have a Mortuary manager Michelle Lancaster, bereavement support officer Sue change of career. Turner, bereavement support officer Janet Tiplady and head of histology and Bernie is even a fairly late arrival mortuary services Sharron Williams join Edna Anderson of the League of in the NHS, joining in 2003 after Friends to say thank you. a 26 year career with a local bus company. It was in this job that New bereavement room opens he became interested in disability when he was sent on a course A new bereavement room Janet Tiplady “We are delighted on disability awareness and at the University Hospital of that the hospital can now wheelchair instruction. North Tees is providing a much offer a dignified and peaceful Bernie said: “I joined the needed space for relatives and environment for the bereaved. loved ones of patients who “The room is quiet, light and wheelchair service and worked have passed away. has a peaceful feel to it. at Caroline Street in Hartlepool The dedicated room has “We would like to say a special then across at the University been funded thanks to the thank you to the League of Hospital of North Tees liaising generosity of the League Friends for their kindness and with occupational therapists of Friends. everyone involved in making and physiotherapists. Bereavement support officer this facility a success.” “I was well supported by my Occupational therapist Bernie Hays manager and gained an NVQ 004|005 Board puts its support behind organ donation campaign

28% of us have joined the organ if they are unaware of the donor register. person’s wishes.” “It is also very important that You can find out more information people make their wishes about organ donation at http:// known to their families if they www.organdonation.nhs.uk or are signing up on the register join the register by telephoning as families can refuse consent 0300 123 23 23.

Infection prevention control specialist nurse Kevin Lawler, infection prevention control nurse Elizabeth Dobson-Bell, infection prevention control nurse Margaret Randall and clerical officer Joanna Robinson. Infection control is everyone’s business Bernie proves it’s never too late to learn A dedicated team is leading “Cleanliness plays a part in the way to tackle the spread of tackling infection. It is simple infections in the community. and basic personal hygiene level 2 in medical terminology occupational therapist in medical Infection prevention and control that really makes all and patient care, then level 3 in rehabilitation at the University specialist nurse Kevin Lawler the difference. Health, social and therapeutic care Hospital of North Tees and in said: “People tend to associate “It doesn’t matter whether as well as a university certificate in October I started on a rotational all infections with hospitals, but you are a member of staff, professional development.” post in medicine at the University they can be picked up out in a patient or a visitor; hand It was Bernie’s contact with Hospital of Hartlepool.” the community. washing is the simplest but “It’s all about working occupational therapists which Asked what he thinks about most effective way to reduce together to stop any avoidable took him to his next change. He his career move Bernie said: the risk of infection. infections in any area of health said: “I found their job interesting “I am really enjoying it. I’ve “We can only achieve this if or social care. and wanted to know more been lucky enough to have every staff member, patient about what their role entailed. I very supportive managers and “We are working in GP surgeries, care homes and and visitor does their bit to went to an open day at York St colleagues and I would really like help. The message is clear; John and thought ‘this is for me’, to thank them for their support dental practices to raise awareness and promote infection prevention and so I spoke to my manager who and encouragement. ways to prevent the spread of control is everyone’s business. agreed I could apply to go on “I’ve had so many opportunities healthcare associated infection. “Everyone needs to make the in-service programme. I was in the NHS and I’m pleased and “Infection prevention and sure they take responsibility for delighted to be accepted onto the proud to have qualified as an control is a top priority their own hygiene to help us BHSc (hons) part time four year occupational therapist at 54. It for the trust and it’s taken ensure patients are not put at in-service programme. just goes to show that it’s never very seriously. any unnecessary risk.” “I took a secondment as an too late to learn.”

December 10/January 11 Gloria says goodbye after 40 years A well known face at the director of operations at the time University Hospital of North Tees presented her with a bouquet has said goodbye after 40 years of flowers. at the Trust. During her career Gloria managed Gloria Leng joined the trust in to raise two boys and now has 1969 and has been a friendly three lovely grandchildren who face and voice to thousands of she is very proud of. patients, visitors and staff. Speaking at her retirement She has spent eight years on the presentation Jan, Diane and switchboard and a whopping 32 Lorraine thanked Gloria for her years on main reception. commitment, loyalty and sense Gloria remembers many strange of humour. and wonderful situations she’s Chief executive officer Sarah Bone, specialist registrar Sudeep Manohar, specialist been faced with over the years, Director of nursing and patient diabetes nurse Pam Stephens, consultant diabetologist Sue Jones, specialist she said: “I even received a safety Sue Smith said: “It diabetes nurse Lisa Doughty and events co-ordinator Lee Calladine. telephone call one day from a lady is a pleasure to be given the to ask how long she should leave opportunity to say thank you for her Christmas cake in the oven!” your dedication and hard work on She’ll take a lifetime of memories behalf of the board.” Awareness day provides with her too. She even opened Gloria added: “I would like to the new revolving doors at the thank everyone for their advice on diabetes main entrance and the assistant generosity and kind words.” The diabetes team at North Tees the information they need to look and Hartlepool NHS Foundation after themselves and manage Trust teamed up with national their diabetes. charity, Diabetes Research and ”Hartlepool has the highest Wellness Foundation to host number of undiagnosed diabetes an awareness event for people sufferers in the area at 1,900 with diabetes. people, so events like these are Around 50 people came along to very important.“ find out about the latest advice Events co-ordinator Lee Calladine at the event which took place on added: “The event was a the eve of World Diabetes Day, at huge success. Working with Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience. professionals like Sue and her The day was packed with a series team is vital in helping us to of presentations and workshops support and educate people on to give people with diabetes the how to manage their diabetes Healthcare staff put the kettle on for information they need to help and to generally live a healthier them manage the condition. Even lifestyle while delaying the long the world’s biggest coffee morning a gentle pilates exercise class was term effects of the condition.” on offer too. Diabetes is a condition where the Staff in the Macmillan team Macmillan physiotherapist Members of the public had the amount of glucose in the blood at North Tees and Hartlepool Debra Alton said: “The coffee opportunity to talk to health is too high because the body NHS Foundation Trust put the morning went really well. professionals and companies cannot use it properly and when kettle on and joined the world’s Tesco kindly provided a £20 gift about the latest blood-glucose the pancreas does not produce biggest coffee morning. voucher to buy tea and coffee. meters and other diabetes any insulin, or not enough, to help The event held at Lawson “Staff baked loads of delicious related products. glucose enter the body’s cells. Street Health Centre in cakes and scones. We’d like Consultant diabetologist Sue To find out more about the Stockton raised a fantastic to say a massive thank you Jones said: “It was a great Diabetes Research and £205 thanks to generous to everyone who made the opportunity to raise awareness Wellness Foundation go to donations from staff and event a success. We’re looking of diabetes and to give people http://www.drwf.org.uk/ members of the public. forward to the next one!”

Macmillan therapy technician Jean Abbey, Macmillan nurse Mags Bould, Macmillan physiotherapist Debra Alton.

006|007 Putting on a show

Porter Johnny Doyle has been It’s thanks to everyone from putting his musical talents to the dance school and Nicky and good use to help raise cash for a Geoff O’Brien from the North local dance school. Tees Hospital Club that it was The fundraising event held at such a success.” the North Tees Hospital Club Emma added: “I’m really grateful raised more than £200 for the to everyone who helped to Emma Risbrough Dance School raise the money. The children after talented youngsters put love to dance and sing – on a show for local residents. they are all so talented. The Johnny said: “The event was money will help to pay for fantastic. We played music costumes and give them what and the kids put on a show. they deserve.” Porter Johnny Doyle and Emma Risbrough with members of the dance school. Retirement village residents get active on National Older Person’s day

Residents at Hartfields Retirement they struggle with balance; we Village joined in the fun and games have all sorts of different games at a special event on National and activities what people can Older Person’s Day. take part in.” The event, promoted the Senior health trainer Denise importance of staying active Murphy said: “The event was regardless of age with activities really successful. It’s important to including gardening and games on try to keep active in some way no the Nintendo Wii. matter what age you are. Emma Wheetman, community She also added “Keeping active activities officer at Hartfields can make a big difference to your Retirement Village, said: “The health, it can help to minimise the theme for this year’s event was all risk of trips and falls, help someone about getting and staying active. regain their independence, get out “It doesn’t matter whether people into the community, learn a new are in a wheelchair or whether skill or boost their energy levels.”

Senior health trainer Denise Murphy joins in the fun on the Wii Fit with community Senior health trainer Roz Palmer has a game with residents Audrey McClelland and activities officer Emma Wheetman, resident Bob Strong and Jean Briggs Marilyn Caygill

December 10/January 11 Bowel disease charity congawongas to raise awareness A charity, set up to raise awareness of bowel related disease and to help the trust fund local projects, has Trainee respiratory physiologists Claire Bullock and Harriet literally had people dancing in the streets. Lees check the results on the spirometry test. The charity, SupportYourBowel , Consultant surgeon, Anil Agarwal, invited people to dress up and who founded the charity, said: dance a sponsored conga from “SupportYourBowel is playing Seaton to Hartlepool Marina. It a very important role in making Free lung was so successful that the charity people aware of bowel related has already booked a date for disease. Sadly we still see people the SupportYourBowelConga4 ignoring the early signs of bowel capacity Wonga 2011. cancer. Anything we can do to SupportYourBowel‘s fundraising raise awareness of this common, testing to efforts have been boosted sometimes fatal but in many by patient Tony Larkin who cases preventable disease is made a commitment to help welcome. The great thing about mark World while recovering in hospital SupportYourBowel is that people following a major operation to are having a lot of fun while they’re Spirometry remove a cancer tumour from his raising much needed funds for lower bowel. this very important work. Tony Larkin The charity has organised a Some six months later and things Day number of other events from are looking very rosy for the “It’s the first of many scans to acoustic music nights and selling charity. They are for Tony too; he come but it’s a great start. It just The respiratory team at North signed CDs and guitars from a has had his first CT scan since the goes to show that if you catch Tees and Hartlepool NHS number of celebrities. surgery and it’s clear. Tony said: Foundation Trust ran a lung things early enough things can function testing event to be done”. mark the first ever World These are the vital symptoms to Spirometry Day. look out for: Members of the public were • Blood in your stools invited to come along to take • Persistent change in your a lung test or simply find out bowel movements more information about lung • Abdominal pain or discomfort health at the event aimed • Losing weight and/or at raising awareness of lung extreme tiredness health across the world. • Bowel blockage COPD nurse co-ordinator You can find out more about Sandra Stych said: “We bowel awareness and fundraising offered members of the public events at www.supportyour and staff a simple test that bowel.com and follow the charity takes about five minutes to on Facebook. complete. They were asked to breathe into a machine called a spirometer, which measures the amount and speed of the air that you can get in and out of your lungs. “This was an excellent opportunity to encourage anyone who is concerned about their lung health to get their lungs tested for an early indication of diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – a term for chronic bronchitis and emphysema, where the airways to the lungs become narrowed.” Congawonga in style

