the

August 2012 gazette issue 29 Nurse named clinical lead for major trauma

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Trust chairman Christopher Smallwood swapped his jacket and tie for scrubs and gloves as he spent the day with Susan Hutchinson and Renate Wendler, consultant anaesthetists, learning about an anaesthetist’s role in surgery. Christopher said: “It’s impossible not to be impressed by the knowledge, technical skill and complete concentration our anaesthetists have to demonstrate during Susan Hutchinson, Christopher each procedure Smallwood and Renate Wendler every day.”

St George’s breast CONTENTS cancer service wins national improvement 3 A word from... award Miles Scott, chief executive The breast cancer service team 3 Trust news has won an NHS Improvement 5 Patient perspective award for reducing the amount Peter Cranham, of time that patients spend in patient advocate hospital following surgery. for people with learning disabilities In January 2011 the team 6 Membership matters introduced a new 23-hour Focus on breast cancer discharge model for breast Nominate your NHS Heroes cancer patients. As a result 7 Living our values awards there has been a remarkable 8 Spotlight on improvement in the length-of- The Acute Medicine Unit stay figures for breast patients (AMU) with 83 per cent discharged 9 Patient feedback Sue (left) with Ann Vieira, manager of Eloise Lingerie in two days or less. Patients Past and present previously needed to stay up to 10 Patient safety Breast care nurse five days in hospital. 11 Top tips wins patient award Mr Dibyesh Banerjee, consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon 12 Charity news A St George’s Healthcare nominated, and even more said: “Most of our patients nurse has been voted ‘Breast amazing to actually win. now stay in hospital for just a Front cover shows Heather Jarman, Care Nurse of the Year 2011’ consultant nurse in emergency medicine. “The award means even more single night, with some being by patients and customers of With thanks to Yusuf Ozkizil, Colin to me because it was voted safely discharged on the same a specialist women’s clothing Wren and Emma Durnford for their for by patients. I would like to day as their surgery. When we photography services. company. thank the patients who took introduced the model we had the gazette is written and published by Sue Lowndes, an advanced the time to vote, and Eloise the communications unit. The opinions initially aimed for a target of 70 expressed do not necessarily represent nurse practitioner at the trust, for giving me this award.” per cent of discharges within those of St George’s Healthcare NHS was given the award after Nurses are selected for two days. Trust. If you have a story for the gazette, patients and members of please email: communications@ nomination by patients who “However, we have achieved a the public voted online and stgeorges.nhs.uk are also customers of Eloise, far better result by streamlining through the Eloise catalogue the who specialise in clothing care pathways and introducing a gazette for the nurse they felt to be for female cancer patients nurse-led discharge service. This most deserving of the prize. who have had various forms means that patients can now be Sue said: “It was a lovely of breast surgery. The award discharged efficiently and safely surprise to be given this scheme has been running seven days a week.” award. It was wonderful to be since 2009.

2 the gazette 3

More gazette details about editions of the the project will be available in future “The project has also improved the has also improved “The project The system has been fully operational on site. Bruce will lead on ensuring full clinical engagement and will work closely of estates andwith Neil Deans, director is that the project facilities, to ensure He said: “I am successfully. delivered absolutely delighted to be involved in St George’s such a worthwhile project. in partnership with our networkHealthcare, partners in south west and beyond, first class, cutting-edge service a provides and young people. Our youngfor children patients deserve a state-of- the-art, modern hospital their needsthat reflects sustainableand provides specialist care.” in day-to-day ordering of stock and can of stock in day-to-day ordering concentrate on patient care. therefore environment of the theatres it has been of the theatres environment the trust complyimplemented in, helping Long- regulations. with health and safety in stockterm, we will also see a reduction levels and waste which will bring about a financial saving for the trust.” Miles Scott, chief executive, said: “Steven and a wealth has an excellent track record of NHS experience. His knowledge and working inunderstanding gained from one of the most significant commissioning jobs in the country and for an established foundation trust will be crucial in helping us to achieve our long-term goals.” usable energy within thegases to provide hospital. Hugh Gostling, deputy director for estates and facilities, said: “This project commitment to reduce builds on the trust’s our carbon footprint and will enable the its gas usage by eight pertrust to reduce cent. The scheme will also significantly spend on gas for heating, the trust’s reduce which was £1.7m in 2011/12.” 2012 and has proven since March so successful that a ‘phase two’ has been developed which will extend the to otherdistribution of the heat reclaimed engineering plants within the hospital.

By pushing a button when taking orBy pushing a button when general managerLeila Razavi, assistant The innovative project, led by the estatesThe innovative project, fitting a piece ofThis is achieved through Clinical lead appointed for children’s hospital project Clinical lead appointed for children’s Mr Bruce Okoye, consultant paediatric and neonatal surgeon, has been appointed as the clinical lead for the children’s Hospital. at St George’s hospital project is part of hospital project The children’s long-term plans to develop its the trust’s services and women’s specialist children’s central store project central store Curtain rises on theatre rises on theatre Curtain centralThe theatre has been project store the across roll-out a success so far in its to centralise is trust. The aim of the project theatre of all the storage and ordering which store a central consumables through Wing.is based in Lanesborough the system knowsputting back any stock have used and staff what item theatre what needs team informs the central store to be replenished. will bring said: “The project for theatres, about significant benefits for clinical staff who will no longer need to be involved St George’s Healthcare has been listed as a Healthcare St George’s Awards finalist in the 2012 HSJ Efficiency that aims to project for a heat recovery carbon footprint and save the trust’s reduce money. and facilities team at the trust, uses the emitted from wasted heat gases that are energy Hospital’s the boilers at St George’s and hot water for heating to provide centre Wing.the whole of Lanesborough technology known as a Flu Gas Economiser to the boiler and combined heat and power the wasted heatexhausts which recovers New finance lead for St George’s has appointed Healthcare St George’s Steven Bolam to the position of director of finance, performance and informatics. of finance director Steven, who is currently and performance at Southampton, Isle of WightHampshire, and Portsmouth will take up his new post in PCTs, September. Innovative project named finalist in 2012 HSJ Efficiency Awards named finalist in 2012 HSJ Efficiency Innovative project

communications@stgeorges.

