special report on the lean machine uniform fashion
Transcription
special report on the lean machine uniform fashion
NEWS FOR NHS LANARKSHIRE STAFF • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 Centre Pages Page 3 SPECIAL REPORT ON THE LEAN MACHINE UNIFORM FASHION PROTECTED: Dr Barry Vallance, consultant cardiologist and divisional medical director (acute services) receives the swine flu vaccination from Craig Graham, occupational health nurse adviser THE VITAL JAB FRONTLINE NHS Lanarkshire health staff are being urged to take up the H1N1 vaccination. It is strongly recommended that frontline staff get the vaccine to protect themselves, their patients and their family against swine flu. The staff vaccination programme began at the end of October for selected groups of staff, and the majority of frontline health and social care staff will be offered vaccination once the main NHS Lanarkshire ALSO INSIDE Staff urged to take up swine flu vaccination programme starts over the coming weeks. The Lanarkshire staff vaccination programme will be delivered by SALUS and the local occupational health teams will advise managers which staff are to be vaccinated. Managers will then inform staff where and when to go for the vaccine. Local occupational health teams will advise managers which staff are to be vaccinated. Managers will inform staff where and when to go for the vaccine. All NHS Lanarkshire staff are reminded that if they have swine flu symptoms to stay at home and speak to their GP, or NHS 24 if calling out of hours. D r H a r p r e e t Ko h l i , N H S Lanarkshire’s director of public health, said: “All frontline NHS Lanarkshire staff are encouraged to take up the offer of the swine flu vaccination. “These staff are at increased risk of infection, so it is important for them to be vaccinated, not only for their own health, but also to prevent infection being spread to their families and to susceptible patients.” Dr Brian Keighley, chairman of the British Medical Association in Scotland, said: “Vaccination is a decision for every individual. However current evidence suggests that the risk of experiencing a complication as a result of contracting swine flu far outweighs the risk of receiving the vaccine.” TURN TO PAGE 2, NEWS ACROSS THE DIVISIONS • TRAINING UPDATE • YOUR STORIES • YOUR HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE 2 thePulse GENERAL NEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 Cleanliness inspections Contents OPEN: Nicola Sturgeon and Allyson Matthews unveil a new diabetes centre. See page 7 4-9 GENERAL NEWS Events raise awareness of HIV and AIDS; conference celebrates staff; waiting times fall; recognition for breastfeeding scheme; new diabetes centre opens; FAST stroke response; scheme encourages children to get fit. 10-11 SPECIAL REPORT How staff can make an impact on efficiency by transforming processes into ‘Lean’ working. 12-14 LOCAL, DISTRICT, PARTNERSHIP NEWS Driving volunteers; drop-in centres a success; support for carers; oral health DVD launched. 16 PEOPLE NEWS Staff say farewell to work and hello to retirement. 19 TRAINING Essential guide to training dates for your diary. 20 ACHIEVEMENTS Staff and members of the community hit the stage. Editorial policy As the staff newspaper of NHS Lanarkshire, The Pulse aims to celebrate the work and achievements of staff and services. It also shares information about the changes and issues that affect staff at work. We would like to hear your thoughts and suggestions about the kind of stories you would like to see in The Pulse. Contact the team (below) with your stories, comments and ideas. Got a story? If you have any ideas, stories or features you would like to see included, or would just like to tell us what you think of The Pulse, please get in touch with a member of the editorial team... Martin Stirling 01698 245069 Michelle Nobes (Hairmyres) 01355 585325 Christine McNeill (Monklands) 01236 713065 Yvonne Ross (Wishaw General) 01698 366558 The deadline for contributions to the next edition is 27 November. AN independent inspection team is visiting Monklands Hospital on 18 November to scrutinise cleanliness and infection control. The new Healthcare Environment Inspectorate (HEI), which operates independently of the Scottish Government and NHS Boards, will visit Hairmyres on 25 May and Wishaw General on 30 September next year. The team may ask questions of any member of staff or patient as part of the visit and no advance notice is given about which clinical areas will be inspected. HEI audit tools will be used for inspecting public areas, wards and units within hospitals. The inspection team: q May wish to access monitoring reports, policies and procedures within clinical areas q Will interview staff using a standardised questionnaire with supplementary questions specific to the areas being inspected q Will talk to patients. Staff in the ward/unit will be asked to identify patients willing to speak. Consent forms must be signed by patients prior to the discussion q May take photographs of the environment and/or equipment for reporting purposes. No pictures of staff, patients or visitors will be taken q Will provide NHS board/hospital staff with preliminary feedback. Inspections will usually last one day and aim to minimise disruption. NHS Lanarkshire medical director Alison Graham said: “Staff have worked hard to improve cleanliness and reduce healthcare associated infections. “We need to demonstrate this to the HEI inspection team so we can give the public confidence.” All staff should be familiar with NHS Lanarkshire’s hand hygiene and healthcare associated infection (HAI) policies and procedures which can be found on FirstPort. Every acute hospital will receive at least one planned and one unannounced visit over three years, with extra visits as required. The public will be able to contact the inspectorate directly to report concerns. Further information about the visits are available at www.nhshealth quality.org/nhsqis/6710.140.1366.html Experts meet to discuss latest in cancer care CANCER healthcare professionals are up to date with the latest developments in patient care following an event at Wishaw General Hospital. NHS Lanarkshire staff attended a multi-professional education day in September where various experts discussed the current key issues in cancer care. Mhairi Simpson, nurse consultant in cancer care, said: “The event attracted professionals from a wide range of backgrounds. More than 70 attended.” Topics included: q A patient’s perspective of cancer care q Rehabilitation and exercise in cancer care q Cancer in Lanarkshire today and tomorrow q The financial impact of cancer q Nurse-led cancer care. A l a n G o w, M a c m i l l a n community network development co-ordinator, chaired the event. He said: “There is a lot of excellent work being done in cancer care in Lanarkshire. “Events such as this are important to ensure the professionals working in this field are aware of the latest developments and can put these into practice for the benefit of patients. “It also helped raised awareness of both patients’ and carers’ needs and to highlight the importance of the likes of diet and exercise in addition to clinical care.” Pictured above at the event are: John Phelim, lead lung cancer nurse specialist; Mhairi Simpson, nurse consultant cancer care; Lorna MacNicol, lead gastrointestinal cancers clinical nurse specialist; Dr Collette Hawkins, consultant palliative care, County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust; a n d A l a n G o w, M a c m i l l a n community network development co-ordinator. Staff urged to get swine flu jabs % CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Theresa Fyffe, director of Royal College of Nursing Scotland, said: “Vaccination is a simple way for nurses to protect themselves, their families and their patients from swine flu, so employers must ensure that all appropriate staff have the opportunity to receive the vaccination.” Dr Ken Lawton, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners Scotland, said: “I would also encourage all colleagues and front line staff to seriously consider taking the vaccine themselves to ensure that as a workforce, we can provide effective and consistent service should the number of H1N1 cases continue to increase.” Gillian Smith, Royal College of Midwives’ director for Scotland, said: “We encourage all of our members to carefully consider the information regarding vaccination and accept the opportunity to be vaccinated, in order to protect themselves and the mothers and babies they provide care to.” For staff involved in the immuni- sation programme, whether administering or advising, there is an online immunisation education resource ‘Promoting Effective Immunisation Practice’ developed by Health Protection Scotland and NHS Education Scotland. It is available at www.immunisation-elearning.nhs.uk A list of questions and answers for staff about the vaccination programme is available on FirstPort under Swine Flu Information. Further details are at www.scotland.gov.uk/swineflu NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 GENERAL NEWS thePulse 3 IT system is vital tool for safety PATIENT and staff safety has never been higher on the agenda for NHS Lanarkshire. The roll-out of the electronic incident reporting system across NHS Lanarkshire in 2006 has resulted in a better view of what is happening and allows us to put things right a lot quicker. The system we use – Datix – is a global supplier of healthcare risk management software. The system aims to help healthcare organisations build a culture and practice that drives excellence in safety and risk, based on market-leading software, NHS Lanarkshire guidance, skills and healthcare knowledge. In Lanarkshire, we use the incident and adverse event reporting module, the claims module and the complaints module. We are also aiming to have the web-based risk register module available soon. Carol McGhee, corporate risk manager, said: “Since rolling out the web-based incident management system, it has been very well received. The move to electronic recording of incidents allows us to capture more information sooner, leading to quicker investigations and remedial actions.” The move to the electronic capture of incidents has also reduced administration significantly. Carol added: “Datix has made recording far easier. As a result, we now have better information on incidents, trends and investigations that we can share widely across our management teams.” 20-week scan offer to women FROM 1 December, all women in Lanarkshire who book for ante-natal care with a midwife will be offered a 20-week anomaly scan. The second scan will mean that NHS Lanarkshire will offer the 20-week scan as a matter of routine, in line with other Scottish health boards. Lyn Clyde, from NHS Lanarkshire’s women’s services directorate, said: “This is great news for all expectant mums. “We want to encourage them all to take the 20-week scan because, while the vast majority of pregnancies are problem free, complications can arise in others. “The 20-week scan allows us to spot any potential complications and respond to them at the earliest opportunity.” NHS Lanarkshire currently carries out a scan 12 weeks into a woman’s pregnancy with a second at a later stage when there is a clinical need to do so. The business case for a second scan for all women was approved by NHS Lanarkshire earlier this year and additional ultra-sonographers to carry out the scan are expected to be announced soon. NEW UNIFORMS ARE ON PARADE New national uniforms are set to bring comfort to staff and clarity to patients, thanks to better-quality garments with limited designs NHSScotland is introducing a new uniform to give staff the professional identity they deserve. The new kit is for nurses, allied health professionals, and catering, domestic, portering, facilities and estates staff – with varying colours. NHS Lanarkshire is planning to start a phased roll out from January 2009. Across Scotland, there will be a complete changeover to the new uniform by 2012. NHSScotland staff currently wear more than 250 different styles of tunic in excess of 100 colours. This brought confusion to staff, patients and the public. The new uniform will allow patients to identify staff and their role. It will also be more cost effective while providing better-quality garments that are more appropriate to staff needs. Staff, who were asked about the change in a consultation, stated a need and desire for a new uniform and said comfort, simplicity and consistency were key factors. Considerations such as hygiene and comfort were noted during the design phase. The new uniform, designed to be