W care intensive of future the Welcometo floor area is uncluttered. is area floor the as unit the clean to easier much it makes which beds abovethe dants’ ‘penmounted - ceiling from suspended also are unit the in gases medical and equipment monitoring the of All out. or in getting from germs prevents that pressuresystem air tive negative/posi- special a with cubicles isolation two has It to. vulnerable more be can they which infections associated healthcarefrom patients ill seriously protect help to equipped and designed specifically also is unit The in. built monitoring central and equipment care critical est lat- the has and areas staff and rooms counseling room,waiting and family new a houses also unit new airy and light The years. coming overthe beds over20 to expand 16to room with - 14from beds care critical pital’s to hos- the increased initially has and area built purpose one in together facilities the brings unit new The care. specialist of kind this for need growing the meet to facilities old the expand further to unable been had trust The convertedaccommodation. in hospital the of areasthreeacross split been previouslyhave beds care Foundation Trustintensive as NHS WarringtonHospitals Halton and for developmentlong-awaited and major a is It well. as infection of risk preventthe help to designed been also has and patients for port sup- and monitoring in best very the provide to equipment latest the of all has unit careintensive new The areas. Halton and Warringtonthe acrossfrom patients ill critically for caring for capacity hospital’s the increases and beds care 16has unit critical art the of state your Inside local cancer patients cancer local to boost unit Chemo first patients. The The patients. first its to opened has unit careintensive million £6.25 new Hospital’s arrington News and information from Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustFoundation NHS Hospitals Halton Warringtonand from information and News 2 facility on time and under budget. under and time on facility new the deliver to team estates trust’s the with workedhave who Holst Norwest been haveproject the on tors contrac- main The project. the of part as rebuilt and redesigned completely been has occupies it that area the and hospital the WingBurtonwoodof the in located is It 2008. March in unit new Workthe on started now.”for just not future, the for unit a is it means that expand to room the and in built measurescontrol infection and equipment Webest the got have professionals. other and therapists nurses, doctors, of teams our of skills the complements and availablerently cur- practice best very the on based is for.unit time The long a waited we’ve that patients our and hospital the for development major a It’s unit. new “Wethe added, with thrilled are care, critical for matron Clarke, Ellis home.” to closer need they that care of standards high receivethese will ill critically fall who people moremany means that bers num- bed in expansion the with along staff our relativesand their patients, for facility state-of-the-art providesa unit new The demand. the with cope to small too was unit old our because afield, further and region the in units other to patients manytransfer to had “However,havewe hospitals, the at anaesthetist consultant Higgs, Dr said UK,” the in hospitals other most than better consistently are ratessurvivalcare intensive our years, five to four last the “Over time. givenany at need patient on depending changed be can this but unit, new the in type each of beds eight have to is plan The care. critical and care dependency high - careintensive of types two the between flexibly more used be can beds the unit new the on place one in together workingare staff Because up appointment times appointment up speeds scanner CT New hospitals Andy Andy 3 any kind. any of diseases and infections ening life-threat- serious most the or surgery major complex trauma, or accidents major follow monly com- conditions These organs. vital more or two of failure or failure,breathing acute has patient a when needed is care kidney.or liver heart, as such organ vital one of failure acute developing of, risk at are or have, patients when needed is care dependency High know? you did - unit care Intensive for step down care down step for opens Hall Houghton Intensive 5 Matron Ellis Clarke and Dr Andy Higgs in the new unit new the in Higgs Andy Dr and Clarke Ellis Matron at the labs the at scenes the Behind 6 across the hospitals the across cut numbers Infection Spring 2009 Issue 2 Issue 2009 Spring 7 2 yourhospitals Spring 2009 Issue 2 Editor’s welcome Welcome to the second ❝ edition of the Your Hospitals The new unit newsletter from Warrington and Halton Hospitals. is fantastic! This newsletter is sent quarterly to the 6,500 people who have joined the hospitals’ free public membership scheme which you will have either joined on-line, by filling in a form or by meet- ing one of our membership recruiters at a visit to the hospi- tals last year. Overall things may have seemed quiet on the membership front since you joined us but an awful lot has happened behind the scenes. Our first governor elections took place in September, followed by the news that our application to become an Preparing chemotherapy drugs in the new CANtreat unit NHS Foundation Trust was successful on December 1st. Since then the Governors’ Council made up of the people Chemo unit boost to you elected to be governors has begun to meet. I think it is fair to say that we have a group of very passionate and very challenging governors who local cancer patients will bring a great deal of exper- tise to the hospitals. eople with cancer in Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology. Over £100,000 for the £200,000 concerned, and we hope to provide Warrington and Halton The drugs are prepared in advance plus project to redesign the area funds to improve the CANtreat In this issue of Your Hospitals have received a major at Clatterbridge and brought over and bring it into use was raised by Chemotherapy Unit still further we have tried to give you an boost with the opening to Halton for each clinic. The unit local fundraising led by CANtreat. when funds come in.” update on some of the news of the new CANtreat has a large open area with reclining However, the fundraising hasn’t Donations can be made on line at chemotherapyP centre at Halton seats for providing the treatment stopped and the charity wants local and developments from www.justgiving.com/cantreat or General Hospital. Warrington and as well as a comfortable waiting people to keep on giving to help across the two hospitals so by cheque to CANtreat Ltd, PO Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation area, nurses’ station, clinic room, further improvements at the unit. you know more about the serv- Box 805, Warrington WA1 1ZS. Trust provides the service in drug preparation area and even a “We’re very proud to have played ices we provide and how the partnership with Clatterbridge relative’s room. a major part in the funding of this Centre for Oncology NHS trust is performing. It has expanded greatly on the improved service which has been Did you know? Foundation Trust. The unit was number of patients who can be seen much appreciated by the patients Over the coming weeks we There are many types of part funded through CANtreat – a at the hospital. It is linked to the and nurses using the new facility,” will be working with the gover- chemotherapy treatments cancer charity that specialises in Delamere Cancer Centre on the site. said Chris Eyres from CANtreat, using different drugs that are nors to put them in touch with funding improved environments for The hospital has exciting plans to “Our aim is to improve the envi- specially prepared for each you as well as providing other chemotherapy patients in the North turn the old smaller chemotherapy ronment in which patients receive patient. Some patients need a West region. room