008|009 Shape up challenge becomes a way of life

Health trainers at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust put a call out to members of the public to volunteer to take the shape up challenge. Twelve weeks later it’s all over and the group can celebrate. They’re 53lbs (nearly four stone) lighter and they’ve lost a total of 126 inches between them. It looks like a shopping trip could be in order to replace the clothes which no longer fit too! It will be an experience that won’t be forgotten for Debbie Hanley, 43 from Seaton Carew, Liz Wilcox, 47 from Rift House, Lorraine Lowery, 53 from Seaton Carew, Senga Standing, 53, from the Fens, Bev Bell, 61 from Greatham and joining them, senior health trainer Pam Cairns, 45 from Rossmere in Hartlepool and health trainer manager Sharon Bartram, 41 from Billingham.

“This has changed my life for the better.” 12 weeks later …..

But they’re not stopping there. Health trainers teamed up with “The social support people need some imaginative The new group of friends have personal trainers at Brierton ideas on physical activity, or just vowed to carry on with their Community Sports Centre in kept me motivated. want to be a little bit healthier.” healthier lifestyle. Hartlepool and the lucky winners It’s been a great Reflecting on the past twelve Health trainer manager Sharon joined the challenge with the opportunity to meet weeks Sharon continued: “It has Bartram said: “The group free support of a health trainer gone brilliantly well. have bonded and are going to and a personal trainer. like-minded people, “We set achievable goals. It’s not keep meeting up and going to Twice a week for twelve have fun and make about going on a diet – just making the gym together. weeks the group got together good friends.” simple changes such as eating “It has joined a group of people for free personal training healthier, drinking more water and up, who 12 weeks ago didn’t session and plenty of tips on Senga said: “This has changed doing some exercise. know each other and now they’ve healthy eating, nutrition and my life for the better.” “Everyone really enjoys going to become friends.” weight management. Liz added: “The social support the gym – so much that the group kept me motivated. It’s been a were putting in extra sessions great opportunity to meet like- during the week! minded people, have fun and “We’ve got the personal trainers make good friends.” at Brierton Sports Centre to thank Health trainer manager Sharon for that! Bartram said: “The initial response “The ladies have done from the public to sign up to the absolutely fantastic – I’m so proud challenge was excellent. of them all.” “The group has gone through The health trainers are here to an intensive programme with provide support to local people to personal training sessions. improve their health. They look at “We were on hand to give the the things that might be stopping group plenty of tips on healthy someone from making a change, eating, nutrition and how to and then help them on the road to maintain a healthy lifestyle. making their goals a reality. ”Changing to a healthier lifestyle For more information about isn’t always easy, but it soon the health trainer service in becomes a way of life once you’ve Hartlepool and Stockton please The shape up challenge begins and they hit the gym taken that first step. Sometimes phone 01642 853998. December 10/January 11 Ambulatory care provides quicker way of seeing patients in need of medical attention

Patients whose GPs feel they University Hospital of North need immediate medical attention Tees and University Hospital of are now benefiting from a new Hartlepool respectively. service at the trust’s two Gail said: “The service is similar hospitals. The way patients to having a minor injuries area needing emergency is organised in accident and emergency for has been streamlined with sicker patients who need to be seen patients being taken straight quickly but whose injuries aren’t to the emergency assessment a serious as those who come into unit and people whose needs the major injuries area. are immediate but not as serious “What was happening was that being taken straight to the patients were all being brought ambulatory care centre. into the emergency assessment Matrons Gail Fincken and unit and, of course, the most Fiona McEvoy are responsible seriously ill were being seen for the services at the first. This meant long waits for

Community nutritionist Fiona Cutting with Kathleen and Gordon showing what 5lbs of fat looks like Good advice helps couple kick start a healthier lifestyle Its good advice and support that and smaller portions. has been the key to success for “We don’t do any strenuous a couple who’ve lost more than exercise, but simple things like two stone. going for a walk or even doing Earlier this year the department the house work combined with of nutrition and dietetics at a healthy balanced diet seems North Tees and Hartlepool to have done the trick!” NHS Foundation Trust Husband Gordon, 77 added: encouraged members of the “We both feel so much better.” public who wanted to lose Community nutritionist Fiona weight to sign up their free Cutting, who runs the groups, weight management classes. added: “The exciting 10 week Trainee nurse practitioner Julie Roberts and nurse practitioner Pam Abbey Kathleen and Gordon Richardson programme featured a different from Blackhall thought it was topic every week. just what they needed to help “We looked at portion sizes, them kick start a healthier food labels, how to cook on lifestyle and so they signed up a budget and created healthy National role for Janine to join the class. eating plans. Coronary heart disease specialist nurse The ten week course, held at “It’s not about going on a lead Janine O’Rourke will spend six Blackhall Community Health diet. Anyone who is on a diet to 10 days between now and March Centre has proved to be a great will eventually need to come 2011 advising the heart improvement success too. off it and the weight will creep team within NHS Improvement at the Kathleen, 65 said: “We both back on. Department of Health about heart failure. wanted some good advice on “My advice is to eat a healthy Janine saw an advert in a national how lead a healthier lifestyle, balanced diet – little and often. newsletter and thought she would be mainly for health reasons. We’ve “I’ll be starting some more able to give national advice from ground encouraged and supported groups in January. To find out level on how to improve services for each other. more you can give me a call on Janine O’Rourke people living with heart failure. “It’s all just about healthy eating 01429 522529.” She said: “I am passionate about

010|011 Ambulatory care provides Join the NHS Organ Donor quicker way of seeing patients Register in need of medical attention 0300 123 23 23

Nurse practitioner Debra Jemison and team leader Angela McCormick In the pink – the healthcare records team pose for a photo

patients. This wasn’t good for straightaway. Often they can be patients and we weren’t happy assessed and observed, then go Health records turn pink and with this arrangement. home again shortly afterwards. “We now have ambulatory “Patients and staff prefer the care units which are part of the new arrangement and the raise funds for breast unit assessment unit but it means that comments we’ve had so far have patients whose illnesses need been very positive. The normal sea of blue blouses involvement and information attention but they’re not serious “It’s all about getting the right took on a pink hue when health governance Jan Atkinson or life threatening can be seen patient to the right place first records staff celebrated Pink said: “The team is fantastic quickly by our specialist nurses.” time. I’d like to thank all the Day. As well as the change and always raising money for Fiona added: “This is a much staff in medicine who have of colour scheme in the good causes.” better way of looking after patients worked hard to set up the new department colleagues pushed with medical problems. Our arrangement and are making it the boat out with a selection of specialist nurses can see them such a success.” tasty pink goodies for sale and put on a pink themed tombola to boost funds. Personal assistant Marion Atkinson said: “We enjoy doing National role for Janine our bit with fundraising and it’s heart failure and feel, with my will be well represented in helping to always good because the team experience with the trust, I could develop heart services.” really make an effort and bring give a voice for patients and for staff Specialist services manager long in lots of home made cakes working in the community, so I sent term conditions Val Hall said: “I’m to sell. in my CV and a few words about really delighted for Janine. I know “We had another fantastic Pink why I would be ideal to carry out she will be an asset to this very Day and raised £420 for the this advisory role. important national work. So many University Hospital of North Tees “I was really pleased to be chosen of our residents are living with heart breast unit. A very big thank you and it was also great to hear that disease or heart failure. It’s brilliant to all who participated. We’re the GP advisory role has been to think that Hartlepool people are already thinking about what we filled by Middlesbrough GP Nigel influencing national policy in the can do for Christmas!” Clerical officer Clair Hughes with her Rowell. This means the North East interests of patients.” Assistant director of public home-made pink cakes

December 10/January 11 Catch a falling star An innovative way of potentially reducing falls in hospital is being piloted at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. Falling star symbols are being placed outside of the ward to alert staff to monitor particular Colleagues gather at Ian’s retirement patients more closely if they are at risk of falls. The idea has been adapted by the trust’s nurses from Consultant retires an American system at the Virginia Mason Medical Centre in Seattle and produced by the trust’s estates department. after 18 years Director of nursing and patient safety Sue Smith said: Colleagues gathered to wish him all the best for a long and “I can even say you get fantastic “Patients quite often don’t consultant paediatrician Ian healthy retirement.” treatment here, after I broke my realise their risk of falling. Verber a happy retirement after Ian continued: “I’ve really neck of femur, I was fantastically They often try to get out of spending 18 years at North enjoyed my time here. I feel looked after! bed and put themselves at Tees and Hartlepool NHS lucky to have started work with “I know I’m leaving the neonatal risk of falling so we need to Foundation Trust. really supportive colleagues and unit in good hands after an be extra vigilant. Ian joined the trust in 1992 and excellent obstetricians. excellent 18 years. “These visual signs mean got the unit well equipped with “I had a great five years working “I’m looking forward to my that staff can look down the the state of the art technology. as a postgraduate clinical tutor. retirement, spending more time in corridor and immediately see Speaking at his retirement clinical ”This is, quite honestly a great the Lakes – sailing and walking.” which patients have been director for paediatrics Jagat Jani place to work. I’m very lucky to Medial director David Emerton identified having a greater said: “All colleagues will agree only have had two secretaries, added: “I would like to add risk of falling. that Ian will be missed. Ian is very who have both been fantastic. my thanks to Ian on behalf of “We’ve seen a gradual well respected in the trust and in “I’d like to pay a huge tribute the board. reduction in the number of the region. to the neonatal nurses – the “The neonatal unit has an excellent patients in hospital falling but “He was someone you could unit wouldn’t be what it is today reputation and your hard work is it is an area we can’t afford always look to for advice. I wish without them. greatly appreciated by everyone.” to be complacent in because a fall can have very serious implications, especially for the very vulnerable. “This system is a way of Oh yes they did..! making sure that we are always aware of patients Children in hospital at risk of falling and we’re were treated to the sure this will contribute to story of Sleeping further improvements.” Beauty and came face to face with a cast of colourful characters; Prince Hero, Princess Aurora and Fairy Nuff. Instead of taking children to the panto Starlight Children’s Foundation brings the panto to children in hospital. The small cast take on multiple roles and have the children, not to mention the staff, singing, shouting and The cast, staff, patients and families pose for a photo cheering in all the right places. always pleased to see the Starlight panto mood.” Building officer Alan Blogg fixes Play specialist Sandra Children’s Foundation. It makes the You can find out more about the up the first falling star Jackson said: “We’re children’s day and we all get in the foundation at www.starlight.org.uk