uk

I hope you enjoy reading the gazette I hope all our staff and members willI hope all our staff This issue also looks in closer detail Readers will also have the opportunity This issue of the gazette also celebrates Patients, members and staff shouldPatients, members and staff nhs. via email to and would welcome feedback you have Centre. about the history of St John’s Therapy about the history of St John’s (AMU) at St George’s Hospital and learns (AMU) at St George’s worthy of praise. take the opportunity to vote. at the work of the acute medicine unit to acknowledge those whose work is committed to their roles, it is important all our staff members and teams areall our staff should be the overall winner. While should be the overall winner. the staff member and team you feelthe staff encourage you to cast your vote for responsible and respectful. I would the trust’s four values of excellent, kind, the trust’s are nominated for symbolising one of the year to individuals and teams who awards. These are awarded throughout to vote in the trust’s ‘Living our Values’ ‘Living our Values’ to vote in the trust’s Miles Scott, chief executive staff are held. staff signifying the high regard in which our ‘Breast care nurse of the year’ award, nurse was voted national winner of the across our sites to mark the day. Another across our sites to mark the day. the trust, with various events being held May was widely publicised throughout have made. International Nurses’ Day in staff, and recognises achievements theystaff, the hard work and dedication of our on page 11. more about our patient safety initiatives high quality healthcare. You can read high quality healthcare. You trust’s commitment to patient safety and commitment trust’s and these measures are a sign of the have confidence in us as an organisation, our patients. number of measures in place to protect changes to senior leadership and put a gazette that since 2009, we have made I would like to reassure readers of the family. expressed our deepest apologies to the and he sadly died as a result. We have and he sadly died as a result. We failed to care for him as we should have,failed to care for him and had complex medical needs. We needs. We and had complex medical admitted to the hospital for an operationadmitted to the hospital patient at St George’s in 2009. Kane was in 2009. Kane patient at St George’s coverage on the inquest of Kane Gorny, a of Kane Gorny, coverage on the inquest Many of you will have read the mediaMany of you will have

Trust news Trust SCOTT chief executive

MILES A word from... word A Trust news

Butterfly Scheme launched in trust Over 200 trust staff and name boards of patients “The Butterfly Scheme attended an event with dementia. This allows enables staff to offer the most in May to mark staff to identify those patients appropriate care to patients with the launch of who require extra support. dementia. Everyone who meets the Butterfly Staff who have learnt more a patient has an effect on their Scheme, a about the scheme also wear a safety, and educating staff will new initiative blue butterfly badge to identify allow them to offer considerate aimed at themselves to colleagues, and suitable support to patients helping raise patients and their families. with memory impairment. awareness of The launch event was also “The scheme is recommended dementia in attended by Miles Scott, chief by staff at hospitals that have hospitals. executive, and a presentation used it for some time, which The scheme was given by the founder of the indicates that staff find it an Jen Tulloch with the works by affixing scheme, Barbara Hodkinson. extremely useful tool in patient butterfly sticker a blue butterfly Jen Tulloch, clinical nurse care.” sticker to the notes specialist for dementia, said:

Nurse named St George’s Chris Anderson, consultant I actually have the whole clinical lead urologist, used his expert surgical St George’s uro-radiology surgeon helps skills to advise a vet in saving a team to thank, as I for trauma (cover story) give puppy a new 12-week-old puppy named Jess. discussed the puppy’s St George’s Healthcare has leash on life Jess, a Welsh springer spaniel, condition with appointed Heather Jarman, consultant was born with severe kidney colleagues. There was nurse in emergency medicine, as its and urinary tract abnormalities. hearty debate about new clinical director for major trauma. Ian Stroud, the puppy’s vet and the condition with some a friend of Chris Anderson, said excellent contributions Heather is the first nurse in the that Chris, who has specific from the team. As a result country to be the clinical lead experience in minimally invasive this puppy has actually for a major trauma surgery, was the only person he been lucky enough to have centre. Chris Anderson (left) knew who had the experience the expertise we provide to our with vet Ian Stroud to advise him in carrying out the patients on a daily basis!” and puppy Jess keyhole procedure. The procedure, which Chris said: “This situation took place on 28th July, was arose when Ian discussed successful and Jess has made a Quality Account this puppy’s rather complex full recovery. shows high urological problem with me. standards at St George’s Healthcare High standards in a number of clinical areas at St George’s Healthcare, including mortality and infection rates, are demonstrated through the trust’s 2011/12 Quality Account, which published at the end of June. The Quality Account is published annually and looks at information relating to quality at the trust to see where the (Left to right) Nurse of the Year winner Stephanie Sweeney, organisation performs well and Midwife of the Year winner Dianna Fairman-Campbell, Paulina Trunkwalter, Healthcare Healthcare Assistant of the Year runner-up Sarah Brown Assistant of the Year where improvements could be and Mentor of the Year winner Lamis Korimbocus. made. The document is hosted on the trust’s website St George’s Nurse of the Year awards. the last year. www.stgeorges.nhs.uk Nurse of the Year Awards presented include The ‘Auntie Lucy’ award and is also optimised to view Nurse of the Year, Midwife of on mobile devices, such as awards celebrate was also presented at this the Year, Healthcare Assistant ceremony. This nursing iPhones and tablets. To request staff dedication of the Year and Mentor of the education award of up to a hard copy please contact Year. All award nominations International Nurses’ Day £1,000 is named in memory the communications team were put forward by fellow was celebrated at St George’s of former trust employee Lucy on 020 8725 5151.or at trust colleagues for their Healthcare on Friday 11th Kpobie, and presented to an communications@stgeorges. outstanding contribution over May with the trust’s annual individual or team at the trust. nhs.uk 4 the gazette 5

