Airedale Hospital unit in line for top award (From Wharfedale Observer)

Airedale Hospital unit in line for top award

2:35pm Thursday 7th February 2013 in News

A hospital department, which supports women in Wharfedale who need urgent gynaecological care or treatment, has been nominated for a national award.

Airedale Hospital’s gynaecology assessment and treatment unit has been nominated for a Lean Healthcare Award in the sustained improvement category for its work to establish a dedicated area where women can be cared for by specialist staff and have easier and quicker access to scans and treatment.

The bespoke area, which is quiet and confidential, was created after staff expressed concerns about women who were at risk of miscarrying being cared for on a general surgical ward.

The unit has reduced the need for women to either stay overnight or go home and come back the next day for their scan, giving them immediate information about their problem.

Treatment can be carried out in the same area and there is also a clinical nurse specialist on the unit to offer expert care and advice.

Head of service improvement at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, Sue Speak, said: “Being nominated for the award has given the staff a real morale boost.

“Although staff knew from the start that what they were doing was right for their patients, it’s great that their determination to see it through to the end and improve the experience for women has been recognised by the judging panel.”