012|013 A very welcome visitor Patients at the rehabilitation day may be missing their own pets from the services provided by Pets for new volunteers with friendly, unit at the University Hospital of while they’re in hospital.” As Therapy. They visit hospitals, well behaved dogs or cats to visit Hartlepool had a surprise from a “We’re very much looking forward hospices, residential homes, day patients in residential homes, very special visitor. to being regular visitors. “ care centres, special needs schools hospitals etc. Tessa, a four year old Whippet Approximately 4,500 P.A.T. dogs and many other establishments Please note the animals will have to and owner Beryl Nunn are and 108 cats provide comfort, often working with phobic children, be temperament assessed by Pets dedicated members of the national companionship and therapy people suffering from clinical As Therapy. charity, Pets As Therapy and throughout the U.K. Over 130,000 depression or on stroke units. Further details: www.petsastherapy. together they provide comfort and people benefit every single week Pets As Therapy are always looking org or telephone 01844 345445. friendship to patients. Sister Jill Barrett said: “The patients’ faces lit up when they saw her. I’m delighted to welcome Beryl and Tessa into our team. “Everyone enjoyed meeting and spending time with Tessa. You can immediately see the benefit of it. “Many of our patients here tell us they would love a dog, but they can no longer have one because they have mobility problems so seeing and talking to the dog can make a real difference to them.” Owner Beryl added: “This is the first time I’ve visited the hospital with Tessa and it has been fantastic. Everyone wanted to stop and say hello. “People love to stroke Tessa. It’s comforting for the patients and she’s happy to enjoy the fuss and attention too. “The best thing about this is seeing the pleasure it brings to people. A visit from Tessa always seems to cheer people up. “She helps people to relax when they stroke her. She loves to see the patients and help with their rehabilitation. “It can be great company for anyone staying in hospital too, who Sister Jill Barrett welcomes P.A.T. dog Tessa and Beryl Awards night success celebrates diversity Senior health trainer Zumrat about giving advice on changing Khan has been recognised for your diet or doing more exercise. her valuable work and dedicated “Sometimes people need support to the community at a support, maybe to build their recent awards ceremony. confidence too. I’m also here to Zumrat was named women signpost people to other services networker of the year at the in the community that can help Celebrating Diversity Awards, them. I give them the guidance which recognises individuals, they need. businesses and organisations that “I’m grateful to have been contribute to cultural diversity. nominated and to have won an She said: “Members of the public award, but I just see this as my had nominated me for the award. job and it’s what I enjoy doing. I was surprised when I found out When I see that I have helped and I was invited to an awards someone, that’s a good enough ceremony at Middlesbrough reward for me.” Town Hall. Health trainer manager Sharon “I work with BME ladies in the Bartram added: “Zumrat has local community to provide advice worked tirelessly for the Islamic Health improvement staff receive their awards - Ingrid Ablett-Spence, head and support on how they can community of Stockton and I of health improvement, Ruby Poppleton, health improvement specialist for make those changes to a healthier would like to congratulate her on vulnerable groups, Janet Stainsby, public health practitioner for NHS Stockton lifestyle. But my role isn’t just her achievement.” on Tees and senior health trainer Zumrat Khan.

December 10/January 11 Royal opening for university’s latest showpiece Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal opened Teesside University’s new £17m campus showpiece in her capacity as patron of the College of Occupational Therapists. Nursery assistant Sarah Owens and Francesca Dwarakanath The new Centuria South Building on Victoria Road, Middlesbrough, has plenty to impress with a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy pool Cooking for use by sport therapy students and a magnificent dental suite equipped with 18 dentists’ chairs up a treat and practice ‘phantom heads’ for the first cohort of dental nursing Staff and children at North and dental hygiene and therapy Tees and Hartlepool NHS students – a new area of work for Foundation Trust’s day nursery Teesside University. have been cooking up a treat for Halloween. Tasty fairy cakes were turned “It was a real into scary spiders with sticky icing, candy coated faces and privilege to see liquorice legs. the Princess Nursery assistant Sarah Carole Langrick (second from left) shakes hands with the Princess Royal Owens said: “The children Royal open these really got into the spirit of social care has grown from 3,000 more about their occupational things. We’ve decorated the fantastic new to nearly 12,000 students and therapy programmes and the new nursery with pumpkins and facilities which the new building, which will be developments they are involved spiders’ webs too. shared with the school of social with in the wider university. ”Everyone really enjoyed are undoubtedly sciences and law, is seen as vital Professor Graham Henderson, making the cakes. Children putting Teesside on for the university’s continuing Vice-Chancellor of Teesside love making things. We growth in both in health care and University, said: “I was absolutely often do cooking activities. the map.” sport science. delighted to welcome Her Royal It’s a great way to get the The Princess Royal is patron Highness The Princess Royal to children to have fun and learn The well-equipped modern of the College of Occupational the university. It was good to about measuring, time and and airy new labs and teaching Therapists, a role she has had have an opportunity to share with being creative.” areas will enhance the adjoining since 1986. During the official The Princess Royal some of the Centuria Building, which opened opening, she saw the university’s most recent developments here 10 years ago. Since then Teesside’s occupational therapy facilities and at Teesside and I appreciate the University’s school of health and talked to staff and students to learn interest that she is taking in the work of our university.” Dean of the university’s school of health and social care Professor Paul Keane said: “The realisation of this building stands as a good example of the excellent partnership between the NHS and Teesside University.” Deputy chief executive Carole Langrick was invited to the event to represent the trust. She said: “It was a real privilege to see the Princess Royal open these fantastic new facilities which are undoubtedly putting Teesside on the map. As a trust we work closely with the university and we look forward to further strengthening this relationship in The Princess Royal watches a demonstration in the therapy area. the years to come.” 014|015 Trust praised for excellent student placements