in the Delamere into a com- their chemotherapy to give them ways to get you more involved simple injection of a drug that Cancer rates In Halton are signifi- plementary therapies suite that will a positive attitude in fighting the in your hospitals. can take a few minutes to cantly higher when compared to be open five days a week and will disease. The unit ticks most of the complete but many chemother- Thanks for your support – the average national rate so local allow patients to receive a range of boxes in this regard and we are apy treatments require infusions services are key. If you’re a male treatments to support their care. delighted with the outcome. Raising please feel free to email me through a drip that can take from Halton you have 17% higher “The new unit is fantastic,” explains £100,000 for the project has been with any ideas for features several hours. chance of dying from cancer when Karen Mason, cancer lead man- a great achievement, thanks to all and information you would like compared to England as a whole. If ager for Warrington and Halton to see from the hospitals and you are female from Halton there is Hospitals, “Patients can come in, see we’ll try and include them in a 31% higher chance. the doctor, have their bloods taken and then receive their treatment in future issues. Around 20 to 30 patients a day comfort. It’s purpose built for their with a range of solid tumour If you have access to the inter- needs, it’s comfortable and it is close cancers such as lung, colorectal, net keep checking www.war- to where they live which means that breast and upper gastro intestinal we can make what can be a very ringtonandhaltonhospitals.nhs. cancers can now receive treatment difficult course of treatment much uk for news and updates from at the hospital. easier for people. It greatly expands across the hospitals. The unit has been designed to the cancer service we can offer local Chris Horner provide a bright and comfortable patients from Runcorn, Widnes and environment for providing the treat- the surrounding areas.” [email protected] ment and means that more Halton Kim Barrow, chemotherapy If you have picked up a copy patients don’t have to travel over to clinical services manager at of Your Hospitals and aren’t Clatterbridge on the Wirral for their Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology, treatment. It will also mean that a member, you can join for said, “This is such an exciting clinics in temporary accommoda- free online at www.warringto- opportunity to work in partnership tion at Warrington Hospital can be with our colleagues to ensure nandhaltonhospitals.nhs.uk moved to the new purpose designed that patients are treated locally to or call us on 01925 662296 unit at Halton. where they live whilst ensuring for a membership form. The CANtreat unit is run by a mix they receive their treatments of nurses and consultants from from chemotherapy experts.” Most patients take a seat whilst their treatment is given Spring 2009 Issue 2 yourhospitals 3 Can you help new mums New CT scanner with breastfeeding support? Hospital looking for ‘breastfeeding peers’ to help encourage, train and share their speeds up experiences with new mums on the wards Local mums who have breast-fed are being asked to share their knowl- edge and experience to help new mothers at Warrington Hospital as part of an innovative volunteer project. Volunteers are being sought who can give up some of their time to come and appointment work with the midwifery team on the wards in the Croft Wing at the hospital and help share their valuable experience and practical first–hand advice with new mums from across Warrington, Halton and the surrounding areas. Breastmilk gives babies all the nutrients they need for the first six months of life and evidence shows that it can help protect them from infection and diseases including ear and gastro infections, diabetes, eczema, asthma and even obesity times problems. It also reduces mothers’ chances of getting certain diseases later in life. Over 3,000 babies a year are born at Warrington Hospital and take up rates for breastfeeding have improved by 5% in less than a year from 56% to 61% of new babies. However, the new approach is aiming to boost rates further and Patients at Halton General Hospital are complements new training that has been put in place for midwives. “There’s a lot of evidence to show that new mums appreciate the experience and benefitting from a new £400,000 CT guidance from other ordinary women who have been through the same experi- ences as them and can help guide them through initiating breastfeeding in a (computerised tomography) scanner. practical way,” said Ann Marie Hatton, lead breastfeeding midwife at Warrington Hospital, “This is a hospital based project that means we can support mums with this peer-group advice in the early stages after birth which is the most important time. Breastfeeding is the best start for babies and the health benefits are clear CT (computerised tomography) scan- Images can also be sent directly to clinicians across but some mums take to breastfeeding straight away whilst for others it can be difficult and they need some extra support, guidance and the chance to chat and ner is a special kind of X-ray machine. the trust for viewing on screen for a fast diagnosis. learn. We hope that this project will help us to do this and give the right kind of Instead of sending out a single X-ray “The scanner is extremely versatile,” explains support that every mum needs.” through your body as with ordinary Stuart Clark, superintendent radiographer at the Previous training is not necessary if you are interested in volunteering as the hos- X-rays, several beams are sent simulta- hospital, “With one patient we can be viewing the pital’s breastfeeding team will be providing basic training. All interested women neouslyA in a narrow beam. tiny structures of the inner ear and then the next will need to have a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check carried out in order The X-rays from the beams are detected after they patient we are able to do a whole body scan. It is to work within the ward areas at the hospital. The hospital will cover travel costs have passed through the body and their strength also four times quicker at scanning and means that for any volunteers. is measured. Beams that have passed through less we can scan an extra 20 plus patients each and The hospital is looking to recruit a range of people from different parts of the dense tissue such as the lungs will be stronger, every week compared to the old scanner.” community who can give up any amount of their time. whereas beams that have passed through denser The new scanner is located in the radiology depart- “Even if it is just an hour or so every other week, it will help us to provide sup- port to new mums that could be invaluable,” explained Ann Marie, “If it helps tissue such as bone will be weaker. A computer can ment at Halton General. It would normally cost another mum give their baby the best start in life then it’s well worth it.” use this information to work out the relative density around £400,000 but the hospital has been able to If you’re interested in volunteering then please contact Ann Marie directly by of the tissues examined, displaying them as a two- purchase it for £275,000 thanks to having had a email at [email protected] or by calling 07798 823850 during working dimensional picture shown on a monitor. Philips scanner previously. hours on Monday – Thursday. The previous scanner at the hospital was a 16 slice scanner – meaning that in one turn of the x-ray Did you know? tube 16 images were taken. The new scanner is a Hospital team asks Philips 64 slice scanner which means it takes 64 During a CT scan the patient lies on a bed, with images and can therefore scan four times quicker the body part under examination placed in the patients to return and provide more detailed images. round