Project that improves patient recovery up for national award
A project that’s helped improve the recovery of patients after surgery, has been shortlisted for a national award.
The frailty team at Southend Hospital are in the running for an award in the Health Service Journal (HSJ) Patient Safety Awards, within the category of Improving Care for Older People Initiative of the Year.
Part of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust; the team were nominated for the fantastic care they have given to over 70 patients after their emergency abdominal surgery. It’s been such a success that it is now hoped to expand this service.
Louisa Brown, lead frailty nurse, said: “This is a vulnerable time for our older patients; they may be struggling to do their usual activities, as well as having confusion, low mood and physical health complications. We help to ensure that any concerns are identified and the best treatment is given, keeping in close communication with the patient or their family.”
The new service was first offered to patients during the pandemic. And feedback from them, about their experience with the frailty team, has been excellent. One 91-year-old patient said: “I had no idea how serious my condition was. As a team they were caring, supportive and cheerful - a great booster.”
The award nomination is something the whole team are really proud of. Louisa said: “Just to be shortlisted for an HSJ award is a really big thing for us, so the team are really happy they have been recognised for their outstanding work. But, most of all, it is fantastic that we have been able to make such a difference in the lives of our patients.”
The scheme is also being put forward for the British Geriatrics Society Autumn conference, to share any learning with other healthcare professionals specialising in the care of older patients.
This is the third national award that Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust has been shortlisted for in the last week. It has also been shortlisted for two awards in the Royal College of Nursing Awards.