Student nurses from the University of Teesside have praised the staff on ward 27 at the University Hospital of North Tees in recognition of the excellent practice experience they received during their placements. Matron Gail Fincken said: “I would like to congratulate the nursing staff on the excellent work they are Chemotherapy nurse specialists Tracy Nugent, Beth Gibson, ward matron Val Storey, former patient Gillian Ridden and sales doing in caring for patients and training executive Claire Paxman and supporting student nurses. This is reflected by students’ comments and shows the support from the trust and our nursing staff. Hair-loss machines “All of the staff help to make the student nurses role a wonderful experience. The feedback is testimony to set to benefit our staff’s commitment to working together as a team.” Senior nurse practice placement Jean Angus cancer patients added: “The feedback received, demonstrates the high quality learning One of the most distressing Temperature sensors make sure will make a real difference to environment provided by side effects of chemotherapy the cap keeps the scalp at a our patients. our teams in the hospitals treatment and the most visible constant temperature. “For cancer patients, being able to and in the community, sign of cancer is hair loss. Former patient Gillian Ridden, keep their hair can be a real boost. which facilitates the pre- Scalp-cooling machines which 47 from Billingham, pictured, Hair loss is a constant reminder of registration nursing students are used to help reduce or prevent received chemotherapy treatment the illness. through their nursing hair loss for people receiving at the University Hospital of “This brand new hair loss education programme.” chemotherapy are set to make North Tees. prevention system is the latest a difference to patients at North Gillian got the chance to test out model. They are special light Tees and Hartlepool NHS a similar scalp cooling machine weight cooling caps – they Foundation Trust. which was being trialled by the mould comfortably around the Funds worth about £40,000 unit. It meant she lost only a patient’s head. from breast cancer charity Walk very little amount of her hair during “We were previously using the Walk, has provided three her treatment. the frozen gel caps. They are coolers for the trust, which are She said: “I was absolutely uncomfortable and had to be put designed and manufactured by blown away with the results. onto the patient’s scalp at -25c. Paxman Coolers. Being able to keep my hair “They would heat up quickly once Walk the Walk is a grant-making meant I could move on quicker they became in contact with the charity, which means that from the illness. scalp and have to be constantly be everybody taking part in their “It’s such a visible sign of having monitored by the nursing staff. challenges is raising money for cancer. I didn’t want sympathy. “There is a very good chance Walk the Walk. I’ve been able to move on with patients will be able to keep their The machines work by lowering my life. hair with these machines, so they the temperature of the head and “I’m so grateful. I’d recommend will make a huge difference. scalp, minimising the damage anyone who needs to, to give this Ward matron Val Storey added: caused to hair follicles from the a go. “ “This is state-of-the-art equipment. effects of chemotherapy drugs. Chemotherapy specialist nurse We are absolutely delighted with A liquid coolant passes through Rosie Livingston said: “It’s this extremely generous donation the cap and extracts heat fantastic that we can now provide and we know the patients will from the patient’s scalp. this scalp cooling treatment. It truly appreciate it.” December 10/January 11 Trust commended in national report The National Council for Palliative of the way our chaplaincy team of helping them Care has highlighted the is involved in end of life care. resolve conflicts involvement of the chaplaincy They become involved as soon as or coming to team in end of life care. we know someone is dying and terms with what The report called the missing they are there to provide spiritual is happening piece: meeting people’s spiritual support to the patient and their to them. needs in end of life care talks about family and to support staff. When “We’re delighted the need to take people’s spiritual we talk about spiritual care we to be mentioned as well as physical and emotional mean spiritual care in its widest in such an impor- needs into consideration when sense; it’s about supporting tant national they are dying. people whatever their beliefs. This publication about the quality Consultant in palliative care includes people with or without of care and support we offer for medicine Edwin Pugh said: “We a specific faith. For some people people who are dying and those Chaplain Paul Salter with a patient are unique in the NHS because this support will take the form who are around them.” New technology helps to cut down on paperwork A hand held computer that Director of community services allows community healthcare Linda Watson said: “We workers to access patient notes are delighted to be the only while they’re out on their visits trust in the region using this is being used at North Tees technology. and Hartlepool NHS Foundation “This technology means health Trust. care staff can update a patient’s The Panasonic Toughbook records when they are with – a rugged wireless laptop is the patient, discuss their care being tested out by community and update notes online as nurses and matrons, speech part of their visits. Having this and language therapists and the facility improves the quality community stroke team. of the information available at Staff can use the computers the patient consultation and to check and update patient reduces staff trips back to the records wherever they go – office.’’ Demonstration – Principal embryologist Dave Gibbon pictured with Simon reducing paperwork and trips Community staff nurse Helen Lumsdon of Vitrolife and senior embryologist Lene Tetlow back to the office. Butler said: “It’s working really The Toughbooks operate with well. Using the Toughbook high-speed mobile broadband means that we cut down the New technology on show at and a built in NHS smart card amount of travel we do, as we reader, so there is no sensitive don’t need to return to base to the assisted reproduction unit personal information on the pick up notes. Toughbooks themselves . “Being able to update records New technology used for University Hospital of Hartlepool They use a standard system there and then means that the vitrifying embryos was on show for one year now. We’re keen to with the clinical records program information is fresh in your mind in the assisted reproduction develop the service we provide SystmOne, using a secure too. We’ve certainly welcomed unit at the University Hospital here and welcome advances in private network connection to the opportunity to test out this of Hartlepool. technology like this. protect patient confidentiality. new technology” A hands-on workshop gave “It is a highly technical process staff the chance to learn about and requires the state of the the Vitrolife Rapid-i – a new art equipment that is here in closed system for vitrifying Hartlepool. There are only a very embryos which will improve small number of units in the safety for the embryo. country doing vitrification. The new system was “We are proud to be at launched earlier this year at the the forefront of science and European Society of Human to be able to offer this to Reproduction and Embryology people in Hartlepool and the (ESHRE) in Rome. surrounding area.” Vitrification is a new procedure The assisted reproduction of freezing embryos that unit at the University Hospital improves the survival rate of Hartlepool has helped of eggs, embryos and dozens of people to become blastocysts (the balls of cells parents since it opened in that embryos develop into) up December 2008. to 90%, resulting in greater The unit uses the latest fertility pregnancy rates. techniques to help couples Principle embryologist Dave become parents and boasts Gibbon said: “We have been state of the art facilities to rival Community staff nurse Helen Butler vitrifying embryos at the any London clinic.

016|017 Learning the ropes

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS a hands-on role caring for patients. “The good thing about the at the end of it makes my job Foundation Trust are helping The apprenticeship training has apprenticeship scheme is that really rewarding too. people kick start their career with helped boost my confidence and you are assessed in the “Having to juggle work and an apprenticeship scheme. made me realise my goals. workplace. You have to put education commitments is not Since the trust began running the “I feel lucky that my placement is together a portfolio of evidence an easy task. But I think everyone to prove you have reached the scheme in 2001, it has gone from on the ward where I was working agrees it’s worth it in the end. strength to strength with almost previously. I am part of a fantastic national standards. “Jacqui is an example of what you 50 people successfully completing supportive team.” “Places are not only offered to the can achieve with the scheme. This the programme so far. “On a typical day my duties traditional school leavers; in fact, The apprentices are employed include, taking the patient’s anyone over the age of 16 and is just the start of a new career in the trust for two years. During blood pressure, helping them existing NHS staff can apply. for Jacqui and we hope to see her this time they work towards a get washed and helping to “We always make sure that continue to succeed within the technical certificate at level 3 feed them. staff are well supported. Seeing organisation and become a role- and a level 3 NVQ (national “I’d recommend an people achieve their qualifications model to other apprentices.” vocational qualification). apprenticeship not just because The apprenticeship scheme you learn on the job but because offers an alternative path, by of the different experiences I have giving students practical, hands- managed to observe. on experience in their choice “It is the start of a new career for of either healthcare or me and I’m really looking forward business administration. to the challenge of the next couple Jacqui Hatherall, 45, originally of years and giving patients the from the Fens in Hartlepool best care I can.” applied for the apprenticeship Sister Kimberly O’Brien added: scheme to change career. “Apprentices bring with them Mum of three and grandmother, energy and enthusiasm. Jacqui Jacqui joined the trust in 2007 as is very keen to learn. It’s brilliant a ward clerk on the surgery and to have the added support from urology ward. But realising her the apprentices.” dream of nursing patients she Vocational training manager was successfully granted a place Angela McNeill said: “We’re on the scheme and is now on delighted with the success of our the way to completing a two-year apprenticeship scheme and see advanced apprenticeship. it as being equally beneficial for She said: “Although I enjoyed the organisation and people in the Starting out - Healthcare apprentice Jacqui Hatherall watched by healthcare working as a ward clerk I wanted local area. assistant Helen Laycock

Once again the trust is stressing the committed to working with staff importance of protecting yourself and unions to put appropriate Don’t get flu, against flu. Director of clinical measures in place to make sure services and compliance Julie Gillon, that happens. who is the trust’s lead director for • We all have a duty to protect resilience, said: “Last year we had patients from flu and we can play get vaccinated the highest percentage of staff in our part in this by ensuring that we NHS North East vaccinated against are immunised. swine flu and the second highest • All of us have a responsibility for seasonal flu and we’re aiming to to ensure patient care is safely build on that position this year. delivered and we can all help by “We were faced with a potential getting vaccinated and not being off swine flu pandemic last year and, work with a preventable illness. thankfully, it didn’t happen because Medical director David Emerton people took the threat seriously (pictured receiving his flu jab from and, for the most part, protected lead nurse in occupational health, themselves against it. Jude Cooper) said: “We’ve been “Flu can be serious and even fatal, working hard to make it as easy even in normally fit and well people, as possible for staff to get the flu so it’s vital we protect ourselves and vaccine. We’re encouraging all staff our patients, and that’s what this to take advantage of this and get year’s campaign is aiming to do.” the vaccine as soon as possible to Your right; your duty; protect themselves, their patients your responsibility and their family. • You have a right to be protected “The important message is your from infection when caring for NHS needs you. Don’t get flu, patients with flu and we are get vaccinated.”

December 10/January 11 Helping children on the road to recovery Play specialists at North Tees and Goodwin said: “Children are at Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust their most vulnerable when they raised awareness of the value are in hospital. Not only are they of play for young patients during ill, but are also separated from their national Play in Hospital Week. friends and familiar surroundings. The team of seven play specialists “We encourage children to keep at the trust work alongside up their usual interests and use Karen with her retirement cake doctors and nurses to welcome specific distraction techniques to children and teenagers to hospital make sure they feel comfortable Karen says and prepare them to cope with and well informed during their surgery or other procedures stay in hospital. We have a range goodbye after 37 using play and distraction of equipment for children of any items to help them through the age in a separate area to the years’ service hospital experience. hospital ward. Children feel like Hospital play specialist Christine this is a safe environment. With a career of 37 years to acknowledge, outpatient sister Karen Abbot’s retirement was Play specialists Jennie Hobbs and too good an opportunity to Lynn Dowson miss for some nostalgia to be “There are arts and crafts, books, on display. Pride of place was games and a room especially for a special cake with a picture teenagers with a TV, sofa and of Karen taken more than 30 music. If children are too poorly years ago. to go into the play areas – we take Karen started her training in play to their bedside. 1973. She was one of the “We bring pantomimes and first groups of students to magicians to the children’s ward join what was then North to keep the children entertained Tees Hospital and she lived and help take away their worries – in the residences at Farndale they always seem to enjoy it. House. She started working Matron for paediatrics Heather at the hospital in 1974 and Duckers added: “The hospital play worked there ever since. specialists play a very important Describing North Tees like role in caring for children and I a second family she said: think they do a brilliant job. It is “Friends and colleagues Patient Adam Butterfield plays with his favourite toy, Iggle Piggle with play all about improving the children’s have been here for me specialist Christine Goodwin and dad John Butterfield stay in hospital.” through happy and sad times and without them I wouldn’t have been able to Fundraising in memory of our mum enjoy such a fulfilling and rewarding career. When community nurse Lynne the Machu Picchu trail – the “It’s been a privilege to Dutton and her family lost ancient ruins. work with you all and I’d their mum to motor neurone Lynne continued: “The walk took like to thank each and every disease in June 2008, they us four days. It was a journey one of you for your support were determined to fundraise in that changed our lives. and friendship.” her memory. “It was a very emotional trip Karen received a Pandora Lynne said: “Our mum, Sheila that seen us laugh and cry necklace with charms and a died only eight months after as we remembered those Pandora charm birthstone for diagnosis, aged 67 - this was that we had lost to this a bracelet she already has. a particularly cruel blow to us. devastating disease.“ She is planning to spend time She was also our disabled ”We achieved the highest ever with the family and doing father’s carer, who has since amount raised on a single event. some home improvements. passed away. 35 walkers raised £190.000 for Lynne with brothers Alan and Neil in the care and research of Motor Karen’s friend and colleague “She was diagnosed with a rapid the Andes sister Marie Smith added: form of the disease called bulbar Neurone Disease sufferers. “We’re certainly going to miss palsy. We were devastated. “This spurred us on to sign up and realise the importance of Karen. She’s been a constant We decided to put our time with the association again and working together to support the feature in the outpatients and energy into raising money try to top this amount. charity in aiding sufferers and department for many years. and awareness for the Motor “Next May we will walk on the their families who are struggling He heart is in the right place Neurone Disease Association.” Great Wall of China for five days; with the long-lasting effects of and it shows when she’s Last year Lynne and her along with other fundraisers. the disease.” If you would like meeting patients. We all wish brothers Alan and Neil tackled a ”We are a Hartlepool family; to support us go to http://www. her well for her retirement.” 26 mile walk in the Andes along all of a nursing background, justgiving.com/sheilasutheran/.”