He was also involved in theHe was also very said: “They were Karen Peter also helps Jim out with Healthcare St George’s Jim said: ”It is no use in saying recent appointment of Karen appointment recent specialist, clinical nurse Barrett, learning and disabilities. Peter learninganother patient with a together with Jim disability, lead forBlair and David Flood, on the panel were safeguarding, 60 per cent for the interview. by theof the interview was led thepatients – demonstrating placing invalue that the trust is changing services. I hadgood – when I came in theno idea whether I’d got as role job or not!” Karen’s clinical nurse specialist is to support Jim in the delivery of services to people with learning disabilities; ensuring that people with learning disabilities are safe when using the hospital services, that adult safeguarding followed. are procedures teaching health professionals. teachingJim gives regular sessions to clinicians to explain the importance of understanding and communicating with a person with learning disabilities and Peter talks about his experiences at St George’s. is committed to improving patient experience for people with learning disabilities and in addition to the work of the the trust haspatient groups; learningintroduced disability leads in various departments. The members of staff act as aThe members of staff service for their link resource training awareness provide area, in their settings andfor staff trust learningensure disability to inguidance is adhered practice. They also meet regularly with and make appropriate to the learningreferrals disability 22 currently are team. There the trustlink leads around who meet every six to eight how thingsweeks to explore and to discuss progressing are concerns and solutions. doing your best, youyou are have to succeed in doing what is every time. for a patient required If we get it right for people with learning disabilities it will be very much better for everyone else.”

In addition to being on the Peter said: “I like being on completing it. The passport was designed with the Wandsworth Community Learning Disability in partnership with staff Team hospital and won a the from in Foundation of Nursing Award 2009. for the hospital,patient group Peter is also part of the ‘LD Our Health Our Hospital’ panel. 2010, theSet up in March panel is made up of people with a learning disability as and peoplewell as parents local learningfrom disability services and serves to hold the consultant nurse to account. The panel meets every six to eight weeks to discuss what has been happening within the hospital and how to make They share improvements. comments about experiences that have gone well or not, talk need to knowabout what staff and have influence to make changes happen. the panel and enjoy helping the hospital make important changes to make the patient experience better.” The learning disability group Peter said: “One time I came into hospital with a chest infection and had to stay in overnight. I what medicine they sure wasn’t to me so I refused giving were take it. I asked to see Jim [Blair, consultant nurse in learning disabilities] and he explained everything to me and made me when I told That’s feel better. him that I wanted to be on the because I wantedpatient group to tell them what to do!” within the hospital has been key in implementing various trust which the across projects the hospitalhave improved experience for patients with learning disabilities. One of the is themost significant projects hospital passport. The hospital passport is designed to provide aboutvital information to staff patients with learning disabilities in the event that a patient is unable to communicate their The passport needs effectively. by the patient,is retained whatand he or she controls information is included in it - can also contribute to thecarers passport contents and assist in

Patient perspective Patient

Peter (centred) with Karen Barratt and Jim Blair with Karen Peter (centred) disabilities. with learning staff about people about staff awareness among time to help raise now dedicates his in hospital and not be understood what it is like to knows first hand disabilities, Peter with learning As a patient number of years. the trust for a a patient of and has been lives in Battersea Peter Cranham

FOR PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES WITH LEARNING FOR PEOPLE PATIENT ADVOCATE PATIENT Peter Cranham,Peter Membership matters