tunnel or opening of the scanner. The bed then moves slowly backwards and forwards to The scanner at Halton can be used to diagnose a allow the scanner to take pictures of the body, loaned nebulisers wide variety of medical uses. The scanner is used although it does not touch the patient. The soared. The hospital typically for both Halton and Warrington patients for diag- length of the test depends on the number of pic- Staff at the hospitals are asking local people to help them out gives out around 200 nebulisers nosis of a variety of medical conditions and com- tures and the different angles taken. by returning any unused neb- each year and there are around plements the CT scanner at Warrington Hospital. ulisers that have been loaned 450 of the machines currently out to patients back to the hospital. in the local community – many A nebuliser is a machine that of which are no longer required turns a liquid medication into a as patients have recovered or no fine mist that is inhaled through a longer need the equipment. The mask or mouthpiece. The hospi- Nebulisers typically cost around tal’s Rapid Response Respiratory £80-£100 each. Team need to recover any nebulis- Sarah Furlong, respiratory nurse ers that are no longer being used specialist at the hospital, said, by patients in the community to “Part of our role is to avoid help treat a surge in new patients. patients having to come in to The kit is typically loaned to the hospital or to be able to safely patients who need high doses discharge them from hospital if of medicines direct to the lungs they can handle their own condi- or those that cannot manage tion. A key part of that is provid- traditional inhalers. Nebulisers ing equipment that patients can are used to help in a wide range use at home. However this is of chest and respiratory diseases becoming more difficult as we including chronic obstructive are constantly running out of the pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis nebuliser machines. and some chronic asthma. They “We wish to appeal to anyone can also play a role in treatment who may still have a nebuliser, of lung cancers. no matter how dusty, which they Rates of respiratory disease in the no longer use and can return to local area are much higher than us so we can refurbish them and the national average in England. reissue them.” A key part of the role of the People with nebulisers that are Rapid Response Respiratory Team no longer in use can drop at the hospital is to provide equip- them off at the Rapid Response ment in patient’s homes that can Respiratory Team offices in Block help prevent a respiratory condi- 4 at Halton Hospital which are tion worsening and them then located by the Post Graduate needing a hospital admission. Centre at the rear of the hospital Because of an increase in refer- site. They can also be dropped Stuart Clarke, superintendent radiographer at the hospital, with the new CT scanner. rals to the service recently, the off at Warrington Hospital at the demand for nebulisers has also main information desk. 4 yourhospitals Spring 2009 Issue 2 We’ve achieved Foundation status Meet your hospital governors e announced the results of the elections for the interest of the local community. North Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust’s first ever elected public and staff hospital governors Being a hospital governor is a voluntary role and governors are not for Warrington and Halton General hospitals back in paid for their time although travel expenses are covered. late September. bid to become an NHS Foundation Each public governor represents an area of either Warrington, Halton 16 public governors were elected from across or the surrounding areas and was nominated from, and elected by, Trust was successful and from WWarrington, Halton and the surrounding areas following nominations December 1st 2008 the trust became and a ballot amongst the 6,700 people like you who joined the the people who live in that area who have become members of the hospitals as a member. hospitals. Governors will serve a term of office of either two or three years - so that the entire council does not change at once – with indi- the new Warrington and Halton Five staff governors have also been elected by the hospital staff. The vidual terms decided upon by the results and majorities governors had public and staff governors have formed a new Governors’ Council Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. for the hospitals along with representatives of key partner in their elections. organisations - nine partner governors. The Governors’ Council The hospital is now working with the governors on ways to get the he Independent meet their needs. will ensure that decisions around the hospitals are made in the membership involved in their services. Regulator of NHS “Our hospitals have improved Foundation Trusts beyond all recognition over the – Monitor - author- last two years and this approval ised the hospitals’ to move to Foundation Trust sta- Your Public Governors applicationT following a thorough tus recognises this and gives us assessment of all areas including the platform to further improve Warrington area governors finance, service development, the quality of our services.” Halton area safety, governance and risk over Catherine Beardshaw, chief Lymm, Grappenhall and Thelwall – Latchford East, Latchford West, the last few months. The hos- executive of the trust, said; governors Poulton South – Pamela Heesom pitals were able to demonstrate Peter Cotton “This is fantastic news for the that they are performing well, Peter Cotton, 62, was elected as a Governor Pamela Heesom has worked for both central hospitals and good news for local have met the criteria for becom- Daresbury, Windmill Hill, Norton North, in September 2008. He retired from the role government and local government including people and our staff. We are now ing an NHS Foundation Trust Castlefields – David Warrener of Project Director for Leyland Trucks in posts with the Admiralty, Risley Prison, the Warrington and Halton Hospitals and have robust and sustainable ‘Awaiting profile’ Post Office and environmental health. She NHS Foundation Trust and this 2002 after 35 years in Industry. He was plans for future development. finished her career as an information officer is a very big vote of confidence Term of office – until December 2011 responsible for managing their Business for Warrington Borough Council. Pamela It is the result of a major turna- from the Government and the Strategy and Product Plans, and for Project enjoys meeting with the public and dealing round for the trust which only Independent Regulator in the Beechwood, Mersey, Heath, Grange – Management of Collaborative and New with their questions and feels that these skills two years ago was in financial progress we have made, our Doreen Shotton Product introductions. He has a BSc will support her in representing the interests deficit. Since then the trust future plans and the care Doreen Shotton is widowed with four married chil- Engineering from Imperial College London, of both patients and the hospitals as a gover- has paid off its historic debts, we provide. and significant hands on experience of the nor. Pamela fostered two sons and also has an improved its national rating for dren and twelve grandchildren. Until December 2007 “It’s a badge that shows we preparation of financial, legal, and com- interest in adult literacy. She enjoys sequence quality of services and made she was a Non Executive Director of North Cheshire have met the standards that munication documents for Company Board dancing and walking. major reductions in both wait- Hospitals NHS Trust, chairing the Human Resources have allowed us to earn greater Term of office – until December 2011 ing times and hospital infection and Charitable Funds Committees. Her career Meetings. Since retiring he has become a independence. We will be able numbers which