durable and stand up to the rigours of the job, does not have zips or buttons. Dr Kevin Woods, chief executive of NHSScotland, said: “The new dress code will help to refresh the visibility of staff, while presenting a professional corporate image.” Useful info coming to a screen near you PLASMA screens showing key health messages have been installed in three NHS Lanarkshire sites as part of a three-year pilot. Wishaw General, Monklands Hospital and Douglas Street Community Health Clinic were the sites chosen. A total of five screens will show key information such as health promotion videos, waiting times, local news and transport information to the public and staff. NHS Lanarkshire’s head of communications Karon Hamilton said: “The screens will hopefully help promote key health messages to patients and visitors. “Over the course of the three-year trial, the project will be department (A&E) and another will be in the coffee shop. At Monklands Hospital, a screen will be located in the A&E and also in the out patients’ department. There will also be a screen in the waiting area at Douglas Street Community Health Clinic. NHS Lanarkshire received £25,000 from the Scottish Government’s Public Focus and Patient Involvement Fund for the three-year pilot. evaluated, and if successful, further screens could be installed in other NHS Lanarkshire sites.” Two screens will be located at Wishaw General, one in the accident and emergency For further information on the initiative, contact Alison McCutcheon, project officer, communications department on 01698 245299 or email alison.mccutcheon@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk 4 thePulse GENERAL NEWS Monklands is base for HIV centre THE Lanarkshire HIV, AIDS and Hepatitis Centre is based at Monklands Hospital and covers all of Lanarkshire. It offers information, discussion, testing and treatment for HIV, Hepatitis B and C and some sexually transmitted infections. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 The centre takes referrals from any source. For tests, the centre provides a rapid appointment service – usually within 24 hours with results next day, except Fridays. A full support service is available offering both one-to-one and group support. There are four consultant-led treatment clinics and three nurse-led clinics per week for all positive clients. For more information, call 01236 712247 or 01236 712736. DR GREGOR SMITH:“Exciting opportunity” Did you know? SUPPORT: Claire McGuire, Claire Malone, Margaret Stephen, Angela Robb and Margaret Maxwell during Worlds AIDS Day last year at Motherwell Health Centre more than In the UK today living with are 80,000 people ved that one ie el b HIV, but it is with HIV are le p in three peo ource: undiagnosed (s .uk) www.nat.org Projects, services and events across Lanarkshire are helping to raise the awareness of HIV and AIDS in the area and beyond e A PROJECT in Lanarkshire provides care and support for Africans living with HIV and Hepatitis C. The scheme is part of the Waverly Care African Health Project, a voluntary organisation providing care and support for people living with HIV and Hepatitis C in Scotland. It delivers services in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Lanarkshire. The African Health Project was set up in 2003 to meet the support needs of the growing number of Africans living with HIV in Scotland and to help mainstream services to deliver culturally competent services. This includes raising awareness about HIV testing and prevention with the wider community of Africans living in Scotland. In Lanarkshire, the project worker is Nathan Mwesigwa, who has been in post since February 2009. He works with Africans living in Lanarkshire and also alongside local services who are working with Africans. You can contact Nathan at [email protected] Staff asked to support AIDS events ALL staff are invited to wear a red ribbon to show support for World AIDS Day on 1 December. The theme this year is HIV: Reality – presenting real people and their stories to encourage better understanding of HIV. And the Lanarkshire Blood Borne Virus (BBV) and Sexual Health Promotion team is asking for your help to make the day a success. Tr a c y - A n n K i d d , h e a l t h promotion officer, BBV and sexual health team, said: “By dispelling myths and misunderstandings and communicating the facts simply e RAISING awareness of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV in Lanarkshire will be the aim of an event next year. The Hepatitis and HIV Conference: Working Together to halt the spread of Blood Borne Viruses will be held by Lanarkshire BBV Networks on 9 June. and powerfully, the campaign hopes to encourage safer sex and early testing as well as addressing the stigma surrounding HIV.” World AIDS Day has been taking place for more than 20 years and has done much to raise awareness of HIV and AIDS in Scotland. In Lanarkshire, plans for the event include: q Awareness-raising events across many of the community health partnership localities q Flags being flown from local public buildings q Terrence Higgins Trust and volunteers from Landed Peer For more information on local events, contact Tracy-Ann Kidd, health promotion officer, BBV and sexual health team, Law House on 01698 377623. Alternatively, visit www.lanarkshiresexualhealth.org or www.worldaidsday.org Trish Tougher, BBV networks manager, said: “The conference will raise awareness of the prevalence of BBVs in Lanarkshire, their transmission, the high risk groups and include examples of work taking place to prevent their spread. “It will also launch the two BBV Networks in Lanarkshire: the BBV Prevention Network and the BBV Managed Care Network; highlighting new developments to prevent BBV spreading and to support individuals infected and affected by Hepatitis and/or HIV.” Look out for further information on FirstPort and future editions of The Pulse. Education facilitating information stalls in Wishaw General, Monklands and Hairmyres Hospitals on 1 December q All GPs, pharmacists and dentists receiving an information pack q Schools and workplaces being offered the opportunity to promote World AIDS Day. Super trio are stout fellows NHS Lanarkshire netted an impressive hat-trick recently when three of its staff were selected for a Scottish Patient Safety Programme (SPSP) Fellowship course. Dr Gregor Smith, medical director for primary care; Alexa Wall, head of Monklands pharmacy; and Dr Sanjiv Chohan, a Monklands consultant anaesthetist, all won places on the programme that aims to develop and strengthen clinical leadership capability to improve patient safety culture. The trio’s inclusion was all the more impressive given the chosen candidates required the full support of their employing organisation and had to undergo a thorough selection process which included making a personal application. Applicants also had to receive a sponsorship statement from their chief executive and medical or nurse director as well as take part in a structured interview. Gregor said: “It’s an exciting time to be offered a place on the Fellowship programme as the culture of patient safety will be an integral part of NHSScotland’s Quality Strategy. “Much of the focus in the early years of SPSP has been in the hospital setting, but there’s a clear enthusiasm for primary care to become more involved.” He added: “To have access to the level of training and education that the Fellowship provides is a tremendous opportunity that should further strengthen the quality of care that we provide here.” Alexa said: “Building a long-term patient safety culture in NHSScotland will be invaluable for Lanarkshire’s patients.” Sanjiv said: “Having three Fellows in Lanarkshire puts us in a unique situation, and opens up even greater possibilities in the future.” And NHS Lanarkshire’s Patient Safety manager Diane Campbell said: “This is not only a great opportunity for the three individuals involved, it will also have massive positive benefits for NHS Lanarkshire as a whole and ultimately the patients we serve.” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 GENERAL NEWS thePulse 5 Better service with ICP SHARING BEST PRACTICE: from left – Elspeth Brown, practice development facilitator for older adults; June Delaney, ward manager Wester Moffat; Trudi Marshall, practice development practitioner for older adults; and Wendy Drysdale, infant feeding development midwife EVERYONE CAN TAKE A BOW! H E A LT H w o r k e r s i n Lanarkshire can be proud of their achievements – that was the message from the Celebrating Lanarkshire 2009 conference. More than 200 nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, their students and support workers (NMAHPs) attended the event in August. The annual conference, held at the University of the West of Scotland, Hamilton Campus, highlights the successes of these healthcare colleagues and allows them to share good practices. Guest speaker was Jason Leitch, national clinical lead for patient safety and improvement at the Scottish Government. He said: “Celebrating Lanarkshire provides the ideal opportunity to highlight the achievements of NMAHPs over the year and the progress made in improving patient care. “Bringing everyone together helps promote and celebrate CELEBRATION: from left – Paul Wilson, NMAHPs executive director; Jason Leitch; Ken Corsar, NHS Lanarkshire chairman, and Dr Marie Cerinus t h e a r e a s o f exc e l l e n c e , and everyone can learn from each other.” Ken Corsar, NHS Lanarkshire chairman, said: “This event helps reinforce the importance of the work staff are doing in improving patient care.” Presentations, posters, market stalls, speakers and networking are used to emphasise the crucial part all NMAHPs play in ensuring NHS Lanarkshire provides the best possible care. Dr Marie Cerinus, director of NMAHP practice development, said: “The Celebrating Lanarkshire conference gives those the recognition they deserve for all their hard work. “One of the key messages is on good leadership, an important aspect of improving patient care. This is not just at management level, it’s at every level, from students to the board.” The Celebrating Lanarkshire Conference is now in its seventh year. Save cash – switch it off EVEN when we think we switched off our electrics, it could still cost plenty if we leave them on standby. Leaving our computer monitors or printers running overnight each week could potentially cost NHS Lanarkshire tens of thousands of pounds every year. For example, in an office with 12 computers and monitors, three printers and a fax machine, the cost of leaving these items on standby would be £240 for the computers and monitors, £63 for the printers and £6 for the fax machine. This is a total of £309 each year, from the figures based on Energy Saving Trust Studies. Here are some handy hints: q Every night when finished work, shut down your PC and switch off the monitor q Even with the computer shut down, the monitor will still remain on standby. Switching the computer off at the wall will also help as the computer utilises energy even when shut down q Printers, photocopiers and fax machines should be switched off at the wall and all lights should be switched off. e DELEGATES found the conference an invaluable event. Wendy Drysdale, infant feeding development midwife at Wishaw General, said: “Lanarkshire has the second lowest breastfeeding rates in Scotland so we’ve implemented initiatives to address this. “The breastfeeding support team encourages women to breastfeed and provides additional support and advice to help reduce the number who give up. “Celebrating Lanarkshire helped us highlight our work.” Tr u d i M a r s h a l l , p r a c t i c e development practitioner for older adults, said: “We were able to use the day to raise awareness about caring for older people. “When you are focused on your own speciality it’s hard to see the great things that are going on in other areas, but the Celebrating Lanarkshire conference gives you that opportunity and can help us share best practice.” THE work to develop mental health integrated care pathways (ICP) within NHS Lanarkshire has been commended by NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (QIS). All health boards in Scotland have been challenged to improve mental health services through the use of ICPs. A generic pathway is being developed for all people using mental health services and specific pathways are being developed for people with certain mental disorders: dementia; bi-polar disorder; schizophrenia; depression; and borderline personality disorder. ICPs are used to compare planned care with the care actually provided. QIS is working with NHS boards to develop these pathways. It has