Save the St George’s Focus on breast cancer date! community Dr Alexander Ney, senior right or wrong way of doing open day house officer (core trainee) this. Simply look and feel both St George’s community open day will be held on Saturday in general surgery, and breasts, ideally once a month 13th October 2012 from 10.00-15.00hrs. Mr Dibyesh Banerjee, and report any changes you consultant oncoplastic find to your GP. Early detection Co-hosted by St George’s Healthcare and St George’s, University breast surgeon, write about and treatment is essential, of London, the event will be an opportunity for visitors to see the importance of checking particularly when any lumps are the wide range of services offered by the trust, as well as the research and study that staff and students are involved in. for the signs of breast found to be cancerous. It is also cancer, and services offered important for women between Building on the success of the first community open day in by St George’s Healthcare. the ages of 50 and 70 to have 2011, there will also be a chance for visitors to be taken on tours of the trust’s most important, and some less well-known, Being diagnosed with breast a screening mammogram every departments. cancer would be devastating three years, as part of the NHS for anyone. However, before Breast Screening programme. starting to think the worst, it If the changes in your breast Would you like to make learn new skills. Those interested is important to remember that need further investigation, or nine out of ten breast lumps are a difference for people are encouraged to come along if an abnormality is detected to the open event on Tuesday benign, which means they are through routine screening, you affected by cancer? non-cancerous. Most patients 25th September, between 15.30- will be referred to the nearest The Macmillan Information and 17.00pm in the Hyde Park Room are easily reassured after a visit breast clinic. Most breast Support Centre is looking for at St George’s Hospital. It doesn’t to the breast clinic. clinics are able to offer an volunteers to help support cancer matter what your skills, experience It is therefore vital to check your appointment within two weeks patients and their families. This or background are, or whether or breasts regularly. There is no of being referred. could be meeting and greeting not you have had experience of visitors to the centre, stocking up cancer. What happens at the breast clinic? leaflets on the wards, directing and supporting patients attending For more information, please You will be seen by an experienced team of doctors and the Rose Centre or talking to contact Susan Taleghany, voluntary specialist nurses. If a lump is found, a ‘triple assessment’ is patients on the chemotherapy day services manager, on 020 8725 performed, comprised of three diagnostic measures: unit. In return, we will offer you 1452 or susan.taleghany@ • Clinical history check and examination training and the opportunity to stgeorges.nhs.uk. • Imaging with a mammogram (a special x-ray image of both breasts) or an ultrasound scan (an image of the breast tissue Nominate your staff working in the NHS and using sound waves) NHS Heroes nominations can be submitted • If needed, a small needle biopsy is carried out to check for until mid-September. Anyone abnormal cells NHS Heroes is a new working for the NHS who is national award scheme nominated by members of the Using these simple assessment tests, which are usually that recognises the public, patients or colleagues performed in a ‘one-stop clinic’, the specialist team can diagnose efforts of staff whose as going the extra mile in their and if necessary treat your symptoms effectively. expertise, passion for care, concern and everyday kindness touches work will receive a recognition Breast cancer care at St George’s the lives of patients and their certificate. Members can nominate their The breast clinic at St George’s Hospital provides specialist care families in hospital and community St George’s NHS Hero, and find and advice for patients from Wandsworth, Merton, Sutton, services, people whose day-to-day work has changed, enhanced or out more about the awards, on Croydon, Kingston, Richmond and other areas in the region. even saved a life dear to them. the NHS Heroes website The hospital’s oncoplastic breast unit offers the full range of The awards are open to all www.nhsheroes.com modern breast surgery, including using the latest techniques in breast reconstruction and oncology services, supported by highly trained and experienced Macmillan nurses. MEMBERS’ EVENTS Early diagnosis leads to early reassurance and, where Please note that booking is essential for all events. Contact treatment is necessary, it is associated with better 020 8266 6132 or email [email protected] to outcomes and a better chance of recovery. reserve your place. All events, times and venues are subject to confirmation on booking. PATIENT SAFETY MEMBERS’ EVENT. Presented by Yvonne Connolly, head of patient safety, Alison Robertson, chief nurse Save Annual General Meeting 2012 and director of operations and Ros Given-Wilson, medical the The trust’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2012 will director. This event will look at the trust’s key patient safety date! initiatives in relation to the Kane Gorny case. take place on Thursday, 27th September from • Monday 3rd September 18.00-20.00hrs in the Hyde Park Room (next to the 14.00-15.00hrs and 18.30-19.30hrs. Venue TBC Ingredients Restaurant), first floor, Lanesborough Wing. ALCOHOL AWARENESS EVENT. Presented by Adrian Brown, The AGM is your chance to find out more about the work St George’s alcohol and drug liaison team lead. of the trust and our plans for the future. The evening will • Tuesday 23rd October include presentations looking back at 2011/12 and forward to 14.30-15.30hrs and 18.30-19.30hrs. Venue TBC the year ahead.

6 the gazette 7 for

Samantha Ives Sewing room Membership matters Membership demonstrating respect in theirdemonstrating respect The team attitude everyday. nominated by Catherinewere Leak, assistant facilities manager. Catherine said: “this team understated a discreet, provide work andservice. Their hard that thededication makes sure as present of St George’s staff individuals withprofessional clean, suitable and correct uniforms.” The team were nominated The team were won the individual award for herwon the individual award dedication and transformation of the transport service for dischargethe end-of-life care home service. Samantha was nominated by Berit Moback, senior nurse for palliative care. allBerit said: “Samantha treats with utmostpatients and carers that all and ensures respect do the same.ambulance staff Her contribution has also reduced able to as we are stress, staff openly discuss any transport with her.” problems Team went toThe team award team. the sewing room Individual Samantha Ives, service delivery manager. Samantha

Trauma and orthopaedics team Trauma Barbara Peters Nominated for their commitment to constantly their service as wellimprove as their communications with staff the ward each other, and patients. Susan Menzies, principal occupational therapist, said: “Even with the ever changing line up of people of thisthe general approach team has never changed. It is continually patient-centred while still taking into account the well-being of the team members.” Dobinson, mortuary manager, Dobinson, mortuary manager, lucky to really were said: “We get Barbara and she has made ofa big impact on the rest viewings, regarding the staff and lookingtalking to relatives after their needs. Barbara goes beyond the call of duty to give families peace of mind in their time of need.” Team The trauma and orthopaedics therapy team. Individual Barbara Peters, senior mortuary technologist and perinatal lead. Robin In Nominated by clinical Susie George team community neuro Wandsworth team leader Rachel Sibson towho said: “I am proud describe them as exemplary. Every individual in the team trustdemonstrates the core values on a daily basis. I hear comments from regularly and carers patients, relatives, other services commenting on how the WCNT have shown theirgenuine kindness towards patients.” nominating Susie, Lucy Clark, team lead for physiotherapy in outpatients, said: “Susie is kind person in soan incredibly many ways to both her patients and colleagues. By treating each patient holistically rather than just the physical symptoms and always discussing their expectations, she significantly patients’ experiencesimproves and satisfaction. Team Team The Wandsworth teamcommunity neuro (WCNT). Individual Susie George, advanced physio practitioner. They were Annett Blochberger Back office team Annett was