are both now includes Lecturing in Mathematics to Engineers, Magistrate and a trained Advisor for Citizens to develop new services and Bewsey and Whitecross, Fairfield and amongst the lowest in the North Health Service Management and Lay Inspector of Advice. He is married with 3 sons, one who make changes faster than we Howley – Jean Ann Pownall West region. Schools. She has worked voluntarily as a Magistrate, will graduate as a Doctor in 2009. Jean Ann Pownall was born and educated have before and look at the ben- Director/Trustee of four national charities and As an NHS Foundation Trust Term of office – until December 2011 in Warrington and trained as a nurse at efits we can bring to the local Chairman of YMCA National Housing Association. Warrington and Halton hospitals community as a major employer Warrington General Hospital, obtaining her Currently, she is a Director Trustee of Age Concern are now more accountable to in the towns we serve. We want Appleton, Stockton Heath, state registered nurse qualification in 1954. Mid Mersey, Chairman of Halton’s Dignity Champions local people rather than cen- people to be proud of their hos- Hatton, Stretton and Walton – She worked in the community as a district Network and Lay Researcher for Health in Halton tral Government. They have a pitals and our new name reflects nurse, then as a health visitor with involve- Oral History Project with Liverpool University. David Knowles clear commitment to engage our commitment to the two ment in family planning and health educa- David Knowles is a practicing Optometrist with patients, stakeholders and hospital sites we have, working Term of office – until December 2010 tion. A magistrate for 15 years, Jean has currently working as a locum throughout the local community to ensure together to provide the services always had an interest in local issues which their views can be heard when that local people need.” Norton South, Halton Brook, Halton Lea – the area. also include a Resident’s Association, Older developing services. They also He has previously owned and managed Person’s Engagement group, bowling and Did you know? Bob Bryant have more financial responsibility several successful businesses in optics and a U3A. A widow for 13 years, Jean has three and control, along with greater Bob Bryant is a newly elected Governor in Halton children and six grandchildren. As part of the move the trust has hotel. He is married with four children and freedom to develop their services changed its name from North and is proud to serve the local community. Bob is one grandson. Term of office – until December 2011 to local priorities which hospital Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust to the founder and Chair of The Let’s Go Stroke Club, bosses feel will bring benefits to Warrington and Halton Hospitals which is one of the largest stroke clubs in the country. Term of office – until December 2010 Poplars and Hulme, Orford – local people. NHS Foundation Trust. The new He is also a School Governor and an Elected Member Rebecca Kelly Patients, carers and local resi- name was chosen to better rep- of Halton Borough Council. Until recently Bob was Culcheth, Glazebury and Croft, Rebecca Kelly has completed over 500 hours dents have the opportunity to resent the area the two hospitals the Chair of the Patient & Public Involvement in Poulton North – Taha Tayih Al-Naimi of voluntary service in the local community Halton. Bob is married and lives in Runcorn. get involved in their hospitals work across and make it clear Taha Tayih Al-Naimi is a retired professor and over the last two years and has gained knowl- where our trust is located. by becoming members of the Term of office – until December 2011 graduate of Imperial College and has lived in edge of the care of people from young to Foundation Trust and over 6,700 Under NHS guidelines names of Warrington for over five years. He headed elderly with wide-ranging needs and varying disabilities. Rebecca has diabetes (type 1) and members of the public have organisations should be clear and Appleton, Farnworth, Hough Green, Halton two universities with four medical colleges already joined the organisation. descriptive with a reference to regularly uses the trust’s services which has View, Birchfield – VACANT and the Baghdad Central Teaching Hospital The members have elected a the locations of the services they given an understanding of the needs of patients A by election will take place in this constituency. under his jurisdiction. For three years he led Governors’ Council made up of provide. By using both hospital with a long-term chronic illness which she feels local people and staff along with names the trust wants to be clear Term of office – until December 2010 a steering committee of all ten Iraqi medi- will support her aim of improving services as representatives from partner about the hospitals their services cal colleges. His years on the board of the a hospital governor. Rebecca has helped set organisations. They will now play are provided from and that they Broadheath, Ditton, Hale, Kingsway, International Association of Universities and up VOICE – a company for women who have an important role in making key work together as one trust. Riverside – George Skarratts his subsequent position as Secretary general been the victims of domestic violence. decisions affecting the trust and of the Federation of Arab Scientific Research Term of office – until December 2011 Catherine Beardshaw George Skarratts was born in Liverpool in 1938 and membership is open to anyone Councils gave him an insight into worldwide explained, “We asked the public served time as a ship’s electrician. At 18 he joined over the age of 12 who lives in Birchwood, Rixton and Woolston – during the consultation on our the regular army and on return worked for General problems and aspirations. the areas the hospital serves. David King application for their views on motors and took various technical qualifications Term of office – until December 2010 “I am absolutely delighted this and the majority supported David King is retired Managing Director of an including a B-tech in industrial electronics, City and engineering sales company. Aged 71, he has that we have achieved NHS a change of name – as long as Penketh and Cuerdley, Great Guilds certificate in computers and computing includ- lived with his family in Warrington for over Foundation Trust status,” said it didn’t cost too much to ing business applications and a Diploma in indus- Sankey North, Great Sankey South – Allan Massey, chairman of the implement. We’ll make sure that 40 years and in the Locking Stumps area of trial management. George joined GEC in 1983 as trust, “I hope all our staff are it is done in a sensible and cost Lydia Carson Birchwood for over 18 years. Before and in electronics service engineer, rising to the position of incredibly proud. This is a great effective way. Only some key Lydia Carson is married with two children. retirement David worked as an unpaid vol- national Commercial Manager until retiring in 2000. step forward for the hospitals, signs and things like the name She has worked for the local authority, the unteer in numerous charitable organisations George is married with two adult children and one in Warrington and has campaigned for health and will give us greater flexibility on our website have changed NHS and the private sector in her career. She grandson and his hobbies include golf and swimming improvements in Warrington. He has also to respond to the needs of our straight away – other items will now works part time in a local school and is a as well as fundraising for various charities. been a Warrington Magistrate for a number of patients, staff and local communi- be replaced as and when they carer for two family members. ties to deliver services that best need replacing.” Term of office – until December 2010 years. One of David’s main concerns he wants Term of office – until December 2011 to raise as a governor is for the elderly and Spring 2009 Issue 2 yourhospitals 5