established an incremental accreditation system, which will support continuous improvement within mental health services. In the first instance, NHS boards must demonstrate they are at ‘Foundation Level’ by showing they have fundamental ICP standards in place. These standards focus on having: q Named leads for different mental health specialities q Stakeholder involvement q Process mapping q Links to local care governance systems q Information management. NHS Lanarkshire’s application for Foundation Level accreditation was accepted at the first sitting of the NHS QIS accreditation panel. A number of events and activities have also taken place as part of NHS Lanarkshire’s Mental Health ICP Steering Group’s continuing work to develop ICPs. These have included carrying out awareness sessions, producing an ICP newsletter and holding a half-day event to get all of the groups working on the ICPs together. Timescales for the next level of accreditation for health boards are due to be issued by winter 2009. For more information, contact Patricia Kent, ICP manager, on 01698 245029 or email patricia. [email protected] For information on the QIS ICP development project visit the toolkit website www.icptoolkit.org Staff sick days reduced STAFF sickness rates within NHS Lanarkshire have shown a remarkable improvement, according to new government figures. Between 2007 and 2008, hours lost dropped by almost 150,000. Lynne Khindria, HR director, said: “These figures are very encouraging and demonstrate the work being done to reduce staff sickness is having a positive effect. “This work involves implementing initiatives to improve our staff’s health and to promote the benefits of leading a healthy lifestyle. The EASY service has also been helpful in supporting managers to assist staff when they are off sick.” The new figures show staff took off sick 975,881 hours in 2008 – down from 1,125,863 in 2007. The EASY Project – Early Access to Support for You – provides fast access to support. It includes occupational health advice and assessment, physiotherapy and psychological counselling, and health and safety advice. Call EASY on 01236 438111 or email: [email protected] 6 thePulse GENERAL NEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 Motherwell in the running to secure UNICEF recognition for breastfeeding Did you know? To be aw e MOTHERWELL is aiming to receive international recognition for its efforts to encourage breastfeeding. The locality, which has already been awarded a Certificate of Commitment from UNICEF, is submitting an entry to receive full UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative accreditation for its commitment to the long-term health of mothers and babies and is also set to become a centre of excellence for breastfeeding. Susan Lyttle, NHS Lanarkshire senior health promotion officer, said: “Breastfeeding gets babies off to a great start. But not every woman finds it easy, so it’s important mothers have plenty of support and advice to overcome any issues. “Working towards full Baby Friendly status will help us to continue to improve the service we offer to families in Motherwell.” Set up in 1992 by UNICEF and the World Health Organisation, the initiative works with health professionals to ensure a high standard of care for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers and babies. Susan added: “There are a number of support groups throughout the area for breastfeeding mums. “They also have access to the Community Mothers Programme, where local women who have breastfed Contact the Community Mothers their own children volunteer their help and expertise to Programme on 01698 377655 to other local mums.” find your nearest support group. Waiting times keep on falling - that’s official NHS Lanarkshire is making great headway to meet the challenging target of reducing the time patients wait for vital treatment to under 18 weeks WAITING times for patients in Lanarkshire are continuing to fall, new Scottish Government figures show. From 1 April to 30 June 2009, all patients admitted for treatment in Lanarkshire – as an inpatient or day case – received their first appointment within 12 weeks of being referred. This is in line with waiting time guarantees set by the Scottish Government. In addition, NHS Lanarkshire is delivering the maximum wait of 12 weeks for outpatients and six weeks for key diagnostics tests. Dr Jane Burns, associate medical director for surgery, theatres and critical care in Lanarkshire, said: “These improvements in waiting times are the result of the hard work of everyone in the clinical teams and the administrative staff who support them.’’ Now NHS Lanarkshire is setting its sights on meeting the next set of targets. These include delivery for all patients of a maximum wait of nine weeks for inpatients and day cases and four weeks for key diagnostic tests by 31 March 2010. Dr Burns continued: “We are committed to reducing waits even further over the next two years to ensure that patients wait no longer than 18 weeks for their whole journey of care. “That means from the time that their GP refers them until they have had not only their outpatient appointment but their treatment as an inpatient or day case patient the total journey does not exceed 18 weeks. “We are committed to ensuring that patients in Lanarkshire receive high quality care in a timely fashion.” The latest figures show NHS Lanarkshire has been able to consistently bring down the waiting times in line with Scottish Government targets. Over an 18-month period, maximum waits for inpatients, day cases and outpatients have been reduced from 18 weeks to 15 weeks to 12 weeks with a commitment to further improvement. ard Friendly sta ed full Baby organisatio tus, healthcare three rigoro ns have to pass us carried out assessments by UNICEF UK staff The Government’s figures also show from April to June 2009, 44.1 per cent of inpatient day case patients in Lanarkshire were seen within three weeks of referral, and 32.6 per cent between three and six weeks. NHS Lanarkshire is continuing to work towards the Scottish Government’s 18 Weeks Referral to Treatment target for patients to be achieved by 2011. The latest government figures are available at www.isdscotland. org/isd/5557.html We are committed to reducing waits even further over the next two years to make sure patients wait no longer than 18 weeks for their whole journey of care” Organ donation group appoints Jim and Susan AN organ donation group established by NHS Lanarkshire aims to help save the lives of people desperately waiting for transplants. A report by the Organ Donation Taskforce recommended health boards set up donation committees and appointed clinical leads for organ donation. Jim Ruddy, consultant in intensive care medicine and anaesthesia from Monklands Hospital, has now been appointed as clinical lead for the NHS Lanarkshire organ donation committee. Also, Susan Hannah has been appointed donor transplant coordinator. The committee will consist of further staff representatives, a member of the trust board of governors and members of the public. Susan said: “The committee will raise the profile of organ and tissue donation within all three of Lanarkshire’s acute hospitals and is committed to ensuring that patients’ end of life choice is respected. “Our ambition is to achieve a 100 per cent identification and referral rate – not just in the intensive care units, but also in the emergency departments and the wards, ensuring that organ and tissue donation becomes a routine part of end of life care.” Susan went on: “Transplants depend entirely on the generosity of donors and their families who are willing to make this life-saving gift.” To find out more, contact Susan on 07590352026 or email [email protected] All potential referrals should be made to the on call donor transplant coordinator on 07659594979. To sign up to the Organ Donor Register visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 23 23. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 GENERAL NEWS NEW £2m DIABETES CENTRE IS OPENED THE Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing Nicola Sturgeon officially opened the new David Matthews Diabetes Centre at Monklands Hospital in September. The £2-million centre brings together all diabetes services, including dietetics and podiatry, under one roof. The building has been named after Dr David Matthews, a leading expert in diabetes, who died last year. The doctor had worked at Monklands for more than 20 years. As well as helping set up the Lanarkshire Diabetes Group, he also developed an IT system for diabetes care that is now used by health boards across Scotland. Ms Sturgeon opened the centre along with Dr Matthews’ wife Allyson who was joined by her children and David’s parents. “It was a privilege to be asked to open this facility. I never got to meet David Matthews, but I’ve heard so much about him and his work,” said Ms Sturgeon. “His commitment to care improvement over the years was second to none and it’s fitting this new centre is named after him. “It’s a modern, fit-for-purpose facility and one I’m sure David would be really proud of. “Speaking to some of the patients has made me realise we’ve come a long way in the last 60 years in the treatment of diabetes and it’s testimony to the work of people such as David Matthews that we’ve come so far.” Allyson Matthews added: “I want to thank the people who made the decision to name this new facility after David. thePulse 7 CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE: The new David Matthews Centre opened by Nicola Sturgeon and Allyson Matthews, below right. Above, Ms Sturgeon presents medals to Alan Revie, 68, who has had Type 1 diabetes for 60 years and George McIntosh, 62, for 56 years “David first became involved with diabetes in Lanarkshire when he was asked to help set up a volunteer group. Naming this new centre after David now means he will always be there with the staff and patients.” There was also a special presentation to two Airdrie patients, Alan Revie and George McIntosh, who received their Diabetes UK medals in recognition of their courage and perseverance in living with diabetes. RCN special day HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Members of the NHS Lanarkshire RCN branch celebrate their big day THE Lanarkshire branch of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has celebrated its 60th anniversary. The branch was set up in August 1948, holding its first AGM in 1949. To commemorate six decades of service in Lanarkshire, the branch held a special AGM in Wishaw General Hospital on 1 September. Theresa Fyffe, director of RCN Scotland, Norman Provan, the assistant director of RCN Scotland, Hugh Sweeney, healthy working lives manager, and Lillian Macer who took over from Hugh as employee director in October, were invited to the celebration. Jan Miller, the Lanarkshire RCN branch secretary, said: “We’re really proud of this achievement. “We also wanted to use the occasion to make special presentations to Ursula Sharma, Mary Jarvie and Moira Campbell in recognition of their hard work. “Likewise, to Jane McCormick, RCN steward and health and safety representative, who retired from the theatre suite at Monklands after 32 years.” For more information on Lanarkshire RCN, call 08457 723148 or email jan.miller@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk 8 thePulse GENERAL NEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 Just take a seat please Minister Avoid a breach on your sites PUBLIC Health Minister Shona Robison visited Hamilton’s new Douglas Street Community Health Clinic in October as part of the NHS Lanarkshire Annual Review. The new facility in Douglas Street brings together a broad range of clinical services under one roof in Hamilton for the first time. The Minister visited the clinic prior to taking part in the annual review session at South Lanarkshire Council HQ on Almada Street. Ms Robison (seated) is surrounded by (from left) senior salaried dentist Philippa Baird, community dental officer Mary Sweeney, dental nurse Natalie Miller, deputy clinical director of salaried primary care dental services Anne Moore and trainee dental nurse Norma Neilson. Our high figure in equalities agenda NHS Lanarkshire is leading the way in Scotland in promoting the equalities agenda, according to new Scottish Government figures. Addressing ethnic inequalities in the health service requires accurate and complete information to help improve services. The latest figures, for the period January to March 2009, show that for Scotland as a whole, the recording of ethnicity remains low. Overall, only 23.7 per cent of inpatient and day case records – and only 