018|019 Residents Kath Pickering and Betty Elliot have a game Nancy Close takes her turn on the Wii Fit of Connect 4 in the garden Wii are keeping fit! Residents at Parkside Court in Thornaby are Wii games console for the residents and hold very competitive!” keeping active thanks to health trainers at North bowling competitions in the lounge. It’s great Resident Nancy Close, 85 added: “It’s an Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. because everyone can have a go. opportunity to make friends and have a giggle.” A giant game of Connect 4, chess, croquet and “It helps their coordination, memory and keeps Elaine continued: “For the keen gardeners, ten pin bowling on the Wii Fit are just some of them fit and active. we’ve got some gardening equipment the activities keeping the residents in shape. “It’s a regular thing now – so they’ve become on order too and raised flowerbeds for Senior health trainer Elaine Russon, pictured quite competitive. easy access. below with residents said: “I spoke to the Betty Elliott, 83 has been a resident since “The grounds here are so beautiful – this is residents here to find out what activities they Parkside Court opened five years ago. She said: an excellent opportunity for the residents to would be interested in. “It’s marvellous. I take part in everything. My make the most of them. “It was fantastic news to receive the grant. The sons always say I’m never here! – I enjoy having “No matter what age you are or how active games are good exercises and great to keep plenty to do.” you are – there is something out there to help their mind active too. It’s a pleasure for me to Resident Kath Pickering, 61 has been a resident everyone keep in shape and feel healthier.” hear them having fun. for two years. She said: “It’s lovely here at Service delivery manager Margaret Boyd at “The residents can choose to take part in as Parkview Court – it almost feels like a hotel. Parkside Court added: “The residents at Parkside much or as little as they wish. We go on trips The activities which Elaine organises and these Court love the opportunity to be regularly active. to the local parks, we do tai chi and gentle new games are fantastic. ”We’re committed at Anchor to provide seated exercise. “It keeps us busy and makes the day go quicker. more than just care and housing by ensuring “Every Friday morning we take our Nintendo My favourite is Connect 4 and the Wii Fit. When all our residents lead happy, active lives. It’s the weather is fine, we can take the games great to see them enjoying the benefits of such outside – but they can be used indoors too, so a programme.” they’ll keep us occupied all year round!” For more information about the health trainer “We can’t get enough of the Nintendo service in Hartlepool and Stockton please Wii ten pin bowling game. We’re becoming phone 01642 853998.

Having a game of chess in the garden

December 10/January 11 Charity shop Patients, public and donation helps staff are eyes newborn babies and ears of The ladies from the Murray generous donation. Street charity shop in “The BabyPod will allow Audit North Hartlepool have visited the trust us to transport newborn once again to donate a cheque babies that may need extra An organisation set up to tackle for £3000. care without the need to fraud in the NHS is inviting staff, Director of finance and information This time the majority of the use a more cumbersome patients and the public to contact John Maddison money is to be used towards transport incubator.” them if they suspect a fraud. a BabyPod for the birthing The balance of the donation Audit North is part of a national centre at the University Hospital is to be used to buy a television network designed to raise her journey to her permanent job of Hartlepool. for the preassessment awareness about fraud in the to submit false times sheets. This Specialist lead midwife Dennise waiting room and suitable NHS, try to prevent it and take was only picked up after a coding Butcher said: “We are extremely chairs for patients with hip or action against those who are mis- system was introduced that the grateful to the ladies for this knee problems. using NHS funds. subject was not aware of. She Counter fraud specialist Sheila pleaded guilty to two charges of Webb explains: “Fraud in the fraud by misrepresentation and NHS takes away precious money received a custodial sentence of intended for patient care. As an 18 months and ordered to pay organisation we’re determined to £37,000 compensation within protect the NHS and ensure the eight weeks. money we all put into it is used for False prescriptions the purpose it was intended for. A trainee GP in West Yorkshire We’ll continue to root out fraud was found guilty of issuing false and we very much depend on prescriptions to herself and a staff, patients and the public to be friend for codeine, temazepam and the eyes and ears for us.” diazepam. As a result she received Recent successful prosecutions eight months imprisonment Illegal worker suspended for 18 months and In March 2005 a kitchen porter ordered to perform 100 hours of working with Harrogate and unpaid work within 12 months. Pain management specialists Barbara Reynard and Brenda Slater receive the District NHS Foundation Trust The counter fraud service referred cheque from the Murray Street ladies. purported to be South African and the case for consideration to the did not require a work permit. In General Medical Council resulting support of his identity he produced in the doctor being suspended a South African passport and from practice for 12 months. birth certificate. During the Director of finance and information Farewell to Nick national fraud initiative (where for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Friends and colleagues were brought in house three all public bodies submit their Foundation Trust John Maddison gathered to say farewell to years ago. Nick, a keen golfer, employees’ details to the Audit said: “As custodians of huge domestic services manager plans to spend more time Commission for cross matching) amounts of public money it is Nick Clements. Nick joined on the course. An ex police an anomaly was flagged up about our duty to ensure it is spent the trust from Sodexho, the inspector he is also planning the man’s entitlement to work in in the way it was intended. We company which provided to write a book about his early the UK. He resigned after being can not and will not tolerate any domestic services before they years in the force. spoken to by his line manager. breech of trust caused by fraud. Enquiries suggested that he It is damaging, not only to the was not entitled to work in the individual themselves but to the UK. On 6 August 2010 the man whole NHS because the public was sentenced to nine months trusts us to do the right thing. imprisonment suspended for “We working closely and two years and 200 hours unpaid co-operate with Audit North and community work after being we share their commitment to found guilty of false accounting to preventing fraud in the first place the sum of £87,000. but also tackling it whenever and False time sheets wherever it arises.” A part time clerical assistant working at the London Hospital Concerned about a fraud working on a temporary contract taking place? defrauded £37,000 by submitting If you have any concerns, contact false time sheets to the trust your local counter fraud specialist even after she had left to work on 0191 441 5937 or the fraud and permanently in a neighbouring corruption reporting line on 0800 Nick, pictured with director of operations Kevin Oxley and friends and colleagues NHS Trust. For the next 16 months 028 40 60. Every referral is treated after leaving the trust she broke in the strictest confidence. 020|021 Children’s allergies highlighted in a special awareness day

Health professionals across the consultant paediatric allergist would also pass what they’ve area had the chance to learn more from Guy’s and St Thomas’ learned on to their colleagues to about how to support children Hospital in London and national ensure children in our area are affected by allergies and their and international speaker on receiving the most up to date care families in a special awareness children’s allergies, spoke on in relation to allergies.” Consultant paediatrician Venkata Paturi day organised by North Tees and immunotherapy (using the body’s Consultant paediatrician Venkata Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. own immune system to tackle Paturi, who hosted the event on thanks to our organisers and the The day was led by consultant allergies) and how cow’s milk behalf of the trust, added: “It was co-operation of everyone who paediatrician Venkata Paturi, with can cause allergic reactions in good to see a real mix of health attended. This area of medicine help from course co-ordinators some children. professionals from junior and is changing and developing all the Sophie Tremayne and Bev Trees. Course co-ordinator Sophie senior hospital doctors, GPs, time so we plan to hold a yearly The day gave health professionals Tremayne said: “We’ve had specialist children’s and community update so we can keep abreast the latest information about food excellent feedback from the nurses. It demonstrates the of the research and evidence to allergies, eczema, allergic rhinitis day which was designed to commitment of everyone in our benefit children in our care.” (runny nose), skin-prick testing and give local health professionals area to learn about the latest Thanks to the course sponsors epipens (the injections carried by caring for children the very developments in this complex - a number of allergy-specialist people who are at risk of having latest information on the many area to ensure we are providing companies who were present a serious allergic reaction to foods allergy-related conditions which the best care possible for children on the day - whose generous like peanuts). affect children. affected by allergies. support meant the event was Guest speaker Adam Fox, a “Everyone attending said they “The day ran very smoothly, free to attend. NHS estates apprentice celebrates his success

Seventeen-year-old Marc Johnson from at The James Cook University Hospital in into the NHS from looking after water and Ormesby, an apprentice at North Tees Middlesbrough, is designed to celebrate gas systems, buildings and maintenance and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, has and acknowledge the hard work all the and electrical systems from simple light cause to celebrate. He won the first year apprentices have done and to award cups for switches to complicated pieces of kit like apprentice prize at the annual awards the top apprentice in each year. dialysis machines. made by the Northern and Yorkshire NHS In his welcome address associate director The apprentices and their parents, who Assessment Centre; the body which of estates at Northumberland, Tyne and were present to see the young men receive recruits and trains young people to become Wear NHS Foundation Trust Malcolm Aiston their certificates and awards, also heard engineers in the health service. illustrated the many areas and opportunities from four young men who have now The awards ceremony, which took place for young estates apprentices coming qualified in their chosen field of work about how the training has helped them launch their NHS career. Regional manager for the assessment centre Eileen Bayles said: “Very often apprentice achievements are not recognised, but this evening was about celebrating the success of all our apprentices, with parents, trust management, award and funding bodies. During the evening we showed a DVD made by the apprentices which gave everyone the opportunity to see the range of equipment and tasks involved in maintaining NHS buildings and environment. It may not be of Oscar standard but it gives a clear understanding of the variety of tasks involved in maintaining this unique environment. I am really proud of all them all and I know and understand how hard they have to work, even though they may not think it at times! The standard is very high which has made it very difficult to choose the winners. They are all good apprentices and in fact they are all winners in Electrical apprentice Marc Johnson pictured with associate director, operations, Peter Mitchell their own right!”