and Alex Stamp. outpatients - Alexis Powell Central Booking Service, The back office team in Team Team

pharmacist. Individual neuro Annett Blochberger,

CHOOSE YOURCHOOSE

LIVING OUR VALUES AWARDS: OUR VALUES LIVING WINNER! vulnerable patients.” contributing to projects forcontributing to projects protocols and enthusiasticallyprotocols developing complex treatment initiative and teamwork in neurology ward, displaying ward, neurology of safe prescribing on our busyof safe prescribing He said: “Annett is the lynchpin neurosciences lead pharmacist.neurosciences to patient care in her role as in her role to patient care professionalism and commitmentprofessionalism demonstrating outstanding consultant neurologist, forconsultant neurologist, nominated by Jeremy Isaacs,nominated by Jeremy Please pop this slip in an envelope and return it to our freepost address (no stamp required): (no stamp required): address Please pop this slip in an envelope and return it to our freepost Trust, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT. NHS Healthcare RSGZ – UJJH – THEB, FT membership office, St George’s Freepost INDIVIDUAL:

My living our values award winners are (please tick one box for your individual winner and one box for your team winner): winners are My living our values award

2011/12 values award winners award values 2011/12 available on the website. Voting closes on 14th September 2012. closes on 14th September available on the website. Voting to vote. More information about each winner is also information to vote. More online to www.stgeorges.nhs.uk winners outlined below. You can either fill out the slip below and return and it to us or go can either fill out the slip below You below. winners outlined Vote for an overall individual and team winner from the trust’s 2011/12 values award 2011/12 values the trust’s from overall individual and team winner for an Vote responsibility.” responsibility.” they have a remarkable sense ofthey have a remarkable they are being paid but becausethey are in at the weekend, not because forever staying late or comingforever from a challenge and they are from never take short-cuts or shy away a team fully committed, they are an outstanding example ofare Doug Treanor. Doug said: “They Doug Treanor. nominated by their manager, nominated by their manager,

TEAM: " Spotlight on...

THE ACUTE The ambulatory care team

MEDICINE UNIT THE TEAM The consultants Nursing leadership (l-r): Emer Cronin, senior sister, Kelly Davies, matron and Kyleigh Nine consultants provide (AMU) Shields, senior sister acute and specialist services across extended hours on The Acute Medicine Unit (AMU) This multi-disciplinary approach contains eight beds that provide the AMU. Specialist areas provides patients with immediate ultimately reduces length-of-stay enhanced monitoring and include: respiratory medicine, access to the specialist emergency in hospital and has shown an treatments for patients who are diabetes and endocrinology, care they need. The service has improvement in patient safety very unwell. infectious diseases, clinical undergone several changes in and satisfaction across the NHS. pharmacology, nephrology recent years; the most recent Since January 2012 the unit has Ambulatory Assessment Area and senior health. being a re-build that completed in seen the average length-of-stay The ambulatory assessment The nursing team January 2012 to create a purpose- reduce by more than 30 per cent. area provides an alternative built unit, known as Richmond Jane says that the key to to admission to hospital for 120 nurses work on the unit AMU. providing an efficient service is patients who are stable enough including two housekeepers. Jane Evans, lead consultant for through effective teamwork. She to be managed as an outpatient. They work incredibly hard acute medicine, said: “The aim said: ”The success of our unit Patients have fast access to under pressure to ensure that patients’ acute care of the AMU is to ensure that is down to the excellent team diagnostics and specialist clinics needs are met and that they patients have access to the right who work here. We adopt a truly from this area. person in the right environment multi-professional approach to all have a positive experience from the start. We aim to provide our patients.” Acute Medicine Clinic on Richmond AMU. They The unit also runs both are currently working to a high-quality service to patients The acute medicine clinic is part undergraduate and postgraduate improve quality by launching with acute medical problems of the ambulatory assessment and work hard to ensure that education programmes for all intentional rounding; this will healthcare professionals. It is a area and focuses on discharging improve patient experience they are managed in the correct patients early if it is appropriate setting and in doing so minimise favoured unit on which to work and build trust, as well and train, with many students so they do not have to be as ensure care is safe and unnecessary admissions to admitted into hospital. Patients hospital.” requesting secondments to the reliable. AMU. The unit was also one from both primary care and The service is led and delivered accident and emergency can Therapies team by a team of consultants who of the first areas to introduce access appointments for this clinic The Social and Therapy work closely with the nursing, simulation-based training for within 24 hours. The consultants Assessment and therapies and pharmacy teams on a multi-disciplinary team in who lead this service are from a Rehabilitation (STAR) the unit. the management of medical variety of specialist backgrounds team comprise of a Patients are assessed on their emergencies. including respiratory medicine, physiotherapist, an arrival to the unit and are given a The AMU consists of 58 beds diabetes and endocrinology, occupational therapist and treatment plan (known as a STAT divided across the four zones. a social worker. They ensure - senior triage, assessment and Each zone has a consultant-led infectious diseases, renal that any rehabilitation treatment – plan) which outlines service: medicine, clinical pharmacology or social care needs are their care. Consultants visit and senior health. This allows identified, planned and patients twice daily and the ward Main ward fast access to specialist opinions met prior to patients’ being rounds are undertaken by a multi- The main ward consists of fifty if they are needed in addition to discharged. disciplinary team of staff including beds divided into bays of five general medicine. a senior nurse, senior pharmacist, to seven, seventeen of which The virtual clinic also forms part Management team are single rooms with en-suite therapies representative and of this service and allows the The unit benefits from a facilities. Each bay has closed the medical team. This ensures team to ensure that GPs are fully general manager, assistant doors which improves patient that patients receive a holistic informed of any outstanding general manager and privacy and dignity. assessment when they are seen investigations which need to assistant service manager which reduces waiting times for take place following discharge, Acute Dependency Unit who are based within the diagnostics (i.e. scans and blood without the patient returning to unit and are therefore closely tests), treatment and therapies. The acute dependency unit hospital. involved with the day-to-day running of the unit. The admin team The unit have a team of ward clerks who support the clinical teams in ensuring the smooth running of the AMU. The team is lead by secretary Sarah Goodby. For any enquiries regarding the unit or the services we provide please contact Sarah Goodby: Sarah.Goodby@ stgeorges.nhs.uk or 020 8266 6092. The AMU team 8 the gazette 9