14.7 per cent of outpatient records – include a valid ethnic code. e CHILDREN participating in an innovative ‘Fit for Fun’ support programme celebrated their achievements at an award ceremony. Hundreds of primary school children from across Lanarkshire, along with parents or carers, took part in the project over six months to help promote nutrition and exercise issues. Jonathan Cavana, child healthy weight programme manager, said: “We’re all really proud of the children – their attitude, effort and desire to learn about healthy lifestyles was overwhelming. “It’s fantastic to see such a nice group of young people and their However, for NHS Lanarkshire, the figures are exceptional – 80.9 per cent, for inpatient and day case records, and 65 per cent for outpatient records – the highest of all health boards in Scotland. Kenny Small, NHS Lanarkshire’s equalities lead director, said: “Only by recording accurate data on patients’ ethnicity can we monitor the impact of NHS services on different ethnic groups and better understand the different needs of ethnic groups. “Accurate recording of this information is also essential to allow NHS Lanarkshire to make progress on families benefiting from Fit for Fun and making some really strong friendships. Well done to all of them.” To celebrate their success, the children and their families took part in games and activities at Strathclyde Water Park. The children received their certificates – to recognise their commitment to making healthy lifestyle changes – from the staff who delivered the programme. Fit for Fun staff work with children, and their families, and explore benefits of eating a healthy balanced diet and having an active lifestyle. It is organised by NHS Lanarkshire’s Child Healthy Lifestyle Programme. tackling health inequalities, both in the long and short term and support the design and delivery of a service that is needs led.” NHS Lanarkshire has made remarkable progress in improving the recording of people’s ethnicity. For example, for inpatient and day cases recording has risen from only 6.8 per cent for the period April to June 2007 to the 80.9 per cent for January to August 2009. In outpatients the figure has risen from 9.1 per cent to 65 per cent over the same period. Kenny said: “NHS Lanarkshire has worked hard to improve the recording of people’s ethnicity. “Major factors in this improvement include the commitment from senior management to introduce ethnicity monitoring and the training of staff to ask patients about their ethnic group and increasing the understanding of how important collecting this data is. “I’d like to say a big thank you to all the staff involved in collecting this data.” For more information on these figures, visit www.isdscotland.org/ isd/5826.html STAFF are being asked to remember their employment and professional responsibilities when using social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace, Bebo and Twitter. There have been examples of serious breaches of confidentiality and professional and ethical concerns as a result of staff using social networking sites. A new policy has been launched with guidelines for all staff to address this. It includes additional guidance for staff who are subject to professional regulatory rules and standards. The policy states that it is essential that no information is placed on social networking sites that could: q Breach patient confidentiality, trust or ethics q Constitute harassment of an individual or group q Constitute defamation of character q Discredit services provided by NHS Lanarkshire q Discredit NHS Lanarkshire as an employer. Social networking sites are not secure and can be accessed by the general public. It is also important that staff should not use NHS Lanarkshire email addresses or access any social networking sites from work premises or computers. Staff have the responsibility to report any breach in the new policy or inappropriate use of social networking sites to their own line manager. A copy of the Use of Social Networking Sites policy is available on FirstPort under Ratified HR Policies. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 GENERAL NEWS thePulse SAFETY AT WORK IS OUR AIM EVERYONE should be safe in their workplace – that is the aim of NHS Lanarkshire’s occupational and health service SALUS. Owned and operated by NHS Lanarkshire, SALUS provides staff with advice and support on a range of issues which could affect their health. By also providing this expertise to external organisations, SALUS also generates income which helps NHS Lanarkshire continue to provide the best possible patient care. Hugh Sweeney, NHS Lanarkshire’s healthy working lives manager, said: “SALUS is first and foremost NHS Lanarkshire’s occupational and health service and its priority is the wellbeing of all staff. “We can offer help and advice on a wide range of areas including fire safety, minimising falls, preventing and managing violence and aggression, and the moving and handling of patients. “Through the Employee Counselling Service, NHS Lanarkshire staff can also access free and confidential counselling on a wide range of issues.” SALUS aims to: q Provide the highest-quality occupational health and safety services to the NHS and industry q Contribute to improvements in public health by: facilitating access to occupational health and safety services; reducing inequalities in health through research and development and generating income, which supports NHS patient care. NHS Lanarkshire’s occupational and health service has departments in each of the three main hospitals in Lanarkshire and a central department located at Centrum Park, Coatbridge. SALUS also hosts the National Healthy Working Lives Adviceline. This unique ser vice offers employers and employees throughout Scotland access to advice on all aspects of occupational health and safety. Experienced occupational health and health and safety advisers are available to answer questions from businesses throughout the country. The service also offers free workplace visits to any organisation outwith the public sector with fewer than 250 employees. The advice line is 0800 019 22 11. For more information or advice on health and safety or on the other services offered, visit the SALUS page on FirstPort, which can be found within the Corporate Services section. Alternatively, contact SALUS on 01236 438181. How SALUS supports staff THE Healthy Working Lives Award programme is a national project hosted by NHS Health Scotland, in which both external organisations and internal NHS Lanarkshire sites, have signed up for. The Lanarkshire HWL team, based at SALUS, supports employers and employees to develop health promotion and safety themes in the workplace. Organisations who sign up work through three levels of award, from bronze to silver and then gold. Within NHS Lanarkshire 16 sites – both in acute hospital and primary care sites – have signed up for this programme. Of these, 11 have already achieved HWL Award status – five with silver and six with bronze awards – and are already aiming to achieve the next level. The other sites are working closely with their HWL advisers to make the necessary progress and aiming to achieve award status by next February. In brief… you completed e HAVE authoriser training in the new electronic expenses system? If so, then your team should now be using the new eExpenses system and no longer using the old paper forms. The new system brings significant improvements – including being able to show you how much you will be paid as soon as you have entered your claim. It also allows you a longer time to submit your claims. If you are in doubt as to whether you should be using the new system, check whether your manager has completed the authoriser training. e FOUNDATION Year One medics at Wishaw General had the opportunity to receive some expert hand hygiene advice. NHS Lanarkshire hand hygiene co-ordinator Carrie McCulloch delivered a special session at as part of the FY1 training programme. They were also joined by some work experience students. Carrie said: “We cover the same key points as the Doctors Online Training Scheme programme, but I give them a face-to-face opportunity to ask questions.” It is the second year NHS Lanarkshire has had a dedicated hand hygiene training session for FY1 medics. Sessions are also held at Monklands and Hairmyres. All staff are reminded that NHS Lanarkshire’s “Hand Hygiene – Zero Tolerance Approach to Non-Compliance” policy is on FirstPort. e LANARKSHIRE’S Low-Vision Project took part in the teambuilding activity Spymasters in which teams pretended to be spies and complete as many tasks in the shortest time. The Lanarkshire team won and were presented with the annual trophy. The Low-Vision Project brings together health, education, community optometrists, social services and the voluntary sector to help adults and children affected by sight loss. Spymasters was organised by Visibility, a local charity providing services for the visually impaired throughout the West of Scotland. RAYMOND FAIRHURST: The alertness of his brother’s girlfriend helped him to get quick treatment FAST action that saved Raymond NHS Lanarkshire’s Stroke Managed Clinical Network is urging people in Lanarkshire to think FAST (Face Arm Speech Time to call 999). Throug hout November, in partnership with Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland, the network has been working with the public, support groups, organisations and businesses to promote the message that a stroke is a medical emergency and people should think FAST and call 999. More than 1000 people in Lanarkshire have a stroke every year and it is essential people recognise one when it is happening. Calling 999 means victims will reach hospital quickly and get early acute assessment and treatment, such as thrombolysis, which can prevent further damage to the brain. Early referral can also be made to the Acute Stroke Unit which is known to reduce death and disability. Strokes are the third biggest killer in Britain after heart disease and cancer, claiming the lives of one in eight women and one in 10 men. It leaves hundreds of thousands more with some form of permanent disability. However, contrary to popular myth, a stroke is not something that only happens to older people. About a quarter occur in the under 65s. Take Raymond Fairhurst, a fit and healthy 35-year-old. He suffered a stroke at the end of August. Raymond, who works as a roofer, said: “I was preparing to help lift a new settee delivered to my mother’s with my brother, when I began to feel really disorientated. “I tried to tell my brother, but couldn’t say the words. “I then stumbled. My brother’s girlfriend knew what was happening and called 999.” This quick thinking resulted in Raymond being rushed to Wishaw General Hospital. He has made a full recovery with no side effects. Ca m p b el l C h a l m e r s , N H S Lanarkshire stroke nurse consultant, said: “This is exactly what the FAST campaign is designed to do – make people react as quickly as possible. “Rapid treatment can make a huge difference to the odds of surviving or being left with longterm disability. For more information or a campaign pack, contact the Stroke Managed Clinical Network on 01236 707724 or visit Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland at www.chss.org.uk THE FAST TEST The FAST (Face Arm Speech Time to Call 999) test can be used to recognise a stroke. FAST requires an assessment of three specific symptoms of stroke: q F stands for FACE. Can the person smile normally? Does their mouth droop? q A is for ARM. Can they lift both arms normally? q S is for SPEECH. Can they speak clearly? q T is for TIME. Time to call 999 if any of these signs are present. Remember – think FAST and save a life! 9 10 thePulse SPECIAL REPORT e NHS Lanarkshire’s three- year Lean Transformation Programme will see the development of Lean Leaders. These individuals will play an integral part in the development process and the first three Lean Leaders have been selected. They are: Veronica Devlin, programme manager, NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 emergency access programme; Carol-Ann Jamieson, senior nurse, emergency and medical division; and Lynn Sampson, senior charge nurse, surgical division. More information on the Lean Leader role can be found on the Lean section on FirstPort. SPECIAL REPORT thePulse 11 Staff show that their efforts to spot ‘Lean’ improvements are delivering big results in efficiency... Questions & answers It soon became clear that the favourite word of the Lean team was ‘why’ e What is Lean? Lean was introduced in NHS Lanarkshire in July 2008, and its overall aim is to identify and implement ways