December 10/January 11 Families invited to stay and play

Mums, dads and grand parents apple bobbing too. were invited to the day nursery at Katie Hart, mum to Eva said: “Eva the University Hospital of North loves coming to the nursery.” Tees to join in the fun at a special Abbie Alderson, mum to Warren stay and play day. said: “It’s nice to have an The day was jam packed with opportunity to come in for an hour activities just in time for Halloween. and support Warren.” Children came in scary costumes. Lisa Bean, mum to Erin and Liam They painted, built towers out said: “It’s great to see the kids of wooden blocks, creatively having fun.” decorated biscuits and had a go at Ros Nunn, mum to Felicity and

Felicity and Madeline have a go with the apple bobbing, watched by mum Ros Nunn

Madeline added: “They both Hayden said: “We wanted to absolutely love it here. I know the give families the chance to come children are in safe hands and they and join in the activities with the are happy here.” children at the nursery. Childcare co-ordinator Margaret “Everyone had lots of fun.”

Join the NHS Organ Donor Register 0300 123 23 23

Little Eva shows mum Katie her painting skills Hospital nursery gets their PJs on for Pudsey

Staff and children at North Tees and said: “We are extremely proud to have Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust’s nursery supported the Children in Need campaign. pulled on their PJs for Pudsey with a special “We wanted to do something to raise event to raise money for this year’s Children some money for the appeal and we in Need appeal. thought holding a pyjama party would After a day of fun and games, the be a fun way for the staff and the generous donations came to a total children too. of £438.28 which has been kindly doubled “I would like to say a big thank you by NatWest for the worthwhile cause. to everyone who has been kind enough Child care co-ordinator Margaret Hayden to donate.” Nursery assistant Steph Milne with Jack Chisem

022|023 Trust hosts NHS Confederation study visit in Hartlepool

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS the NHS Confederation, Nigel Foundation Trust was delighted Edwards to the trust during a to welcome chief executive of recent study visit. The NHS Confederation is the independent membership body for the organisations that make up the modern NHS. Around 40 delegates from NHS organisations around the country had the chance to hear from those leading and improving services. They came to see how acute and community integration is working on the ground and heard a range of presentations from colleagues about how well the arrangements are working to benefit patients Delegates arrive at One Life Hartlepool and staff. The visit included a tour of the podiatry, community respiratory, Deputy chief executive Carole new One Life Hartlepool – a an audiology clinic, contraceptive Langrick said: “I would like £20m state-of-the-art facility in and sexual health teams and the thank everyone who contributed Taking a look around the community the town centre, which services Tees community dental service to the success of the visit by the respiratory service such as musculoskeletal, all into one central location. NHS Confederation.” Hospital restaurant gets a makeover Staff and visitors to North Tees Wilbers café, providing a more vegetables on offer. and Hartlepool NHS Foundation attractive and up-to-date facility “You can choose from fresh Trust can now tuck into some for everyone to enjoy. hot or cold sandwiches, salads, tasty food after a revamp of the Catering strategist Billy baked potatoes or bistro-style hospitals’ restaurants. Cunningham said: “We fresh cooked food to order Teams of builders, plumbers, know that the restaurants are dishes from the deli counter or painters and decorators have well used - and appreciated - traditional meals such as roasts, been busy for the past months but they’ve long been in need meat pie or lasagne. and now the new facilities at the of updating. “Or you can just relax in University Hospital of North Tees “It is great for our staff and visitors comfort and enjoy the range of are open. to eat in modern surroundings. hot and cold drinks and a The restaurants have been “We’ve updated the menus too. delicious snack. made over with a redesign and The choice is endless – there “People who come here get a refurbishment with a modern are plenty of healthy options, relaxing dining experience while twist to complement the stylish vegetarian and fresh fruit and paying less than they would on the High Street.” Head of design and development Steve Taylor, responsible for the project added: “We’ve installed equipment designed to make Catering strategist Billy Cunningham the kitchens as energy-efficient as possible such as improved staff who share their time refrigeration, dish washing between the restaurant and facilities, lighting, heating and Wilbers cafe, with profits going ventilation systems. back into the hospital. “We are working to “We’ve had some great improve every part of the feedback so far. We are patients’ experience. constantly trying to find new “The standard of the restaurants ways to improve the standards reflects our commitment to while at the same time making high standards of care and sure we offer good value.” cleanliness at the trust.” The restaurants are part of an Billy continued: “The facilities investment in food services for New stylish restaurant facility are staffed by our own catering staff, patients and visitors.

December 10/January 11 Pedal power a boost for Jessie’s Fund Staff from the trust joined forces worthwhile and enjoyable at the with a group of intrepid cyclists to same time. We were part of a take part in Amsterslam 2010, a large group and the camaraderie now annual event where cyclists was brilliant.” can explore the Dutch capital, “We were really pleased to have make new friends and raise much raised money, with the support of needed funds for charities at the our friends and colleagues who same time. very generously sponsored us, for Associate director of finance this excellent cause.” David Brown, associate director “There were several bumps, of contracts Pam Gretton and bruises and swellings to show for director of finance and information it when we came back but it was John Maddison took to their worth it.” saddles for the event and raised Jessie’s Fund was founded by Lynda (in pink) with colleagues at Lawson Street Health Centre an impressive £2,424.50 between Lesley Schatzberger in memory of them, during the course of the her daughter, who died when she 250 mile bike ride from York to was nine. It’s a small charity helps Amsterdam and back. very ill children and those with Colleagues say David (pictured) said: “We are all special needs to communicate keen cyclists and we thought it by using music. You can find out farewell to Lynda would be good to do something more at www.jessiesfund.org.uk,

Colleagues and friends last 12 years. gathered to say farewell to Lynda said: “I’ve really enjoyed lead associate specialist Lynda developing the services and Turner as she retired from being involved in training. the trust. “I will really miss the team Since qualifying in 1977 at here. I’m looking forward to Newcastle, Lynda has worked retirement, spending more time in contraception and sexual in Cambridge and doing more health services for more than charity work.” 20 years. Specialist services manager She became head of service Nicola D’Northwood added: at Gateshead for eight years “On behalf of our colleagues before moving to North Tees I wish Lynda all the best for and Hartlepool NHS Foundation her retirement. She has been a Trust, where she has spent the pleasure to work with.” No charge to health as staff recycle batteries Staff at the trust are being asked to think green before they throw their old batteries in the bin. We have teamed up with environment to dispose of collected by Battery Back and Battery Back, a battery them through landfill as these taken for recycling completely recycling firm, to help save harmful chemicals leak into free of charge. the environment from the the soil. John added: “Recycling also estimated 29,000 tonnes of “We are installing recycling helps to minimise carbon batteries which go to landfill bins in both the University emissions by reducing the each year in the UK. Hospital of Hartlepool and the need for using new materials Environment, health and safety University Hospital of North to manufacture batteries. manager John Bushnall said: Tees and also in our community “Batteries contain various premises and health clinics.” Across the trust we use in hazardous metals such as The 5ltr bins will be positioned the region of 50,000 batteries lead, mercury, cadmium, in various departments and each year so this represents Environment, health and safety manager zinc, manganese and lithium. once full will be emptied into a substantial contribution to John Bushnall with one of the recycling bins It can be damaging to the larger 60litre bins which will be reducing our carbon footprint.”

024|025 Consultant paediatrician urges smokers to take 7 steps out Clinical director for family health and consultant paediatrician Jagat Jani is backing a campaign to urge smokers to take their cigarette outside and protect children from toxic, invisible smoke.

The campaign from Fresh and protection for children. It can hang advice to parents on the best backed by the British Lung around for hours and even if you ways to protect children from Foundation calls on mums, dads can’t see it, it is still there. second hand smoke. and grandparents who can’t quit “It is worrying that despite the Earlier this year the Royal College to take 7 steps out, rather than clear link between smoking of Physicians revealed that passive subject children to a chemical and illness, some parents still smoking results in 300,000 GP cocktail in the home. doubt that their smoking will appointments and 10,000 hospital Jagat said: “Almost every day we harm their children. visits for children a year. New treat children who are suffering “Thankfully more and more figures released today for the breathing problems directly related people are starting to recognise North East estimate that means: to the second hand smoke they the benefits of quitting • 84,000 North East children are are inhaling in homes and cars. completely or at least taking exposed to second hand smoke “It can be a surprise to parents or their smoking outside and away in the home carers that the smoke from the tip from children. We need to do • 800 chest infections for of their cigarette or cigar is more more to educate them about under twos toxic than what they are inhaling. the risks, which is where this • 4,900 middle ear infections for Because this smoke is unfiltered, campaign fits in.” 0-16yr-olds it is the most toxic sort. The campaign is part of a wider • 900 new cases of wheeze & “The fact is that if you can smell programme that has so far asthma for 0-16yr-olds cigarette smoke, it is harming trained over 300 front line health, • 24 cases of bacterial meningitis you and those around you. Often local authority and children’s • 12,600 children needing to visit people think that opening a centre staff across the region, the GP window is solving the problem, including children’s centre staff in • 400 children needing to go but in reality it is not enough Stockton and Hartlepool, to give to hospital. Consultant paediatrician Jagat Jani

Thank you! Join the NHS Chief executive Alan Foster paid “The team know that patients the latest deep cleaning tribute to the hard work of the want to see a clean room when technology – hydrogen Organ Donor ward hygienist and domestic they come into hospital, and peroxide fogging machines, Register services team at a special thank when they see something needs which generate a dry mist to you event. doing, they do it straight away. decontaminate the environment Director of operations Kevin “They are very thorough, take and kill any micro organisms that 0300 123 Oxley said: “They are a fully real pride in their work and are could be present. committed team who put patient always looking to help out.” We are now also deep cleaning 23 23 care at the top of their priorities. Last year the trust invested in using dry steam vapour in addition to the routine daily cleaning to maintain the standards that our patients deserve. “We are faced with new challenges all the time, but our team continues to adapt and are committed to improving standards. “Cleanliness is our priority and each and every member of the team has a role to play in reducing our infection rate and improving the Team work - Chief executive Alan Foster and director of operations Kevin Oxley hospital environment say thank you to the ward hygienist and domestic services team for our patients.”