Making parking Houghton Hall opens easier at Meet your hospital governors for step down care Warrington Hospital interest of the local community. In the meantime you can pass a message on to any of your governors The trust has opened its new step-down and step-up care facility by emailing [email protected] or by calling the Foundation Trust Warrington Hospital has Being a hospital governor is a voluntary role and governors are not at Houghton Hall in Warrington. It provides first class patient care in office on 01925 664222. issued guidance on patient paid for their time although travel expenses are covered. the community for patients who require further therapy, rehabilitation parking following the opening Each public governor represents an area of either Warrington, Halton Membership office set to open and support following a hospital stay in a move away from traditional of 220 extra spaces on the ways of working. or the surrounding areas and was nominated from, and elected by, A new development in the Warrington Hospital entrance area is a new site in the last few months. the people who live in that area who have become members of the Foundation Trust Membership Office that will be the first point of call Houghton Hall is a former nursing home on Greenwood Crescent, The hospitals invested £1.4 mil- hospitals. Governors will serve a term of office of either two or three for any membership enquiries and also a place that patients can go for Orford that the trust has converted to create a high quality setting for lion in the scheme to improve this new style of care. It is managed by the hospital which has recruit- access for patients and visitors. years - so that the entire council does not change at once – with indi- information, advice and other hospital information. We will be running ed a team of dedicated nursing and support staff who are based at A new deck of parking at the vidual terms decided upon by the results and majorities governors had surveys and advertising future events through the office as well. Houghton Hall. It is run partnership with the Community Services Unit rear of the site has provided an in their elections. The office is set to open in April and is located in the main foyer as of NHS Warrington and Warrington Borough Council social services extra 137 spaces and a further The hospital is now working with the governors on ways to get the you enter the hospital through the main entrance (just past the newsa- department to ensure that patients get all the services they require to 72 spaces have recently been membership involved in their services. gents and cafeteria). Drop in and say hello if you are passing. enable them to return to the community following illness or surgery. provided as a result of the trust It provides 39 beds in total for Warrington patients. 35 of the beds leasing off site parking for staff are for step down care for patients who have completed their acute at the Basford’s site on Guardian care at Warrington Hospital but who require high quality therapy and Street next to the hospital. Your Public Governors rehabilitation before going back home or to community care. Four These new areas are primarily beds will be used for step up care – providing a facility for local GPs being used for staff car parking, to send patients from the community who need some support to help allowing the hospital to move Warrington area governors manage their condition and prevent them from needing a longer acute staff from the main public car hospital stays. parks. This has released the extra car parking spaces for Latchford East, Latchford West, disadvantaged who may need support to get The layout of the facility provides single rooms for all patients. The patients and visitors closer to the Poulton South – Pamela Heesom the medical care and the treatment they need unit has dedicated staffing from a team of a unit manger, two sisters, 17 main hospital buildings. Pamela Heesom has worked for both central and are entitled to. staff nurses, 19 unqualified nursing staff and full housekeeping, cater- ing and domestic support. There is input from consultant physician Dr The main public car parks are in government and local government including Term of office – until December 2010 the following locations: posts with the Admiralty, Risley Prison, the Barton’s team from the hospital and it also has full therapy and social Burtonwood and Winwick, Whittle care support. n The Main car park (on the Post Office and environmental health. She left by the Lovely Lane front finished her career as an information officer House, Westbrook – Chris Kenyon Step down care is becoming a new focus for the NHS with an accept- entrance) – best for access to for Warrington Borough Council. Pamela Chris Kenyon has lived in Westbrook ance that many patients benefit from better integrated care in the com- the main wards, departments enjoys meeting with the public and dealing with his wife Brenda for over twenty years. munity to receive the support they need to make the final recovery and outpatients appointments before going back home or to their place of residence. As well as being with their questions and feels that these skills After making many visits to Warrington n Outside the ophthalmology the right place for patients to complete their recovery, it also allows the will support her in representing the interests centre (in the centre of the Hospital with Brenda’s chronically ill Mother, hospitals to free up hospital beds for emergency and surgical care. of both patients and the hospitals as a gover- the experience has given him an insight into site, at the end of Kendrick Now that the new facility is open, Houghton Hall will be for Warrington nor. Pamela fostered two sons and also has an the working of the Hospital and a desire to Wing) – best for ophthalmolo- residents and the Halton step down wards for Halton patients so that gy appointments and appoint- interest in adult literacy. She enjoys sequence become involved in it’s governance. Chris dancing and walking. patients are closer to home and their families. ments at the MRI centre and retired in 2006 after spending most of my Daresbury Centre Term of office – until December 2011 “This development is really going to benefit local patients,” said Simon working life in management in a very labour Wright, director of operations at Warrington and Halton Hospitals, n Outside the Croft Wing Bewsey and Whitecross, Fairfield and intensive retail service Industry, being respon- “By taking patients out of the hospital and into a bespoke facility like (ground floor underneath sible for customer satisfaction and profitability. Howley – Jean Ann Pownall Houghton Hall we can prepare them for their return home in an envi- the new deck of parking Term of office – until December 2011 ronment that is right for them and the care they need.” at the rear of the site) – Jean Ann Pownall was born and educated best for maternity and in Warrington and trained as a nurse at “This new facility is the result of close partnership working to ensure that our patients get all the coordinated care they need from the hos- women’s services and the Warrington General Hospital, obtaining her pitals and community services,” added Louise Meikle, matron for step Burtonwood Wing. state registered nurse qualification in 1954. Out of area down care who is based at Houghton Hall, “We have recruited a dedi- The hospitals are working to She worked in the community as a district cated team of staff and it’s a real benefit to the portfolio of services we ensure staff use the new facilities nurse, then as a health visitor with involve- provide across Warrington.” and do not park in the public ment in family planning and health educa- governors pay and display areas now that Houghton Hall is located at Greenwood Crescent, Orford, tion. A