in which we can improve the patient journey, efficiency and safety throughout the whole healthcare system and provide a better environment for both patients and staff. e How does it work? Veronica Devlin Proactive not reactive Staff are encouraged to generate improvement ideas that are tested out during a rapid improvement event within their work environment. These are followed through to ensure they are sustainable. Joyce Higgins, Monklands pharmacy distribution manager, gives a personal account of what the Lean process meant for her… e Does it lead to improvements? A range of projects have been successfully implemented in NHS Lanarkshire, eg: the Organised Ward initiative at Monklands, pharmacy redesign at Wishaw and Monklands, and the theatres projects in our three acute hospitals. e Does it work for staff? WORKING TOGETHER: Alexa Wall, far right, with the team at Monklands Pharmacy Department Staff involved in the process have been really enthusiastic about it, and both they and patients are already seeing the benefits from the changes made in their relevant departments. For more information, visit the Lean section on FirstPort. Carol-Ann Jamieson “I ADMIT it was with a degree of apprehension that I learned my department was to undergo Lean. “For me, Lean began when I had to make a list of duties that corresponded to ‘a day in the life of an indent’. “I had to ask myself ‘who writes an indent, who receives it, who decides if it’s correct, what do we do if it’s not correct’. “Having to ask these questions before we took a drug from a shelf was a huge eye-opener. In the past we just did things automatically without examining the processes involved. “This made me look at it in a whole new light. Getting all the staff on board was also a challenge as some were uncomfortable with Lean, interpreting it THE LEAN MACHINE Lynn Sampson MONKLANDS Pharmacy Department underwent a Lean process during May and June this year. Its aim was to: q Review current processes within pharmacy to improve patient care and increase patient safety q Open up dialogue with wards regarding pharmacy distribution processes q Engage wards in a team approach to improvement steps pre and post-Kaizen q Develop a joint approach to increase quality of indents and eradicate duplicate indents/orders from wards q Work together to embed and sustain improvements. An all-embracing approach was adopted to deliver this, and looked at every aspect of the medicines supply process to allow any improvements to be effective and sustainable. As such, staff and the Lean team looked at issues around missed drug doses, stock cupboards, the stock and non-stock top-up processes, the drugs return process, delivery of medicines and induction and education. They also looked at workflow redesign, indent planning and daily planning of roles and responsibilities within pharmacy. One of the areas where Lean had a massive positive impact was the pharmacy distribution area. Prior to Lean, the distribution team admitted it was finding it difficult to achieve its day-to-day requirements of supplying the hospital with medications. This was due to a variety of issues including a vast workload and staffing issues – concer ns that most departments will identify with. Alexa Wall, head of pharmacy at Monklands, said: “The Change and Innovation team helped us to identify several processes that were slowing us down. This included the layout of the goods inward area and the number of interruptions we received for non-urgent items – and we made impressive improvements. “However, the biggest improvement and the most radical change was around the turnaround time of medicines. “Before Lean, we had never analysed how long items were taking to be processed and returned to wards. “After a spot check, we were shocked to find that only 38 per cent of non-urgent items were received back in the wards within two hours. “The changes we instigated have resulted in the new system consistently achieving figures of 80-100 per cent. The process certainly wasn’t straightforward as we had many action points required to achieve these improvements. “But, by allocating small changes in responsibilities, and working together as a team, we have improved the efficiency of the department and increased morale.” as an attempt to ‘lean’ down on staff or services. “Some staff even asked me would someone be made redundant or would we get more staff. When the Lean team eventually came in, we learned neither of these would be true. “We were immediately intrigued when the Lean team said we’d be the ones changing and challenging our own standards and processes. “Once we started, it soon became clear the favourite word of the Lean team was ‘why’. They asked ‘why that way’, or ‘why is that so’? “It also became clear that we had some of our own phrases such as ‘because’, ‘it depends’ or ‘that’s the way we’ve always worked’ which were all used. “However, as we responded to questions from those outwith pharmacy, we began to question and assess our methods. “We realised we’d concentrated on making the current system work and lost sight of the possibilities for improvement. “When we started challenging ourselves, we concluded that new inventive ways of working were needed. It was at that point that our own staff became the leaders of the project. “Everyone had ideas and we became proactive instead of reactive and tried to work smarter not harder. “A few changes weren’t as good as they seemed on paper and had to be abandoned, but some were a perfect fit and have streamlined our processes enormously. “This has resulted in staff becoming m o r e e n t h u s i a s t i c a n d m o ra l e has increased as there’s ownership of the changes. “The big question now is ‘Can we sustain this’? I hope the answer is yes. “The Lean ethos is ‘change is constant’ and we will have to learn to keep questioning ourselves and react to the changes around us. “My initial apprehension has proven to be completely unfounded.” 12 thePulse LOCAL/DISTRICT/PARTNERSHIP NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 New Dalziel drop-in centres prove a real success SHOWING THE WAY: from left – Lara Calder, NHS Lanarkshire health improvement team leader; Yvonne O’Donnell, of Tesco; Louise James, breastfeeding development worker with her baby Gethin; and Tracy Henderson, health promotion assistant Three cheers for mums’ champions ORGANISATIONS in Rutherglen and Cambuslang are backing NHS Lanarkshire’s drive to boost breastfeeding rates. Tesco in Rutherglen was the latest to receive a certificate from the local health board in recognition of the support it gives feeding mums. Tr a c y H e n d e r s o n , h e a l t h promotion assistant with NHS Lanarkshire, explained the aims of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Campaign. She said: “This initiative aims to increase the number of premises in the Cambuslang and Rutherglen locality that welcome women who want to breastfeed in public places.” Under the Breastfeeding etc (Scotland) Act 2005 it is an offence to prevent or stop a child being fed milk in a public place. Tracy added: “Breastfeeding rates in Cambuslang/Rutherglen locality are low and this campaign aims to encourage more mums to breastfeed.” Tesco received a window sticker and certificate from the Lanarkshire Breastfeeding Initiative. The superstore, and the other breastfeeding-friendly organisations, help mums by encouraging their staff to be welcoming to those who want to breastfeed. Their staff will support mums who wish to breastfeed by ensuring they are not disturbed and make them comfortably by bringing them a chair or glass of water. For more information, email tracy.henderson@lanarkshire. scot.nhs.uk or visit www.nhslanarkshire. org.uk/services/breastfeeding DRIVE TO BOOST CAR VOLUNTEERS A VOLUNTEER car scheme – which helps people in Cambuslang and Rutherglen access health services – is looking for your help. The CamGlen NHS Volunteer Car Sharing Project provides a free door-to-door service for people with NHS appointments who do not have a car and find it difficult to use public transport. Funded by NHS Lanarkshire’s Cambuslang and Rutherglen locality and run by the local Council for Voluntary Services (CREATE) – the scheme is a hit with all concerned. Jean Gillan, of Whitlawburn, Cambuslang, has been using the service for several years to travel to doctor and hospital appointments. The 71-year-old said: “It’s a great service and the drivers are always very pleasant. “They pick me up at my door, take me to my appointment and drive me home again. I don’t YOUR CAR, MADAM: Robert Wray drives Jean Gillan to an appointment know what I’d do without them.” Volunteer driver Robert Wray, from Rutherglen, said: “Everybody should give something back to their community, but at the same time this is something I enjoy doing. “It makes you feel good to know you are helping someone.” While the project, which is for people living in the G73 and G72 postcode areas, is proving to be a great success, more drivers are needed to meet demand. Ken Nicholson, a CREATE volunteer and one of the founders of the car sharing group, said: “The people we’re helping include those who are isolated, disabled and elderly, and especially those who may not have family members with cars and struggle to access public transport. “The more volunteer drivers we have, the more people we can help, so I would encourage anyone interested to contact us.” Jean Feenie, a CREATE volunteer, said: “I schedule the trips and usually book drivers at least a week in advance “If you have some free time and access to a car, you can make a big difference to the lives of local people in your community.” People who use the service are referred to CREATE by NHS staff and the drivers can take them to various appointments, including GP, hospital or dentist. To find out more, contact Jean Feenie at CREATE on 0141 641 8884. PEOPLE in Lanarkshire with multiple sclerosis or respiratory and heart problems will benefit from two new drop-in centres. Both new services will be based at the Dalziel Centre, Strathclyde Hospital in Motherwell. The Multiple Sclerosis Drop-in Centre was launched in October and will be held every second Friday. In early November, a second dropin centre, for people with respiratory and heart problems, was launched. Carol Murphy, team leader of the Dalziel Centre, said: “The drop-ins are proving very popular and we’ve had some very positive feedback from the people attending. “People can meet others who share similar experiences but there are also complementary therapies on offer, counselling sessions and acupuncture, which can be used for pain relief, relaxation and promotion of general wellbeing. “We can also do one-to-one consultations with people.” Both drop-in centres, which run on alternate Fridays, will open at 10am. The Dalziel Centre is for patients, carers and families in Lanarkshire who are affected by a cancer diagnosis or life-limiting illness. To contact the centre, call 01698 245026/76. Provost praises new care service WISHAW and Shotts Integrated Day Services for older adults which provides health and social care services in North Lanarkshire has been officially opened. The service is run jointly by North Lanarkshire Council and NHS Lanarkshire and is located at Stewarton Day Centre, Wishaw. North Lanarkshire’s Provost Tom Curley took part in a special opening to mark the new day services. He said: “This is the third such centre to open in North Lanarkshire. The older people who use them find it easier as they receive the care they need at the one location.” This combined approach to day services is to provide the best possible support, treatment and care to older adults who experience difficulties in daily living. Wishaw and Shotts day services provide places for up to 28 people each day. Services provided include group therapy, flexible support for carers, rehabilitation and assessment. Colin Sloey, NHS Lanarkshire’s Director of North Lanarkshire Community Health Partnerships, said: “The combined social and health care provided at our Integrated Day Centres has proved highly successful.” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 LOCAL/DISTRICT/PARTNERSHIP A NEW edition of the Home from Hospital Carers’ pack has now been delivered to all hospitals. This pack should be supplied to family or friends of any patient in hospital – especially those with complex needs. The Home from Hospital Carer’s pack contains information to help carers such as: q What a carer can and should expect to happen when a person is discharged from hospital q Services which can support a carer and the person they care for q Contact points where a carer can get more detailed information and further support q Encourages and reminds carers to contact their own surgery and place themselves on the GP carers’ register and to inform carers who to contact if requiring a carer’s assessment. thePulse 13 LEFT: Carer co-ordinators Elaine Harrow and Elizabeth MacDonald help to promote the hospital carers’ pack at an information stall in Wishaw Carers need YOU! Team is key to the strategy CONNECTED: The Lanarkshire Carers Support Team is developing links between hospitals, GP surgeries and primary care services to avoid carers slipping through the net LANARKSHIRE NHS Board approved the Carers Information Strategy in March 2007. This strategy, together with an action plan, was approved by the Scottish Government in November 2008. There has been significant investment by the government to assist carers within our communities and NHS Lanarkshire’s Carers Information Strategy has received funding of £970,000 over three years (2008/092010/11). The Lanarkshire Carers Information Strategy Group, comprising partners from local carers organisations, local authorities and NHS Lanarkshire, has responsibility for ensuring that the outcomes within the action plan are achieved. Key to this has been the appointment of the Lanarkshire Carers Support Team. CARERS are vital partners in Lanarkshire healthcare – but they need your help. The Lanarkshire Carers Support Team was established by NHS Lanarkshire last year. Its aims include: q Raising awareness of carers q Providing carers with information q Helping to identify hidden carers q Referring carers to relevant support groups q Developing good links between hospitals, GP surgeries and primary care services to avoid carers slipping through the net. However, the team members need the help of their NHS Lanarkshire colleagues to identify carers so they can offer them the support they require. Eileen Clarke, senior nurse for Womens, Children’s Cancer and Diagnostic Division, manages the carers support team. She said: “Carers are our partners in care and the work they do, all of which is unpaid, cannot be underestimated. Many of them don’t consider themselves as carers, such as the wife, husband, son or daughter who are looking after a loved one. “Carers can be any age and you can have children at school who are looking after their parents or siblings. “By identifying carers, we can then make sure the support mechanisms are in place to support them in looking after their loved ones.” The team has a carers’ co-ordinator at each of the three acute hospitals: Elizabeth MacDonald at Wishaw General, Lesley Callan at Monklands and Elaine Harrow at Hairmyres. In the community, Marion McParland is carer co-ordinator for primary care in the north, while Linda Craig, a carer development officer employed by South Lanarkshire Carers Network, covers the south. Elizabeth explained how the carers support team work in the hospital environment. She said: “Our role is to assess and meet the needs of family, friends and carers while a patient is in hospital to ensure they have the necessary skills and access to support following the person’s discharge. “We support carers in the planning of patients’ care and discharge, advise them of carer organisations in the community, and carry out follow-up calls to carers after patients have been discharged. “ We also carr y out carer awareness sessions to NHS Lanarkshire staff in all three hospitals and promote the Home from Hospital pack.” Marion, a public health team leader who has worked for the NHS in Lanarkshire for 33 years, outlined her and Linda’s role in the community. She said: “In primary care, Linda and I are assisting GP practices to identify carers and develop their GP practice carers’ register and Contacts for carers IF YOU wish to discuss a carer issue, or are looking for more information on the support available for carers, the contacts are: q Hairmyres elaine.harrow@lanarkshire. scot.nhs.uk or 01355 585522 q Monklands lesley.callan@lanarkshire. scot.nhs.uk or 01236 748748 q Wishaw elizabeth.macdonald@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk or 01698 361100 signpost to appropriate agencies. “Some practices are providing flu jab sessions for carers and annual carer health checks. “Many carers may neglect their own health as their main focus is q North Community Health Partnership (CHP), North Lanarkshire Carers Together marion.mcparland@lanarkshire .scot.nhs.uk or 01698 245254 or 07788 646295 q South CHP, South Lanarkshire Carers Network Linda Craig, [email protected] or 01698 285163. the cared for. The register will help us identify carers, including the hidden ones who don’t recognise themselves as carers, and offer them support and information.” 14 thePulse LOCAL/DISTRICT/PARTNERSHIP £1600 – we’ll drink to that THE psychiatric wards in Hairmyres Hospital raised a fantastic £1600 when they took part in the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning. Held in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, the event was organised by Carol Park, manager of ward 19. She said: “A lot of the staff have been affected by cancer either directly or through a family member, and many of them were supported by Macmillan. “All the staff and the patients got behind our fundraising event. They really enjoyed taking part and it was a fantastic feeling when we realised how much we had raised. “I’d like to say a special thank you to Carron Beattie and Lynne Dunsmuir who put in a huge amount of work.” Money was also raised from the sale of hundreds of homemade cards made by a doctor from Wishaw General. AWARD-WINNING TEAM: back row – Jim Rae, Maureen Graham, Ruth Ross and Karen Watson. Middle – Carol Hallesy and Lisa McLaren. Front – Paul Herbert and Kevin Morrison eNHS Lanarkshire’s library service achieved a national award for the excellent service it provides. The library service was awarded Quality Assurance Framework accreditation level one by NHS Education Knowledge Services – a terrific achievement. Amanda Minns, library services manager, said: “There was a lot of work involved in terms of analysing the service and implementing changes. But each library benefited from working towards the award and users of the service noticed a difference too. “There’s a lot of work still to be done, but library users can look forward to a number of exciting developments over the next three years as we now look to achieve level two accreditation.” NHS Lanarkshire has five libraries, one at each of the three acute hospitals – Monklands, Hairmyres and Wishaw General – and there is the public health library at Hamilton and the Health Promotion library at Law House. Under the Organisational Development department, the libraries now operate as one service. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 q LOOKING after your teeth is vital – that is the message being driven home by NHS Lanarkshire’s oral health team. As part of their ongoing programme to promote good oral health, the team have launched a poster campaign. And the educational advertisements will be emblazoned on NHS Lanarkshire’s fleet of vans. They include key messages, such as: “Visit your dentist regularly”, “Brush your teeth twice a day” and “Keep sugary snacks to mealtimes only”. Elaine Sharp, senior oral health educator, said: “The posters aim to target the general public and remind them of these three key oral health messages. “Having the messages on the vans means they will be seen by a wide range of groups within Lanarkshire.” Albert Yeung, consultant in dental public health, added: “The idea of using the image of the tongue comes from last year’s oral health quiz ‘How kissable are you?, which raised awareness of the importance of good oral hygiene. “The visual is meant to be eye-catching to draw people’s attention to the oral health messages wherever the NHS Lanarkshire vans travel across the region.” DRIVING MESSAGE HOME: Albert Yeung and Elaine Sharp show the adverts for the fleet of vans SMILES OF CONFIDENCE CHILDREN in Lanarkshire can smile with confidence, thanks to a new DVD and oral health resource. The educational DVD and teaching materials, Smile with Confidence, will teach children the importance of looking after their teeth. Designed and produced by NHS Lanarkshire’s health promotion team and local schools – with local pupils also starring in the DVD – the new resource was launched at an event in Bellshill in October. It will now be incorporated into the school curriculum. Albert Yeung, consultant in dental public health, said: “Smile with Confidence will help promote good oral health for both pupils and teachers. “In addition to increasing knowledge and awareness of good oral hygiene, and how to prevent dental decay, the resource aims to change the school environment in terms of oral health and nutrition. “It’s easy to use and will help support school staff to improve knowledge, strengthen beliefs and change attitudes to oral health.” Smile with Confidence has already proved a winner after it led to NHS Lanarkshire’s oral health team receiving the Patron’s Prize at the 2009 annual conference of the National Oral Health Promotion Group. Celia Watt, senior health promotion officer (Oral Health), FILMMAKERS: Back from left – Kyle McLean, 14, of Caldervale High School; Jennifer Procter, 15, and Marc McGinty, 14, both of Larkhall Academy. Front – Scott Murphy, 15, of Caldervale High School, and Kristin Smith, 15, of Larkhall Academy said: “This new resource will help promote the message of how important it is to look after your mouth. “By working with local schools, we identified gaps in oral health knowledge, therefore we’re confident it meets pupils’ needs. “We carried out a pilot with nine schools in Lanarkshire and the feedback from both the pupils and teachers was very positive. The pupils enjoyed learning about keeping their mouths healthy. “This pilot also showed that Smile with Confidence is an effective tool to promote the improvement of oral health.” The Smile with Confidence DVD and teaching materials will now be distributed to all schools in north and south Lanarkshire. Special needs establishments will also be given a Makaton DVD, showing a method of communication using signs and symbols. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 TOP HEALTH ISSUES Let’s get ready for the winter NHS Lanarkshire has put a comprehensive plan in place to prepare for winter – the health service’s busiest time of year. All staff are asked to be aware of their own responsibilities and ready for the extra pressures winter brings. Staff can get ready by making sure they know their own service’s particular plans or arrangements for dealing with winter pressures and also making sure they take up the offer of a seasonal flu or H1N1 vaccination. They can also get ready for winter by ensuring they know when their GP practice is Media Watch open over the festive period and what services to access if they become ill. They should also stock up their medicine cabinet ahead of the festive period. Leaflets with information and advice on how to get ready for winter will be distributed throughout Lanarkshire. The NHS Lanarkshire website will have a winter health section with advice and festive pharmacy opening times at www.nhslanarkshire.org.uk The Pulse asked staff across NHS Lanarkshire for their great advice on staying healthy and beating the bugs this winter season... Hot tips for cold days Community Nursing Team s e t a r n o i t nfec i e c u d e r ng’ i k Bid to r o w s i ‘ ls The Herald in hospita Helping people back to health Evening Times q The community nursing team at the Central Health Centre agreed that maintaining a good diet was important. “Sometimes it might be more difficult for older people to get out for fresh fruit and vegetables in Mary Rafferty q Mary Rafferty is a senior health promotion officer. She has lots of good advice for parents. “For parents with young children, I would say make sure you all stay active and eat a healthy diet. “When outside it’s very important that babies and toddlers should wear layers of warm clothing, especially a hat as that’s where children lose most of the heat from their body. “For older people, I’d say make sure you keep at least one room in your home at a nice warm temperature. “And have plenty of hot drinks.” thePulse 15 winter but tinned and frozen fruit and vegetables are just as good and will help you stay healthy. “To prevent the spread of infection use tissues for coughs and sneezes, wash hands frequently and remember: ‘Catch it, bin it, kill it’.” Anne McHugh q Anne McHugh, a district nurse, visits older people to provide care and provides them with advice to stay safe in winter. She said: “We’re a lot busier in winter due to an increase in illnesses like chest