December 10/January 11 What a difference a leader makes Senior nurse practice placement facilitators midwives or paramedics, without you our from acute, primary care, mental health and programmes could not be delivered. North East Ambulance Trusts teamed up to “The work that practice placement facilitators host a regional conference for mentors working do is excellent. It enables us to maintain our in Teesside’s NHS organisations. placements. Mentors ensure we maintain The conference, held at Teesside University our standards and ensure our graduates are fit was opened by assistant dean Bernie Wallis. for practice. She said: “I’m delighted to see everyone “They fulfil a key role in shaping the practitioners here today. Mentors play a key role – nurses, of the future. A high standard of mentors equals a high standard of care. “They enable students to learn.” “Mentors are there to encourage students to take those steps forward and encourage best practice.” Delegates got the chance to hear from keynote speakers Howard Naylor about emotional intelligence and the qualities needed to be a good mentor, Kathleen Duffy on how Senior nurse practice placement facilitator Sharon Oyston mentors impact practice and Carol Mitchell who spoke about what the mentor’s role is to take those steps forward and encourage in service improvement. Later, delegates got best practice. the opportunity to share their own practice Senior nurse practice placement facilitator mentoring experiences with mentors from a Jean Angus added: “Here at North Tees and range of healthcare disciplines. Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, mentors Senior practice placement facilitator Sharon do an excellent job. We get fantastic Oyston said: “This was an excellent opportunity feedback from our students. They always tell for mentors to come together, learn, share and us they are well supported which is an Keynote speakers Howard Naylor, Kathleen Duffy and reflect on their experiences. essential quality to ensure the best care is Carol Mitchell “Mentors are there to encourage students provided for our patients.”

Join the NHS Trust forges links to help rebuild in Cambodia Organ Donor The killing fields of Cambodia was an unusual the rebuilding programme is director of nursing agenda item for the trust’s Tuesday morning and patient safety Sue Smith. She and her Register executive meeting. But the agenda item was husband Tim are giving up their leave and paying an unforgettable one as Setan Lee, related his for themselves to go to Cambodia. 0300 123 ordeal of surviving the killing fields between 1975 Sue said: “When we heard about the reality and 1979. people are living with we were both moved and 23 23 Almost two million people out of a population wanted to do something practical to help.” of eight million lost their lives, but Setan, who Sue and Tim will travel to Cambodia in the represents TransformAsia described the hope and new year with a team led by Edwin Pugh. They determination of the survivors to rebuild after will be working long hours building and providing the devastation. any practical support needed during their two In his presentation to the directors he said: “There week stay. were very few doctors left; so many were killed in the atrocities. We now have people who have had a modest amount of medical training who we rely on for medical and surgical care, but it’s better than nothing. “We are trying to build a 30 bedded hospital and we have come to ask for help.” Professor Edwin Pugh, who is international link with TransformAsia, said: “We take many things for granted as far as our health services are concerned. It’s unimaginable that the Cambodian people do not have enough hospitals or skilled staff to provide care. “I was delighted that the directors welcomed Setan to their meeting and I am looking forward to forging even greater links between the trust and TransformAsia.” One of the first people to make a commitment to Setan Lee, Edwin Pugh and Sue Smith

026|027 Stroke services now among best in country Strokes are to the brain what a heart attack is to the heart, however while a heart attack kills off part of the heart muscle, a stroke kills off part of the brain and can have a major effect on movement and speech. Strokes are still a major cause of death or disability.

But patients affected by stroke in the Stockton, Hartlepool and parts of Easington and Sedgefield are receiving stroke services which are among the very best in the country. The work of consultant physician Helen Skinner and her colleagues Helen Skinner talks to members at a recent event right across North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust called TIAs – transient ischaemic “I think this place in both of our hospitals. We have taken the trust’s performance attacks. They are when there is now offer speech and language to the top 25 per cent in the weakness lasting only a short demonstrates therapy and physiotherapy much country. But they’re not content time, often minutes. We now run what a fantastic, earlier to give people the best to stay there. They are now clinics seven days a week to see chance of recovery. working on further improvements people who have experienced this enthusiastic and “Although there have been big to ensure gold standard stroke type of feeling. We can see if dedicated team changes we are keen to continue care for local people. the patient is at risk of having a to develop stroke services stroke and give them advice about we have.” further. Recent developments how they can help themselves to have included the agreement for “With all strokes reduce the chance of going on to the blockage of blood to the two new speech and language it’s vital to start have a stroke. brain. We need to give this therapists dedicated for stroke “When someone has had a stroke treatment within a very short services. Our nurses and treatment early we are far better at giving the space of time from the person psychologists are developing to ensure the treatment which will result in a actually having the stroke which relaxation and improving sleep better recovery for the patient. is why people should ring 999 programmes which we know will best outcome for We’ve seen major advances in the straightaway if they suspect help patients to recover. the patient.” way we can now treat strokes. The someone has had a stroke. We “We have lots of ideas for further FAST (face, arms and speech test) now offer this treatment 24 hours improvements and it’s a tribute Helen Skinner, who is also campaign was all about giving a day, seven days a week at the to everyone involved in caring for regional clinical lead for the people information so they could University Hospital of North Tees people affected by stroke that cardiovascular network, explained: identify when they or someone so patients from the whole of the we’re eager to bring in further “In the last four years we have they know is having a stroke. area we serve can be assured that improvements rather than just radically changed stroke services. It’s good that this campaign has they have the very best chance of being content with the massive These changes we have made got the message home to people a recovery. amounts of progress we have have taken us to the top 25 per because people are acting quickly “With all strokes – whether a made. I think this demonstrates cent and for some parts of the now and this makes a significant bleed or a blockage – it’s vital what a fantastic, enthusiastic and service into the top 10 per cent in difference to the chances of to start treatment early to dedicated team we have. the country. successful treatment and a good ensure the best outcome for the “It has been challenging and “We are much more proactive recovery for the patient. patient. One important factor is exciting to bring in these changes in identifying the early signs that “Certain types of stroke respond that patients are admitted to a but there’s doubt in my mind that someone may be at risk of having to thrombolysis – a treatment to stroke unit rather than a general they have benefited patients, their a stroke. These early signs are break up the clot which is causing medical ward and we have this in families and staff.” December 10/January 11 Nicola TPOT lid comes off Herraghty at North Tees Following the successful launch is yet another strand of the very the organisation need to work at the University Hospital of successful Productive series together. The day stimulated Hartlepool, the lid has now come developed by the NHS Institute lots of discussion and the off the TPOT at the University for Innovation and Improvement. atmosphere was really buzzing.” Hospital of North Tees. Theatre sister Nicola Herraghty TPOT aims to TPOT stands for The Productive (pictured) launched the • increase the safety and reliability Operating Theatre and is the programme. She said: “The of care nickname for a project involving Productive Operating Theatre is • improve team performance provide that.” all theatre staff and everyone all about turning good services and leadership Nicola Herraghty added: “We who is connected with operating into great services for patients • add value and improve came away from the day with theatres, either because they and staff. efficiency a good consensus about what operate there or they contribute to “We had an excellent launch • improve the patient experience needs to be done and bags the effective and efficient running day with more than 90 Director of finance and information of enthusiasm. of operating theatres right across colleagues taking part. John Maddison is the executive “At the end of the day we all North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Seeing everyone together is a sponsor for the programme. He want to work in the best reminder that, for theatres to be Foundation Trust. said: “I am delighted to be the service and provide the best The Productive Operating Theatre effective, many people across sponsor for this programme. This services for patients. I know we’ll is a complex area. Its success succeed if we keep this at the depends not only on theatre forefront of everything we do. staff themselves but the many “Other organisations around the other people such as surgeons, region and the country are looking nurses and anaesthetists and a to see how the work progresses. whole host of other people such We are leading in this area and as supplies and administrative others are keen to learn from us.” staff working together to make The North Tees TPOT vision the service work well. Like cogs Safe high quality care is in a machine, each component delivered for every patient all of depends on another to enable it the time by PERFECT teams to run smoothly. “The Productive Operating PERFECT Theatre framework enables P = Professional staff to identify and make the E = Enthusiastic improvements themselves. It’s a R = Resourceful bottom up rather than top down F = Flexible approach. However it’s essential E = Efficient to have top level support and C = Communication Staff deep in discussion at the launch event I am pleased and privileged to T = Timely National map helps doctors decide on best course of treatment We’re used to looking at a map Consultant in accident and means that the journey is the same, or even programming our satnav if emergency Kay Adeboye explained: whatever part of the country you live we want to get somewhere, but a “The Map of Medicine is a fantastic or work in. The only slight difference new software package called Map additional resource for health is that, like when you set out on a of Medicine is helping healthcare professionals. If you relate it to journey, you may alter your journey professionals decide on the best setting out on a journey then there a little bit because you know the course of action for their patients. are things we all do to prepare local area. The Map of Medicine health guides, ourselves for that journey. One of “The Map of Medicine allows for designed and developed by health the things is to understand where these types of changes without professionals or reviewed by other we are going and how we are going affecting the national standards, health professionals for health to get there. During our training so it’s a very powerful tool for professionals and packaged onto there will some things people will health professionals. Also, knowing one site for ease of access to give be very familiar with. There will be that is has been designed and GPs, hospital doctors, nurses and others that they aren’t, so the guides developed by health professionals midwives support when making are a very helpful route map to for health professionals means that decisions about a patient’s care, guide the health professional to get the Map of Medicine is trusted by such as when to run specific tests or the patient where they need to be. health professionals.” make a referral to another specialist. Because these are national guides it Kay added: “Healthcare professionals

028|029 Supporting you all the way Many people who have cancer Macmillan nurses and palliative will have contact with Macmillan, care consultants. or they may have a friend or “I mainly care for cancer patients family member who has been but we also receive referrals for helped at some point. non cancer illnesses such as Macmillan occupational therapist motor neurone disease. We’re a Helen Caudren is part of that team specialist service providing that – giving that extra help when it’s support and care for patients with needed. Deputy chief executive a life limiting illness. Carole Langrick spent the day “I go into a patient’s home with a with Helen to find out more. blank canvass. I help them identify Helen explained: “There is no such thing as a typical day. It’s problems. Then we can set goals, never predictable. I pick up my solve problems and help them to messages, plan my day and then be as independent as possible. I go out on the home visits.” Helen works in the community, “I work with a caring for people in their own homes. fantastic team. She continued: “We get We support referrals from other health- care professionals, including each other.”