magistrate for 15 years, Jean has the new capacity is in place. North Mersey – Marjorie Conroy Warrington WA2 0EA. always had an interest in local issues which This is beginning to take greater also include a Resident’s Association, Older Marjorie Conroy has been retired (twice!) effect now. Person’s Engagement group, bowling and but is now employed part time as Town Spaces for disabled car users U3A. A widow for 13 years, Jean has three Centre Chaplain for Mission in the are still located at all the main children and six grandchildren. Economy. Her career has been enjoyable entrances and further plans are and varied starting out as a computer to increase these, as well as add- Term of office – until December 2011 clerk but also working as a sales manager, ing some short stay, drop-off Poplars and Hulme, Orford – psychiatric nurse, office worker, analytic spaces and a taxi rank. “Overall the new spaces have Rebecca Kelly clerk and then managing her own busi- ness for 15 years. She spent three years made a big difference and Rebecca Kelly has completed over 500 hours congestion on the site has eased, as President of the local chamber of of voluntary service in the local community said Mike Atkinson, head of over the last two years and has gained knowl- trade and served in a voluntary role on patient services at the hospitals, edge of the care of people from young to the management board of victim support “Our aim is to make it easier elderly with wide-ranging needs and varying and social services in the St Helen’s area. for patients and visitors to park disabilities. Rebecca has diabetes (type 1) and Marjorie is married to Bill and is mother close to the main buildings regularly uses the trust’s services which has of four grown up children and grand- whilst still ensuring that our staff given an understanding of the needs of patients mother to seven grandchildren. have the spaces they need. with a long-term chronic illness which she feels Term of office – until December 2010 “Because the new decks can will support her aim of improving services as only be accessed by steps we’ve a hospital governor. Rebecca has helped set South Mersey – Janet Walker moved our staff parking there and freed up the main car parks up VOICE – a company for women who have Janet Walker joined the WRAF straight for more visitor and patient been the victims of domestic violence. from school and trained as an aircraft spaces. It’s taken some time for Term of office – until December 2011 mechanic. She then worked for Vickers the new arrangements to bed Armstrong Aircraft and later Peto Scott in and we’ll keep working to Birchwood, Rixton and Woolston – television manufacturers. She later ensure staff don’t park in public David King worked as research lab assistant working spaces but overall the parking David King is retired Managing Director of an on photo-sensitive materials and with her problems we’ve had over the engineering sales company. Aged 71, he has husband ran a family manufacturing and years are easing.” lived with his family in Warrington for over distribution business in Hi-Fi industry. Regular visitors to the hospitals 40 years and in the Locking Stumps area of Janet is lifetime member of the Guide are also being reminded that there is a range of car Birchwood for over 18 years. Before and in Association and is a Guide and Ranger parking concessions available. retirement David worked as an unpaid vol- Guide Leader, a fulfilling a range of other Details can be found on key duties for the Guide Association local- unteer in numerous charitable organisations www.warringtonandhaltonhospi- in Warrington and has campaigned for health ly and regionally. Janet has brought up tals.nhs.uk on the ‘parking at improvements in Warrington. He has also three children and is member of Chester the hospitals’ pages or from been a Warrington Magistrate for a number of Cathedral Council. the Cash Office at Warrington years. One of David’s main concerns he wants Term of office – until December 2010 Houghton Hall provides single rooms for residents whilst they Hospital and the General Office to raise as a governor is for the elderly and complete their rehabilitation. at Halton Hospital. 6 yourhospitals Spring 2009 Issue 2 Minor Injuries Unit at Halton General Hospital Behind the scenes A regular guide to using some of the services at the labs across Warrington and Halton Hospitals. Over 100 Foundation Trust cal equipment used to produce The Minor Injuries Unit at Halton n gynaecological problems members got a rare chance results for diagnosing and treating General is open from 9am to n pregnancy problems to see behind the scenes at disease both in the laboratory and 10pm every day of the week and n drug overdose Warrington Hospital when the on the wards. They also saw the provides treatment for less serious pathology laboratory threw blood bank where all the blood injuries, such as sprains, fractures, n alcohol related problems open its doors to the public needed for the hospital is stored. cuts and grazes to the residents n mental health problems in November. The Microbiology Department of Halton. n health conditions that would As part of National Pathology and infection control team demon- Halton General Hospital has never normally be treated by your GP Week 2008 the hospital gave strated how they identify bacteria had its own full Accident and or hospital. people a chance to learn more including infection causing bugs. Emergency (A&E) department Where is the unit located? about the work that goes on in and many local people go to “We hope that this was a fasci- The Minor Injuries Unit is the laboratories. The labs at the A&E at Warrington Hospital with nating chance for people to see located at Entrance 2 of Halton hospital provide a range of vital minor injuries, when they could General Hospital. This is at the services. They carry out around behind the scenes,” said Alison be treated much more quickly at rear of the hospital site near the 1500 blood tests each and every Davies, consultant pathologist at Halton’s Minor Injuries Unit. main car park areas. day from patients in the hospital the Hospitals, “Almost everyone In A&E departments staff must n By car - If coming via Hospital and people who have a blood who comes into hospital or needs give priority to serious and life- Way by car, turn right as you test at their local GP – processing a diagnosis when they go to their threatening conditions, so if you reach the Brooker Centre before them and providing results GP will need a test of some kind. go there with a minor injury, you the main entrance. Follow this within hours and diagnosing a This was a chance to see the work may have to wait a long time to road and you will see Entrance range of conditions. that goes on to turn that test into a be seen (although Warrington 2 to the left and the unit Visitors got to see all the techni- diagnosis and how we do that.” Hospital does have a minor entrance and reception is just injuries area as well). through the doors. If you live in the Halton area and n By bus - If arriving by bus at your injury is not too serious, the main entrance, keep walking it is usually better for you to through the main hospital go to the Minor Injuries Unit at corridor and then take the stairs Halton General. You do not need or lift down to Entrance 2. Avoid spreading an appointment to visit the unit. The unit is open from 9am to 10 However, the unit is for injuries pm every day of the week. Outside and is not an alternative to going of these hours you should use the to your GP for a minor illness. A&E department at Warrington the ‘winter’ bug The unit is run by a team of highly Hospital for urgent care needs that qualified nurse practitioners who cannot wait until the unit is open. have experience and expertise in What to expect - patient Summer may be around the corner but we’re asking treating minor injuries. The team is advice and information