complaints but older people are also more likely to fall. “I advise them to wear plenty of layers rather than just one thick jumper, as layers help trap the air and keep you warm. “When I visit people in their homes I give basic advice to help avoid falls. Simple things such as wearing sensible footwear and, when indoors, they should remove clutter and avoid things like telephone wires lying over the floor.” Diabetes centre honours pioneer BBC w ebsite Herald praised NHS e The Lanarkshire for its success in Lanarkshire’s initiative of e NHS using six-foot high cardboard cut- reducing rates of infection through the Scottish Patient Safety Programme. An article in September stated: “NHS Lanarkshire has reduced rates of Clostridium difficile in wards by around 50 per cent by ensuring regular hand washing and cleaning and reducing patient movement.” outs to warn people to “Stop! Clean your hands” was highlighted by the BBC, East Kilbride News, Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser and Wishaw Press among others. News, Evening Times, e BBC Hamilton Advertiser and other local organised by NHS Lanarkshire’s Child Healthy Lifestyle Programme – which aims to combat issues around childhood nutrition and exercise. The Carluke and Lanark Gazette, Bellshill Speaker, Motherwell Times were among the newspapers who celebrated this initiative. newspapers covered the opening of the new David Matthews Diabetes Centre at Monklands Hospital in September. Dr Matthews had worked at Monklands for more than 20 years but died last year. His wife Allyson and children joined Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon at the opening. e Claire Ritchie’s appointment as a specialist consultant in rehabilitation was reported by the Evening Times, East Kilbride News, and Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser. in Lanarkshire benefited e Children from the Fit for Fun project – that proposals for a new e News mental health unit at Wishaw General or Monklands Hospital had been approved by NHS Lanarkshire’s board were reported by the BBC, Motherwell Times, Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser, Hamilton Advertiser and other local newspapers. SHARE YOUR STORIES q Has a patient or visitor gone out of their way to praise you? q Is there a new service in your department you are proud of? Contact the communications department on 01698 245069/245077 and help us reflect the good news stories that happen within NHS Lanarkshire every day. 16 thePulse PEOPLE NEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 Moving on Long service 40 not out for Lesley ONE of Scotland’s most respected cancer specialists has retired from Hairmyres Hospital. Dr Hosney Yosef OBE, consultant in clinical oncology, celebrated 35 years’ service with the East Kilbride hospital in August. Friends and colleagues gathered to wish him and wife Sheila, pictured, well. Bill Thomson, who retired as a consultant surgeon at Hairmyres in 2007, said: “I worked with Hosney for more than quarter of a century and was always amazed at his capacity for hard work and the quality and depth of his knowledge. “He is an outstanding individual, professionally and personally. I’m sure I speak for thousands of his former patients and relatives when I wish him well for his retirement.” HUGE THANKS FOR HOSNEY Hosney, who also worked at the Beatson Cancer Centre at Gartnavel General Hospital, first arrived at Hairmyres Hospital as the visiting cancer specialist in 1974. He helped develop the oncology unit as one of the best in the country. Under his guidance, Hairmyres participated in numerous national and international clinical trials for breast, colorectal, lung and oesophageal cancers. at Monklands e COLLEAGUES Hospital’s infertility unit bid farewell to Margaret Johnston, above, who retired after 26 years with the NHS. The associate specialist nurse celebrated at a lunch with her NHS Hosney, who has three children, won’t be taking things easy. He is a director of the Kilbryde Hospice and Ochre, the West of Scotland oesophageal cancer charity and will be returning to his homeland in Egypt to do more voluntary work in the state hospital in Cairo. He said: “I am proud to say the oncology services and results at Hairmyres match the highest standards in the UK.” friends in October. Maureen McGuire, infertility sister at Monklands, said: “Margaret will be missed by everyone.” Margaret, who started as an auxiliary at Bellshill Maternity Hospital, lives with husband of 35 years, Ian. Gibson will certainly not e ANN be living the quiet life after retiring from NHS Lanarkshire’s payroll department following 24 years service. The Hamilton woman, who retired in September, has moved to Aberdeen to help look after her new granddaughter. Ann, payroll team leader, primary care division, celebrated her retirement with her colleagues in Monklands Hospital in September. who worked with the e ANHSNURSE for 42 years has retired from her job at Kilsyth Health Centre. Jane Gray, from Cumbernauld, was given a lunch by friends and colleagues at Kilsyth health centre held a lunch in September. Jane, pictured above centre, said: “I love my work and I’ll miss everyone here. “I’ve no real plans for my retirement but I’m a great reader, enjoy gardening and love spending time with my family so I’ll have more time for that.” Jane completed both general nursing training in Glasgow and midwifery training in Aberdeen. PAYROLL team leader Lesley Weir celebrated an incredible 40 years’ service with the NHS in Lanarkshire. Originally from East Kilbride, Lesley started her working career, aged 16, at the payroll office in Hairmyres on 8 September 1969. She worked in various sites within Lanarkshire, including Hairmyres, Strathclyde Hospital and now Monklands, where she is responsible for Wishaw Hospital and all Bankaide salaries. Lesley, who lives in Motherwell, said: “I was only just out of school when I started and I certainly didn’t think I’d still be here 40 years later. “I was very young and was scared to open my mouth in an office where everyone else seemed ancient. “ I t ’s c e r t a i n l y a d i f f e r e n t environment now and people are definitely not afraid to open their mouths!” Lesley, (pictured with payroll colleagues), continued: “Technology has made a big difference. It makes everything a lot quicker.” Her colleagues marked her magnificent milestone with a tea party. Anne McLaughlin, payroll services manager, said: “I’ve worked with Lesley for 39 of those years and thank her for her support throughout.” On the move outgoing members of e TWO the Lanarkshire NHS Board were thanked for all their hard work at the September board meeting. Hugh Sweeney and Deirdrie McCormick, pictured above, stepped down as non-executive directors. Hugh, NHS Lanarkshire’s first employee director, was also the joint chair of the Area Partnership Forum, chair of the Board’s Staff Governance and Equality, Diversity and Spirtuality Committee. In September, he took up a new role as the health board’s healthy working lives manager and will also be working one day each week on the National Staff Governance Unit. Deirdrie served as a non- executive director for four years and for eight years as chair of the Area Nursing and Midwifery Advisory Committee, four years as chair of the Area Clinical Forum and two years as chair of the Area Clinical Forum Chairs Group for Scotland. She will continue in her clinical role as service delivery manager for children’s services based at Cleland Hospital. Lilian Macer is the new NHS Lanarkshire employee director. Anne Armstrong, associate director of nursing for primary care and community, and current chair of the Area Nursing and Midwifery Advisory Committee, has been elected as chair of the Area Clinical Forum to succeed Deirdre. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 COMPETITIONS/PUZZLES thePulse 17 Oh yes you can! WIN! A PANTOMIME is the perfect way to kick off your Christmas festivities and The Pulse has two family tickets – worth more than £100 – to give away. Your NHS Lanarkshire newspaper has teamed up with the Glasgow Pavilion to offer two family tickets, worth £54 each, for “The New Magical Adventures of Pinocchio”. This year’s not-to-be-missed panto opens on Wednesday 2 December and runs until 30 January. In addition to an all-star cast, there family tickets for the opening night on 2 December, simply answer the following question: is a host of brilliant special effects and magician Chris Derosa will conjure up some amazing magic. The full cast is River City’s Stephen Purdon (Pinocchio), Clyde 2’s Dean Park (Geppetto), Real Radio’s Cat Harvey (the Blue Fairy), Clyde 1’s Des McLean (Jiminy Cricket), High Road’s Derek Lord (Stromboli), Dougie Sannachan (Honest John the Fox) and River City’s Joyce Falconer (Kitty Cat). For a chance to win one of the Who will play Pinocchio in this year’s panto at the Glasgow Pavilion? Send your answers, no later than Friday 20 November, to Martin Stirling at: Communications Department, Strathclyde Hospital, Airbles Road, Motherwell ML1 3BW. Alternatively, you can email [email protected]. nhs.uk with “Panto Competition” in the subject field. Remember to include your job title, place of work and a contact telephone number. HE NOSE YOU KNOW: Stephen Purdon (Pinocchio) kids with Dean Park (Geppetto) The Pavilion box office number is 0141 332 1846 and is open between 10am and 8pm Monday to Saturday. For more details, visit the website at www.pavilionpanto.com ALWAYS LET YOUR CONSCIENCE BE YOUR GUIDE: Clyde 1’s Des McLean as Jiminy Cricket Pulse Sudoku Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, and every 3x3 square. Get the solution on FirstPort. 2 Did yo know? u A winning spin CONGRATULATIONS to Roslyn May and Sharon Simpson who won The Pulse September/October competition. The duo will each receive the fantastic new board game “Spinawina”. Roslyn May, secretary at Wishaw general, and Sharon Simpson, public health practitioner at Bellshill locality, both answered correctly that a spinner replaces a dice in the general knowledge board game. The idea is to use your transport peg on the spinner to reach your destination – the centre of the board – first. To do this, you need to answer questions correctly and collect your four tokens on route. There are 14 question categories including music, films, science and nature, history, true or false, sport and TV. A kids section is also included so they can join in as well. Two unique categories, Guys and Spinawina was invente d by NHS La narkshire’s Marilyn Ne il along with her hu sband Douglas Dolls, have also been included to add some fun and banter between the sexes. This means all the family have a chance to answer questions from their favourite category. Patents for the game have been granted in Britain and the US. Spinawina is available to buy at www.Spinawina.com for £29.99. 