St John’s infirmary (photo courtesy of Wandsworth infirmary (photo courtesy of St John’s Heritage Service). The new St John’s Therapy Centre (top) and Therapy Centre The new St John’s Past and Present Past Therapy Centre St John’s Therapy St John’s The sleek, award-winning Hill is a far cry located on St John’s Centre infirmary that the original sprawling from in 1840 to complement aopened on the site on the same site.new workhouse Over 40 years after opening, four new buildings three-storey to the added were By the turn infirmary. of the century the workhouse had moved to a new site on nearby Garratt Lane and St Infirmary had John’s a new nurses’ home, and32 general wards for10 isolation wards patients with infectious diseases. was St John’s succeeded as the local general hospital by St James’ Hospital in Balham when it opened in 1911 and the infirmary then forbecame a centre ill. Thethe chronically renamedinfirmary was II, and during the War Hospital by the start of World St John’s war the hospital opened the Battersea Chest Clinic following original TB of Wandsworth’s the bombing of the Borough dispensary. Hospital had 480 beds On joining the NHS in 1948, St John’s sick men and women, TB patients and mentalfor chronically was during the 1970s the hospital observation. However, downgraded and by 1985 all inpatient services had been Day to other hospitals, with just the St John’s transferred operational and providing Hospital and Chest Clinic remaining Wandsworth. across therapy services to people from converted into apartments and the blocks were The old ward which opened in 2000.John Morris House Community Centre, to temporarily relocated were In 2005 services at the centre Garratt Lane for 18 months as work began on developing the the a significant step towards Therapy Centre, existing St John’s within modern of 21st century healthcare state-of-the- provision art settings. is a much larger and more Therapy Centre The new St John’s flexible building allowing patients to access a variety of services is now home to additional therapy The centre under one roof. based atservices, two GP practices and services previously Hospital, including the day hospital, outpatientBolingbroke services, x-ray and ultrasound. Therapy John’s Council decorated St In 2007 Wandsworth of the in recognition Design Award with a Wandsworth Centre positive contribution to the local environment. Page 9 Patient feedback Past and present FAO bereavement bereavement FAO services and chaplaincy I have recently had dealings due to the death of my sister with two of your excellent staff. I cannot thank Teresa Allison and Rob Wall enough. Their kindness and compassion during this sad time were impeccable and the support they gave me and my family was second to none. I do hope there is some sort of recognition as they that goes to staff both deserve a mention. FAO James Hope FAO Ward I would like to thank you for the care I’ve received to treat my coronary heart disease. Everyone was so fantastic. I was always kept well informed and kindly treated from the moment I was diagnosed to the CT scan, angiogram and angioplasty. FAO Vernon Ward Vernon FAO I am so grateful for the care and attention received from everyone at both visits I’ve had by all Ward to Vernon and nurses, the staff particularly Mr Nick operated on who Watkin me. I would also like to thank Kate, Abbi, Rebecca, Sarah, Rey and Jonathan for their kindness. Karen and Mrs Devine Traetto should also be thanked for enabling me to get away on time. at arrivals to Oliver, the to Oliver, at arrivals me.doctor who helped coming around every Staff if I wasfew minutes asking OK was a real comfort.

I was taken by ambulance after to St George’s collapsing at work. During my stay I received excellent treatment, from the nurse FAO accident and accident FAO emergency I wish to compliment all involved in my sister’s staff care. She had learning difficulties, and for the few days she survived, were gentle and staff considerate. Her condition was explained clearly and in detail by the doctor on a number of occasions. When she passed away the nurse in charge was enormously helpful. The quiet efficiency of everybody who worked on the ward was impressive. FAO Atkinson Morley FAO Wing staff I wanted to congratulate you the wonderful staff have who were fantastic, especially Darren Ng, the doctor who performed my operation as well as the nurses. They have been supportive and given great advice throughout the initial phase of my rehabilitation. I would also like to thank Alex and Joelle in the physiotherapy department for enabling me to get the full range of movement back into my hand. All of the staff I have come across at have been St George’s amazing. Every year the trust cares the trust cares Every year than a million for more ofpatients and many thethose patients take time to write and express their thanks. In every edition of the gazette hand clinic and FAO physiotherapy Patient feedback... Patient ofwe publish a selection those letters. Patient safety...