supported by senior medical staff What happens when I get to visitors to the hospitals to consider whether they from A&E at Warrington. the unit? are well enough to visit sick patients in a bid to What conditions can be On arrival at the unit you will be treated at the unit? seen by a trained nurse and your reduce the risk of the spread of common bugs The Minor Injuries Unit can treat a condition will be assessed as to wide variety of problems including: whether your condition can be including Norovirus. n cuts and grazes seen in the unit, If the condition cannot or does not need to be n sprains and strains seen in Minor Injuries you will be Each year up to one million feel unwell. If you, your family following these simple steps. n broken bones (fractures) redirected safely to the appropriate people across the country are or close work colleagues have “What we would like people to n bites and stings health care provider such as a affected by Norovirus (sometimes experienced vomiting and diar- think about is whether they or dentist, your GP or A&E. called “winter vomiting virus”). n infected wounds rhoea in the last 72 hours please anyone close to them such as It is the most common cause of n minor head injuries How long will I have to wait? contact the ward for advice family, friends or colleagues infectious gastroenteritis in before visiting. If you have an n eye problems, such as minor Like major A&E departments, the has had diarrhoea, vomiting or England and Wales and can outpatient appointment but are eye infections, scratches or Minor Injuries Unit has a four hour fever within the last 72 hours. target meaning that the longest affect people of any age. It is unwell, ring and tell us and we something that is stuck in If this is the case then they you should have to wait for your very contagious as it is spread can rearrange it for you. your eye. should avoid visiting the hospital treatment to be complete after from person-to-person and 2. Always wash your hands and use alternative methods of Nurse prescribing services arrival is four hours in total. Most through food and water. It can with soap & hot water and/or use Some of the nurse practitioners are patients are seen much quicker spread quickly in a hospital contact to speak to the patient hygiene hand rub when entering nurse prescribers which enables than in A&E due to the nature of environment if bought in by such as the hospital’s bedside and leaving the ward. them to see and treat patients who injuries. However, on very busy unsuspecting visitors. telephone system. If they really present with some minor illness. days you may have to wait up to Many hospitals and GP practices 3. Do not sit on the patient’s feel they can’t postpone their This can include simple urinary four hours. around the country have reported bed. If you intend to visit your visit they should contact the tract infections in women, skin What else can I expect? a major rise over the last few friend or relative please do not ward for advice prior to coming infections, ear and throat infections Depending on the nature of the months. This winter, Warrington sit on their bed or the patient’s to the hospital.” and emergency contraception. injury you will usually be treated and Halton Hospitals saw a chair. Visitors’ chairs are provided Services for children by the team in a private cubicle. number of cases which led to – please ask the nurse if you Did you know? Children under the age of three You may need to have an x-ray them restricting visiting to some need more. Whilst Norovirus is an in the hospital’s x-ray department can be treated at the Halton wards at times in November and “In Winter, stomach bugs like unpleasant experience, the as well. You will be taken upstairs Minor Injuries Unit – although the December. They are asking visi- Norovirus are very difficult to infection tends to only last for this and then come back down problem should be minor and any tors to be vigilant if they have control because they spread so between 12 and 60 hours and child with serious injury or illness to have your results assessed by not been well and have relatives quickly and easily from person most healthy people will just should be taken to Warrington the team. in hospital as the virus remains in to person and are very com- need to drink plenty of fluids Hospital A&E. There is a separate children’s area the community. mon out in the community,” said and rest up. However, the ill- What conditions cannot be in the unit for caring for infants Staff are asking visitors Kath Holbourn, Director of ness can have a worse effect treated at the unit? with an injury. to the hospital to follow Nursing and Governance at the on patients in hospital by Contacting the department three simple steps in a Conditions that Minor Injury Units hospitals, “Staff have been asked making them weak and dehy- cannot treat include: The department cannot offer bid to reduce the risk to be extra vigilant and ensure drated and interfering with the advice over the phone and if you of spreading the bug n chest pain they properly wash their hands effectiveness of the medicines require advice from a trained among patients: between patients and we are now n respiratory problems nurse by phone you should call they are taking. 1. Do not visit hospital if you asking visitors to help us too by n abdominal pain NHS Direct on 0845 46 47. Spring 2009 Issue 2 yourhospitals 7 Reducing Salt can have real health benefits

n each issue of Your Hospitals the dietitian n Bottled sauces team here at the hospitals aim to give you n Soy sauce some advice on a key topic and for this n Vegetables canned in salt quarter we thought it would be interesting to look at salt and the effect it can have on our n Stock cubes bodies…andI break a few myths about salt at the n Yeast extracts same time. It is also worth noting that sea salt and rock salt Salt? have the same effect on the body as table salt. The north-west has strong links with the salt trade Although low sodium salts are available they don’t as salt has been produced in Cheshire for over help you to change your eating habits. 2000 years. The ending ‘wich’ on a Cheshire place How to reduce salt intake name means that it was once a salt town. Cheshire n Try gradually reducing salt in cooking - your taste is the only place in Britain where salt is still pro- buds will adjust! Also avoid adding salt at the duced on a large scale and it is one of the most table. Taste first; often we add out of habit. common minerals on earth. We cannot survive with- n Watch out for high salt snack foods, such as out salt as many chemical reactions in our bodies crisps and nuts, and processed foods, such as need sodium, one of the two elements that make up ready meals and takeaways. salt (the other is chloride.) n Check labels. Choose those with a lower salt Although salt is essential to the healthy functioning content and buy tinned vegetables without added of our bodies, too much salt can put our health at salt, even better buy fresh. risk. It is a recognised fact that most people in the UK eat too much salt. n Be more aware and control how much salt is in your meals by making more meals from scratch Associated health risks using fresh ingredients. Eating too much salt can raise your blood Cooking Tips Good progress in pressure which can in turn can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is therefore important Use these tips to add flavour to your meals in for you and your family to eat only the recom- other ways. fight against infection mended amount of salt necessary to maintain a Add fresh herbs to pasta, vegetables and meat. healthy body. Add lemon juice to fish Numbers of cases of the infection How much should I eat? Marinade meat and fish to give more flavour. The recommended daily maximum for adults is Pepper can be used liberally Clostridium Difficile have fallen 6grams/day (about one teaspoonful). You may think Use garlic, chillies and ginger in stir fries that by not putting salt on your food you are reduc- dramatically at the hospitals. ing the risk of taking in too much. However, most Use your vegetable water (salt free!) for gravies, of our intake is hidden salt in processed foods like soups, stews and sauces The latest national figures The hospitals have been work- ready meals, baked beans and sauces. It is even in Wine can be added to casseroles and stews published by the Health ing hard on reducing the risk of sweet foods such as biscuits and cakes. In fact 75% Protection Agency showed a 35 C-Diff infection for patients and of the salt we eat comes from processed foods. The A simple low salt Tomato Sauce percent drop in cases of C-diff have seen a trend of lower average daily intake in the UK is over 9 gram/day... for Pasta across the hospitals. There were infection numbers over the last a huge 50% more than it should be. Ingredients: 42 cases in July to September six months. Read the label 1 tablespoon oil 2008 compared to 65 cases in Kath Holbourn, Director of So how do we know how much salt we consume? 