Carole heads out on a visit with Helen

“I’m here to advise and help fantastic team. We support patients manage the important each other. every day activities. This maybe “I get job satisfaction through someone who has difficulty going knowing I’ve done as much as I up the stairs or it could be that can for the patient and their family their aim is something simple, at what is a very difficult time. such as getting home to sit in “I’m here as and when the patient needs me. My patients their own chair or sleep in their know they can contact me own bed. anytime if things change. “We supply patients with special “When people are given their equipment they may need diagnosis, their priorities change. to adapt to being back at Things like personal hygiene, home after cancer treatment or dressing and mealtimes have a teach them new ways of carrying different meaning when people out activities. are not well. “It can be hard and it’s not a “It’s about helping people regain Carole chats to Helen and colleague Macmillan physiotherapist Debra Alton job for everyone. I work with a some control in their lives.” National map helps doctors decide on best course of treatment can be confident that Map of Medicine uses the most up to date information and medical practices. It’s a great teaching resource. ”It’s a very important source of clinical information. All of the information is on one site packaged under specialities. It will be excellent for the junior doctors. “There are many other advantages. Say, a GP wants to refer a patient; they can use the Map of Medicine guides to arrange the right kind of tests before the consultation. Patients can also look at the Map of Medicine guides on NHS Choices. This means they can see what the next steps are likely to be and what choices they will have. “It’s a great resource. I’m sure it will save valuable time for both the consultant and the patient.” You can take a look at Consultant in accident and emergency Kay Adeboye and specialist http://www.mapofmedicine.com/ registrar Ignatio Cardona take a look at the Map of Medicine

December 10/January 11 Trust completes first hip joint recall The trust, which was one of the patients have had the hip joints first health organisations in the replaced. Others will continue to world to identify a problem with have blood tests and ultrasound certain metal hip joints, has now examinations to make sure the finished its first recall of patients. joint is functioning properly. Orthopaedic surgeon Tony Nargol “Uppermost in our thoughts and research fellow Dave Langton has been the need to put from North Tees and Hartlepool people’s minds at rest while NHS Foundation Trust discovered balancing this with making abnormal wear and tear in certain sure we could cope with the types of metal hip joints. Tony increased number of clinics and Nargol is now one of a handful of associated work we needed to world experts on this subject. organise. I’m very grateful to our His discovery, along with whole orthopaedic team and the evidence from other centres, led radiology and pathology department to the Medicines and Healthcare for the way they have helped us products Regulatory Agency address this.” (MHRA) to issue a medical The trust is now looking to recall device alert instructing health another group of patients who organisations to set up systems have had a different type of hip to recall patients who had that replacement. Surgeons are particular type of joint. expecting fewer people in this The trust started the recall group will need their joints replaced in May and has now seen 382 and are assuring patients that only patients who had this type of those with a joint which could be joint replacement. a cause for concern will receive Clinical director of orthopaedics a letter. This recall is expected to at North Tees and Hartlepool begin in the next few weeks. NHS Foundation Trust Chris The Medicines and Healthcare Tulloch said: “Thanks to Tony’s products Regulatory Agency work we’ve been able to respond (MHRA) is the organisation which to this very quickly. enhances and safeguards the “We knew there was a problem health of the public by ensuring and we’d stopped using the joints that medicines and medical as soon as this came to light. devices work and are acceptably Clinical director for orthopaedics Chris Tulloch is interviewed by BBC Look North From the 382 people seen, 16 safe. www.mhra.gov.uk about the trust’s hip joint recall Trust hosts maternity National Patient Safety Agency masterclass

The National Patient Safety Agency - the presentations and shared ideas about how patient experience and make maternity organisation which leads and contributes to to further improve safety for women and services as safe as they can possibly be. improved, safe patient care by informing, their babies. “We heard presentations from Anita Dougall, supporting and influencing the health sector Clinical director for obstetrics and gynae- NPSA patient safety lead for maternity, as - has held a regional masterclass at the cology Steve Wild said: “We were delighted well as from colleagues both within the trust University Hospital of North Tees. to host this important master class on behalf and across the region on various aspects The session highlighted patient safety of the National Patient Safety Agency. of patient safety. The information covered in maternity care, delegates from trusts “We are constantly looking at ways to make provided everyone with ideas to take away across this and other local regions heard further improvements which enhance the that we can apply in our own services.”

Clinical director for obstetrics and gynaecology NPSA patient safety lead for maternity Anita Dougall Keynote speakers Steve Wild, Janet Alderton, Anita Steve Wild joins a group discussion Dougall and Kath Manion

030|031 The family has set up a memorial fund in Jonathan’s name with charity CRY, Cardiac Funds raised in memory of son Risk in the Young. Family and friends joined together in a Midwife Sue Ainsworth, whose world was crushed by the sudden death of sponsored walk and raised about £2,500 her 21 year-old son from an undetected heart problem, is raising cash in his towards an initial fundraising target of £5,000 name to ensure other families don’t go through the same devastation. which will go towards CRY. After that the family has set a target to raise £6,000 to pay for a young people’s heart screening roadshow to come to Teesside. Sue said: “These checks are not performed on the NHS unless there is a family history. “We don’t want other families to go through the same thing,” Sue’s son Jonathan died in his sleep. Medics told Sue her son’s death was due to Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS), which is linked to undetected heart problems. The silent killer claims the lives of 12 young people under the age of 35 a week in the UK and has been compared to the adult version of cot death. Anyone who wants to donate to Jonathan’s fund can do so at www.justgiving.com/ Family and friends gather on the sponsored walk in memory of Jonathan susan-ainsworth. Chemotherapy unit unveiled The new chemotherapy unit at the University Hospital of Hartlepool has been unveiled after undergoing a refurbishment. The refurbishment, funded by generous donations of about £16,000 brings huge benefits for chemotherapy patients, with a spacious new facility on the ground floor. Former patients were invited to a special opening event to take a first look at the facilities. Chemotherapy nurse specialist Rosie Livingston said: “Most of the refurbishment has been funded by donations. We can’t thank the members of the public enough for their generosity.

New look – chemotherapy specialist nurses Pam Hauxwell and Rosie Livingston greet some visitors

“Previously we used to have just two rooms, experience better for patients by being able to but now we have a main waiting area, another provide extra comforts such as a flat-screen TV, room with two beds in, there is a family radios and a DVD player. quiet room for counselling and chatting, two “On behalf of all of us, I want to thank treatment rooms and male and female toilets. everyone from Hartlepool and east Durham for Non executive director Steve Hall takes a look round the “It will improve waiting times and privacy and their generosity. new unit with specialist nurse Rosie Livingston, design dignity for patients. Being on the ground floor “We are grateful for all the donations that and development manager Glen Newby, capital planning means that it’s much easier to access too.” we have had and we want to acknowledge manager Gareth Neal and matron Fiona McEvoy Donations have also contributed to making the everyone who has put in .”

December 10/January 11 Consultant haematologist Zor Maung, ward matron Sheila Mounter and consultant haema- Locality manager intermediate care Shirley Anderson, team leader rapid response team tologist Philip Mounter receive their award from chairman NHS North East Sir Peter Carr Hartlepool Maureen Tweddle and heart failure specialist nurse Hartlepool Karen Hann Award winning care celebrated at regional awards ceremony Each year, dedicated health and the treatment I received. have a choice to receive care in social care teams are recognised “The open access which I was their own home. for their work at a prestigious given to the ward meant that “It allows patients to be in control, awards ceremony. I could be treated as much as manage their health needs and Patients at North Tees and possible at home, safe in the keeps them independence. Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust knowledge that should we be “Patients receive seamless care can be confident of receiving award- worried about anything there was from the heart failure nurse winning care after two teams took always someone there in the unit specialist and the rapid response runner up position. to advise us. nursing team. The haematology day unit at Brian’s wife Lillian added: “I also “Patients have told us they the University Hospital of North know that being in his own home appreciate being able to get in Tees was recognised for their helped Brian’s recovery.” touch immediately if they have felt work in the support for Also taking the runner up title in ill or were worried. Brian and Lillian Dixon independence category. the primary care and community “They tell us how very caring the The eight-bed facility treats patient based integration category was the nurses are. They are willing to with malignant and haematological integrated heart failure care team. stay and listen, to help people and be shortlisted. conditions. A highly trained nursing The Hartlepool heart failure always there if you need to talk Chief executive Alan Foster said: team and immediate access to specialist nurses and the rapid by phone”. “I would like to add my a consultant 24/7 allows 24 hour response team were nominated as The North East Health and Social congratulations to the teams who open access to patients to allow regional finalists for their integrated Care Awards have been running were recognised at the awards. patients home based care. heart failure care pathway. now since 2001 and this year’s “I hope the staff feel very proud Former patient, Brian Dixon Locality manager intermediate competition attracted 91 entrants. of their achievements as they pictured with his wife said: “I was care Hartlepool Shirley Anderson Each winning entry and represent the very best of the treated in the haematology unit a said: “We looked at the best runner up had to demonstrate many improvements taking place couple of years ago. I never failed way to allow patients who are exceptional work in delivering in health and social care right to be impressed by the staff and being treated for fluid overload to patient improvements just to across the north east.”

Trust supports suicide prevention week Staff from the North of Tees department of liaison psychiatry raised awareness of mental health issues and suicide prevention during the recent international suicide prevention week. Advanced practitioner Elaine Wells said: “Talking about suicide, even simply asking someone how they are feeling can be the key to helping to prevent suicide. It can also help people to deal with their problems. On average, almost 3000 people commit suicide daily. For every person who completes a suicide, 20 or more Team lead / advanced practitioner Elaine Wells and liaison practitioner may attempt to end their lives.” Susan Redshaw

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