The importance of patient safety: some of our key initiatives

Modern healthcare is increasingly complex and, even with a strong commitment to patient safety, things do still sometimes go wrong. Investigating mistakes is a vital part of understanding where systems and processes can be improved and the findings of reports have helped the trust

to improve patient safety. Here, Oral presentation winners Emma the gazette explores some key Sir Liam Donaldson (right) with poster Evans (middle) and Polly Hughes with presentation winner Daniel Weegmann patient safety initiatives that Sir Liam Donaldson have come out of our work to make improvements: Patient safety week A patient safety members’ event will be held During patient safety week Safety dashboard on Monday 3rd September at 14.00-15.00hrs in June 2012, a conference In 2011 a ‘safety dashboard’ and 18.30-19.30hrs. was held in which Sir Liam Donaldson, chair of the World was launched to coordinate The sessions will look at the trust’s key patient safety Alliance for Patient Safety projects with the greatest initiatives in relation to the Kane Gorny case. Venue TBC. and former chief medical potential to make our patients For more information and to book a place, contact the officer for , gave a key safer. membership office on 020 8266 6132 note presentation. Over 35 or email: [email protected] The dashboard helps staff projects were presented or on identify safety projects across display during the conference, the trust, what plans are in place showcasing the breadth of including the Early Warning Medication safety to improve patient safety and patient safety initiatives currently Score, so that they can awareness how they can be applied in their underway across the trust. areas. It also outlines the lead communicate clearly to each The pharmacy team have The winning poster showed member of staff for each project other about the patient’s health implemented a number how staff nurse Daniel and identifies where issues have needs. The SBAR tool also helps of initiatives to improve Weegmann had incorporated been reported. staff to consider and anticipate medication safety and are patient safety checks on his important information that may working to increase awareness ward and demonstrated how Better observation charts be needed by colleagues in an among clinical staff. A team staff at any level can take the To help our staff clearly record emergency situation. of pharmacists known as the initiative and help make systems their observations of each The chart has been in use ‘medication safety champions’ safer. patient, a new chart, based across our wards since January have visited each ward in the on the national system, is in 2012 and is now being rolled hospital to disseminate key The winning oral presentation use on our wards. Routine out to departments such as medication safety messages, was given by Polly Hughes, observations, such as heart rate, recovery, day surgery and HMP such as checking patient IDs and obstetrics and gynaecology blood pressure and temperature, Wandsworth to help improve ensuring important medicines consultant, and Emma Evans, are recorded on the chart using patient care and safety. are not delayed or missed. consultant anaesthetist, who showed how simulation colour coding and a scoring Deborah Dawson, consultant Importantly, our pharmacy team techniques can be used to system. Clearly recording the nurse in critical care, has led are also focusing efforts to identify areas to reduce risk in patient’s score, known as the on the implementation of the ensure that patients understand critical clinical situations. Sir Early Warning Score, following new chart. She said: “This new their medicines and feel Liam also toured the simulation each observation allows chart has been well received empowered to ask questions. centre, where staff and students staff to identify more easily by all staff; they particularly Patients can expect to be told can expand their knowledge when a patient’s condition like the colour coding. It works about the medication they are and apply clinical skills in a is deteriorating, so they can best in wards where they have taking home with them by a realistic but safe, simulated request a review of the patient really made this process part of member of staff before they clinical environment. or further support at the earliest their daily culture, with regular leave hospital. This includes opportunity. review of frequency, quality of explaining the purpose of Yvonne Connolly, head of The charts also include a observations and ensuring the the medicine they are taking patient safety, said: “We can communication tool known as warning signals are responded and the possible side effects never be complacent that we SBAR (Situation, Background, to.” they need to watch out for. have done enough to keep Assessment, Recommendation). Patients may also receive written our patients safe so it is really The SBAR tool provides a step information in the form of a important to continue to learn by step guide to ensure that patient information leaflet, from things that go wrong and staff gather all the essential medication reminder card or support staff to make things information about a patient, medicines information card. better.” 10 the gazette 11

. www.stgeorges.nhs.uk badge! For more information badge! For more visit Cycles able to, cycling is a If you are to keep fit and we way great cycle parking facilities have free at a number of locations at the hospital. The hospital appears in Local Cycling Guides 10 and copy a free can order 14. You of these guides online at tfl.gov. uk/cycling or by calling 0843 222 1234.

more than two to three units a day Adult men should not regularly drink more than three to four units a day Adult women should not regularly drink recover After an the effects of alcohol the effects the body to 3-4 3-4 2-3 2-3 to refrain from episode of heavy 48 hours to allow drinking alcohol for KNOW YOUR ALCOHOL GUIDELINES KNOW YOUR ALCOHOL GUIDELINES consumptionGovernment recommendations on the of alcohol are as follows: drinking, it is advisable from Blackshaw Road, off the off Blackshaw Road, from or Street, High A24 Tooting the A217 Fountain Road, off Lane. Car parking Garrett startsis pay upon exit and but is £2 per hour, from between 22.00hrs and free car06.00hrs. Concessionary specialparking charges and available under permits are – for certain circumstances relatives instance, bereaved and cancer and some renal information patients. For more please call the number on your appointment letter. Disabled badge holders Blue badge holders can park any of the reserved in for free disabled spaces and any other painted bay in our main public car park or on the hospital’s – please perimeter road to display your remember have limited parking space! hospitals we If you do choose many London to drive, access if you can – like to parking on Try to avoid driving to Try site can be found

By car

staff. Staff in A&E can use a Staff staff. tool, which helpsscreening identify people whose drinking may be putting them at risk of so that theyhealth problems can be given brief advice on healthier lifestyle options. This treatment also helps predict needs for people with alcohol- to coming problems related thatthe hospital for reasons to their related directly are drinking. ”Should a patient not wish to speak to a member of the given a leafletteam, they are which describes the benefit excessive alcoholof reducing and also intake on the body, explains units of alcohol. The leaflet also has contact details for the alcohol liaison team should a patient change their mind.” Bus 493 and G1 enter Bus routes of the hospital. the grounds serve Several other bus routes within a short walk. roads N44Routes 44, 77, 270 and routes stop on Garratt Lane, stop57, 131, 219 and N155 and street, high on Tooting 155, 264 and 280 stop routes Low-floor, on Blackshaw road. buses runwheelchair accessible on all routes.