1 large onion finely chopped the previous three months (April Nursing and Governance at the Well a good start is to read the information labelling 1-2 cloves garlic finely chopped to June 2008). hospitals, said: on food, where salt is listed as salt or sodium (1g of Pinch of dried herbs e.g. basil or oregano “These figures show a dramatic sodium = 2.5g of salt). Teaspoon of tomato puree (check label for no Overall numbers of the infection added salt versions) are now down to a third of that at decrease in the numbers of C-Diff A little or a lot per 100g? 1x 225g/8oz tin chopped tomatoes the same time the previous year. infections we have seen over the last few months. Our programme A LOT A LITTLE Method: C-Diff is a bacterium that is of work around reducing infec- 1.25g of salt 0.25g of salt 1. Fry the onion and garlic in the oil present naturally in the gut of tions is paying dividends. 0.5g of sodium 0.1g of sodium until softened. around 3 percent of adults and 2. Add a pinch of dried herbs of your choice e.g. 66 percent of children and it “It’s the result of hard work by basil or oregano. Look at some labels in your food cupboards, you does not cause any problems in our staff and new initiatives to 3. Add a teaspoon of tomato puree and stir. may well be surprised. healthy people. However, some improve the care for patients at 4. Pour in tin Foods high in salt antibiotics that are used to treat risk of infection – such as those chopped toma- To help control salt intake the following foods, who have been on long courses toes, stir, and other health conditions can inter- which are particularly high in salt, should be eaten of antibiotics. Our specialist ward leave to simmer fere with the balance of ‘good’ in moderation. These include: for infection control at Warrington for at least bacteria in the gut. When this Hospital has helped prevent the n Bacon 10 minutes. happens, C-Diff bacteria can mul- risk of infection spreading and n Tinned & packet soups 5. Season with tiply and cause symptoms such as leading to better outcomes for n Cheese black pepper. diarrhoea and fever. patients who develop infection. n Crisps & salted nuts As C-Diff infections are commonly We’re also working closely with n Sausages Remember... caused by antibiotics, most cases GPs in the community to reduce n Smoked fish Cutting down on salt is only part of healthy eating. usually happen in a healthcare the unnecessary use of antibiotics n Ham Eating a diet that is high in fruit and vegetables, environment such as a hospital in high risk patients. There’s still high in fibre, low in fat (especially saturated fat) and n Pickles or care home. Most people with work to be done but these low in salt can help to reduce blood pressure, risk an infection make a full recovery. drops in numbers show that n Ready meals of heart disease, risk of stroke and even the risk of However, in rare cases the infec- we’re providing better, safer care n Pizza some types of cancer. tion can be fatal. for our patients.” 8 yourhospitals Spring 2009 Issue 2

Contacting your hospitals – cut out and keep guide

Main trust switchboard – Houghton Hall (step down unit) 01925 635911 Greenwood Crescent, Orford, Warrington WA2 0EA In an emergency Tel - 01925 858970 Warrington Hospital Accident and Emergency Contacting us by email – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. [email protected] is our email address for Halton General Hospital Minor Injuries Unit – general enquiries. We will aim to respond within 9am to 10 pm, 7 days a week. 72 hours or forward your query to the relevant NHS Direct - For health advice and information department who may contact you directly. Please 24 hours a day you can call the national NHS note however that we cannot cancel or amend Direct service on 0845 4647 or view their web- appointments, or provide advice on medical mat- site at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk ters, via email and that you will need to call the Visit www.warringtonandhaltonhospitals.nhs.uk relevant department on your appointment letter for maps, patient and visitor guides and other news and Writing to us or calling us to do this. information on the hospitals. The main addresses and telephone numbers for Please note that our hospital email addresses the hospitals are: have now changed to a standard [email protected] Warrington Hospital Lovely Lane, Warrington WA5 1QG Other useful numbers Tel - 01925 635911 Foundation Trust membership office - If you are Halton General Hospital a member of the Foundation Trust at Warrington Hospital Way, Runcorn WA7 2DA and Halton Hospitals and have any questions Tel - 01928 714567 around your membership, events or want to (outside office hours you can contact Halton contact your governors you can contact us by Hospital via the main Warrington number email at [email protected] or can call 01925 635911) 01925 664222. ✄ ✄

Cooke’s Chemist 76 Albert Road, Widnes. WA8 6JT. Tel: 0151 424 4353 Fax: 0151 424 5658 Your local independent pharmacy at the heart of your community We have a telephone ordering service for repeat prescriptions. We can order your prescription from any GP practice in Widnes and deliver it to your door or we will have it ready for you to collect. This is free of charge and at your convenience. Services available • Order your prescription over the telephone • Minor ailments service. Treatment of • Have your prescription delivered if needed common conditions without prescription • Pharmacist always available for advice • Holiday healthcare and anti-Malaria • Emergency contraception available treatments (morning after pill) To advertise in this Plus many other services. Please ask in store for details publication call Our opening hours are Mon-Fri 9am-6pm our sales team on We do not close for lunch! THERE IS ALWAYS A PHARMACIST AVAILABLE 01909 478822

Every possible care has been taken to ensure that the Warrington and Halton Hospitals information given in this publication is accurate. Whilst the publisher NHS Foundation Trust has not would be grateful to learn of any errors, they cannot accept any vetted the advertisers in this liability over and above the cost of the advertisement for loss there by publication and accepts no liability caused. No reproduction by any method whatsoever of any part for work done or goods supplied of this publication is permitted without written consent of the copyright owners. by any advertiser. Nor does Octagon Design & Marketing Ltd. ©2009 Warrington and Halton Hospitals Britannic Chambers, 8a Carlton Road, Worksop, Notts. NHS Foundation Trust endorse any S80 1PH. Tel: 01909 478822 www.octagon-design.co.uk of the products or services.

Your Hospitals is designed and published by: Octagon Design and Marketing Ltd, Britannic Chambers, 8a Carlton Road, Worksop, Notts S80 1PH. Tel: 01909 478822. www.octagon-design.co.uk