news on TOP TIP: www.tfl.gov.uk www.tfl.gov.uk public transport before you leave!

to check the latest It’s always a good idea It’s

Top tips Top The sessions will take place at 14.30-15.30hrs and 18.30-19.30hrs. Venue TBC. For more information more TBC. For The sessions will take place at 14.30-15.30hrs and 18.30-19.30hrs. Venue [email protected] and to book a place, contact the membership office on 020 8266 6132 or email: Adrian will be running a members’ event on alcohol awareness on Tuesday 23rd October. October. 23rd on Tuesday Adrian will be running a members’ event on alcohol awareness

Adrian Brown, St George’s St George’s Adrian Brown, alcohol and drug liaison team lead, explains: to research ”According statistics, alcohol consumption appears to be an increasingly major factor in the admission of patients to hospital. In over 1.1 were 2010/11 there tomillion admissions related analcohol consumption where disease, injuryalcohol-related or condition was the primary for admission. This isreason than that has more a figure doubled since 2003. Healthcare ”St George’s alcoholhas a team of three nurse specialists working six days a week to visit and patients and educatereview

What is being done by the trust to tackle the over- consumption of alcohol? All you need to know about... All you need to know per and 40 costs the NHS £2.7 billion every year, harm alcohol related It is estimated that treating alcohol-related. and emergency (A&E) departments in England are cent of all admissions to accident and N44. 264, 270, 280 routes 44, 77, 44, routes hospital by bus are linked to the linked are Tooting station Tooting services from services from National Rail 493 or G1. short ride on bus routes short ride on bus routes entrance on Effort Street, or a Street, entrance on Effort the hospital’s main pedestrian the hospital’s a five to ten minute walk from walk from a five to ten minute station on the Northern Line is Tooting Broadway underground underground Broadway Tooting By tube or rail Tooting... to St George’s Hospital in to St George’s look at the best ways to getlook at the best ways takes aon time. The gazette you get to your appointment reduce stress and ensure that and ensure stress reduce A trouble free journey can help free A trouble Travelling to St George’s Hospital? to St George’s Travelling Fundraising

St George’s baby charity receives £30,000 boost

from Martine McCutcheon Martine and Jack with new mum and Jack McManus Rebecca Williams and her son Jamie St George’s Hospital welcomed actress Martine McCutcheon and her fiancé Jack McManus on Wednesday 23rd May as they presented a £30,000 cheque to the hospital’s neonatal charity, First Touch. As patrons of First Touch, Martine and Jack visited the neonatal unit and spent time talking with parents and staff. The money was won by Martine and Jack as part of their appearance on ITV game show All Star Family Fortunes. (Left to right): For more information about First Touch, Sarah Collins, charity manager, Laura visit www.first-touch.org.uk. De Rooy, neo natal consultant, Martine and Jack Generous surgery gift will Give as you live There’s a new easy way to raise money for St George’s Hospital help St George’s babies Charity – online shopping! St George’s Hospital, London, has received two neonatal Everyclick.com has launched a new way to donate – it’s been laparoscopic instrument sets, which will be the first to be used in christened “Give as you Live”. It means you can search the web, the UK. The sets, which cost over £20,000, were bought by the shop online from your favourite retailers, trade on eBay and raise Baby Isaac Fund, founded by Ian and Cristina Villiers in 2010 as a money for St George’s Hospital Charity. You get great search results legacy for their son Isaac, who was cared for at St George’s in 2009. from Yahoo!, content from leading shopping providers and access The innovative sets are 30 per cent smaller than standard to all eBay auctions. laparoscopy sets, allowing minimally invasive surgery to be carried Every search you make creates a donation for charity. Our special out on newborn patients with abdominal and chest problems. address is www.everyclick.com/giving-to-georges, all searches, Eric Nicholls, senior consultant paediatric surgeon, said: “St shopping and eBay activity made from here will raise money for us. George’s is home to one of the busiest paediatric general surgical Make sure you sign up so you can track your giving – it updates teams in London. As a result of this generous donation, we will be every three minutes, you’ll be amazed how quickly it adds up! able to operate on increasing numbers of newborn babies. Discover the new way to give to St George’s Hospital Charity. “The smaller size of these instruments makes them stronger and Give as you Live. more durable than standard laparoscopy kits, which will help improve patient care.” Deelicious! Deelicious Nazish’s Kitchen, a new bakery / café on Tooting Bec Road, has chosen St George’s Hospital Charity as their Charity of the Year. They sell a range of tasty cupcakes, beautifully decorated cakes and also offer Halal, eggless and gluten free cakes. As a new business owner in the area, Nazish wanted to give something back to the community by supporting her local Charity.

Dance workshops John McFall, Paralympian and former patient, returned to Queen Mary’s in July to celebrate a series of movement and music classes led by Rambert Dance Company for amputee patients. These workshops are part of the nationwide Big Dance 2012, a legacy project inspired by the Olympic and , with funding from the St George’s Hospital Charity arts programme. Big Dance workshops led by Rambert Dance Company continue

Ian Villiers (far left) with wife Cristina and their son Barney, alongside consultant paediatric through August at Queen Mary’s. surgeons Zahid Mukhtar, Bruce Okoye and Eric Nicholls with the new laparoscopy kits 12