3 7 8 9 6 7 5 7 5 6 9 6 9 3 2 3 1 5 8 3 7 4 9 3 8 2 7 3 5 18 thePulse AWARDS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 Better staff health is just the business IMPROVING the health of staff has led to NHS Lanarkshire being nominated for a top national business prize. NHS Lanarkshire has been chosen as a finalist in the Health Work and Wellbeing category of the National Business Awards. This event is the UK’s premier cross-industr y awards programme for both private and public sector organisations. Other finalists in this categor y include E.ON, DV L A , A d m i r a l G r o u p , National Grid and Atlantic Inertial Systems. H u g h S w e e n e y, N H S Lanarkshire’s healthy working lives manager, said: “It is a great achievement to be chosen as finalists for this award ceremony. “This is testimony to all the work carried out by the NHS L anarkshire colleagues, including occupational health staff, managers and all other staff who have worked hard to improve their own and other peoples’ lifestyles for the benefit of their health.” The Health Work and Wellbeing category is for organisations who have improved the health and wellbeing of their workforce by: q Maintaining a safe and healthy working environment beyond legal obligations q Promoting healthy lifestyle choices q Supporting staff with a health condition to remain in work or to return to work q Promoting positive wellbeing and management practices throughout the organisation. The National Business Awards 2009 will take place in November at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. More than 1200 guests are expected, including finalists, judges, business leaders and entrepreneurs. Newsnight presenter Kirsty Wark will be hosting the ceremony with BBC’s business editor Robert Peston as the guest speaker. MAGNIFICENT SEVEN REACH BIG FINALS Stars in NHS Lanarkshire have reached the last stages of the prestigious Scottish Health Awards EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH: Celia Watt Treat for top employee... CONGRATULATIONS to Celia Watt who won the NHS 247’s Employee of the Month for September award. The senior health promotion officer (oral health), is the first NHS employee in Scotland to receive this prize. Celia was nominated for the award by NHS Lanarkshire colleague Albert Yeung, consultant in dental public health, for her work on research projects to improve the oral health knowledge of expectant mothers and secondary school pupils. She can now look forward to a luxurious two-night weekend break for two in London at the Dorchester, one of the world’s most famous five-star hotels, situated on Park Lane close to both Oxford Street and Knightsbridge and the famous Selfridges and Harrods department stores. Celia said: “I didn’t know I had been nominated and didn’t expect to win. “To say I was surprised would be a huge understatement. “It was very nice of Albert to take the time to nominate me and a weekend in a five-star hotel sounds fab! “My partner Joseph and I are now looking forward to using the prize over the Valentine’s weekend.” To see more on Celia’s award, and to learn how to nominate colleagues for the monthly award, visit www.nhs247.com SEVEN health professionals and teams from NHS Lanarkshire have reached the final stages of this year’s prestigious Scottish Health Awards. These awards help acknowledge the hard work, professionalism and devotion of those who work in and with NHSScotland to provide quality healthcare and treatments. The finalists from NHS Lanarkshire are: q The Haven, Blantyre, Lanarkshire – Community Care Award q Niall McShannon, Clydesdale Community Initiatives, Lanark – Community Care Award q Mary Thomson, health visitor team leader, Adam Avenue Medical Practice, Airdrie – Unsung Hero Award q Margaret Sherwood, chaplaincy volunteer, Hairmyres Hospital, East Kilbride – Volunteers Award q Hugh Sweeney, healthy working lives manager, NHS Lanarkshire – NHS Healthy Lifestyle Award q C e l i a Wa t t , s e n i o r h e a l t h promotion officer, Law House, Carluke – NHS Healthy Lifestyle Award q Community Older People’s Team, Royal Burgh House, Rutherglen – Older People Care Award. They will now attend a glamorous HEALTH AWARD FINALISTS: The community older people’s team from Rutherglen. Back row, from left, Alison Moodie, physiotherapist, Maureen Clements, occupational therapist, and Morag Hearty, team coordinator. Front, from left, Elaine Russell, district nurse, Carol Crawford, rehabilitation nurse, and Lynn Cairns, secretary gala award ceremony at the Edinburgh Corn Exchange in November where the winners will be unveiled. As well as being in with a chance of snapping up an award, the finalists will receive a donation to their nominated charity, with more than £30,000 being donated. Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing Nicola Sturgeon said: “I wish to congratulate everyone who has been shortlisted for this year’s Scottish Health Awards. They have all played a special part in It’s important to give recognition to the workers who have made an exceptional contribution to the NHS in Scotland” Nicola Sturgeon improving healthcare in Scotland. “Staff throughout the NHS are hardworking and dedicated to their patients, but I believe it’s important to give recognition to the workers who have made exceptional contributions to the NHS in Scotland, they have all brought enormous benefits to the health of Scotland’s people.” Tim Davison, NHS Lanarkshire chief executive, said: “The Scottish Health Awards are testimony to the fantastic, but sometimes underappreciated, work NHS staff undertake every day. “On behalf of the Lanarkshire NHS Board, I would like to congratulate all of our seven finalists. “They fully deserve this recognition for all their hard work and commitment to improving the health of the Lanarkshire community and providing the best possible care to patients.” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 TRAINING thePulse 19 Engaging course a major success eSTAFF at NHS Lanarkshire can lead the way after completing a top course. The First Line Management programme is accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM). Delivered by Motherwell College lecturers, the course provides an introduction to the responsibilities of a first line manager. Agnes Robb, NHS Lanarkshire’s training manager, said: “It’s a 20-week course for people who see themselves moving into a supervisory role in the future or are already in that position, but not had formal training. “Feedback from graduates and their line managers has been very positive.” Topics include problem solving, time management, managing stress, giving and receiving feedback, motivation, leadership, team building, communications and resolving conflict. For more information contact Agnes Robb at Law House on 01698 377790 or agnes.robb@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk THE Equality and Diversity programme is proving to be incredibly interesting for those taking part. The course was specifically designed to offer help to team leaders when discussing the key equality and diversity issues within the Knowledge and Skills Framework with their staff. Since its launch in November 2008, 400 team leaders and 12 Public Partnership Forum (PPF) members within NHS Lanarkshire have attended the programme, reflecting its success. NHS Lanarkshire wants to ensure its leaders have a wide understanding of this interesting, but complex subject. Kenny Small, director of organisational development and executive lead for diversity and equality, said: “This valuable programme will ensure our staff achieve a high level of understanding on this subject. “The training, and the selfreflection leaders undertake as part of it, will ensure our organisation continues to achieve and manage equality and diversity within the workplace as an employer and service provider. “I am delighted with the uptake for this training and trust that those who have attended have found this to be invaluable, both at work and outwith work.” Feedback from those attending the programme was extremely positive. One of the PPF members said: “This has been quite the most informative and interesting training experience I have ever attended. “No jargon, thank goodness. The presenters were superb.” Gill Hannah, one of the NHS Lanarkshire trainers, is delighted to be involved in the delivery of this programme. She said: “This programme has been one of the most interesting areas I have been involved with for a long time. “For me, the experience has been excellent. It has been extremely interesting to see how individuals reflect on what is discussed.” One-day training programmes are delivered four times per month and there are dates available until December 2009. To b o o k a p l a c e , c o n t a c t Linda Firstbrook, training co-ordinator, Hairmyres Hospital at 01355 585485. For further information, email gill.hannah@lanarkshire. scot.nhs.uk or call 01236 713285. Alternatively, email diversity and equality manager hina.sheikh@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk or call 01698 206386. Training Planner ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT q Induction training Corporate Induction continues to be delivered each week around the four main training sites. Contact Lorna Galloway 01698 366765. Contact: Agnes Robb 01698 377790 or Sue Devine 01698 377807. HEALTH PROMOTION Contact: Ann Moss 01698 245268 or ann.moss@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk DECEMBER DECEMBER q Pre-Retirement Course The one-day programme is open to all staff who plan to retire within the next 12-18 months. 2 Dec, 9.40am-4.30pm, Law House Contact: Agnes Robb 01698 377790 or Sue Devine 01698 377807. JANUARY q Management of Sickness Absence A half-day training programme on management of sickness absence is being delivered between October 2009 and March 2010. This programme provides information on key policy areas and skills on effective communication. 13 Jan, 9.15am-1pm, Main Training Room, Corporate Services Building, Monklands. Contact: Lorna Galloway 01698 366765. q Brief Intervention Smoking Cessation Training 10 Dec, 9.30am-4.30pm, Training Room 1, Law House. HEALTH & SAFETY Contact: Sandra Sweeney 01236 707721 or sandra.sweeney@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk DECEMBER q Control Book 16 Dec, 9.30am-4.30pm, Training Room, Ground Floor, Hairmyres. q COSHH 3 Dec, 9.30am-12.30pm, Training Room, Ground Floor, Hairmyres. q Risk Assessment 7 Dec, 9.30am-12.30pm, Main Training Room, Corporate Services Building, Monklands. LIBRARIES The Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL) database has moved from OVID to EBSCO suppliers on the e-library. Each library is able to offer all staff affected by this change a one-hour refresher course on using this database. Please contact your local librarian for booking. Library staff are happy to give group and one-to-one guidance on literature searching, use of the e-library and using ref works Contacts: Amanda Minns (Hairmyres) 01355 585488/7 Lisa McLaren (Wishaw General) 01698 366316 Paul Herbert (Monklands) 01236 712005 PaMoVA q Whether you work in a surgery, ward or out and about in the community, it is essential for all staff working in the health service to take care of their own MOVING & HANDLING personal safety and be aware of the safety of others. In order Access training dates to reduce the risk of being a in FirstPort victim of unwanted aggression q Manual Handling MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY or violent behaviour, NHS The Moving and Handling Lanarkshire provides Advisors provide an advisory q To provide administrative management of aggression and training service to staff with the knowledge and training for all staff. all employees, for patient and skills to demonstrate an non-patient handlers. Training Contact PaMoVA advisors on understanding of medical courses are from three hours to 01501 824547. terminology. Programme consists of a half day per week two days in duration, content PRACTICE DEVELOPMENT depending on the needs of the over 20-week period, starting on 19 Jan 2010, 9.30am-12.30pm, staff group. Contact: Sandra Contact: Rita Cloughley 01698 366581, Morag Downie 01698 Wishaw General. Sweeney 01236 707721. Carol Hallesy (Law House) 01698 377600/01 Grant Donaghy (NHS Lanarkshire HQ) 01698 281313. DECEMBER q Searching CINAHL Learn how to search the biggest Nursing and Allied Health database and find the results you need each time. 15 Dec, 2pm-4pm, IT Training Room, Corporate Services Building, Monklands. q Introduction to Knowledge for Care 16 Dec, 10am-noon, IT Training Room, Corporate Services Building, Monklands. q Using RefWorks Learn how to use this 366575, Anne Halavage 01698 366582 or Natalie Snodgrass 01698 366590. software to keep track of your vital references and create instant bibliographies. 17 Dec, 2pm-4pm, IT Training Room, Corporate Services Building, Monklands. q Refworks 10 Dec, 1-3pm, IT training room, Wishaw General. q Searching CINAHL 10 Dec, 11-1pm, IT training room, Wishaw General. q Introductionn to the Knowledge for Care The eLibrary is changing, come and find out about accessing online resources. 14 Dec, 9-noon, IT training room, Wishaw General. q Searching Medline Learn how to effectively search the largest medical database. Get the results you need every time. 17 Dec, 1-3pm, IT training room, Wishaw General. q Using the Cochrane Library Find out more about systematic reviews and how to search this database. 10 Dec, 3-5pm, IT training room, Wishaw General. DECEMBER 22 Jan, 9am-4pm, Resus Training Room, Ward 17, Hairmyres. q Senior doctors: Consultant Induction and Professional Development (CIPD) 27, 28 & 29 Jan, 8.45am-5pm Training co-ordinators will contact new consultants directly regarding places. q Senior doctors: Basic Life Support 3 Dec, 2pm-4pm, Resus JANUARY Training Room, Ronald Miller q Education programme launch Education Suite, Wishaw (January – June 2010) General. This six-month programme q Senior doctors: Equality of courses is open to all & Diversity NHS Lanarkshire Nurses, 11 Dec, 9.15am-1pm, Training Midwives, AHPs and Room 1, Corporate Services their support workers. Building, Monklands. For further information q Senior doctors: Immediate on the courses and dates Life Support (ILS) available, please visit 16 Dec, 9am-4pm, Resus www.lanpdc.scot.nhs.uk Training Room, Ward 17, Hairmyres. MEDICAL EDUCATION Contact: Tracey Murtagh 01698 366521 or Tracey.Murtagh @lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk JANUARY q Senior doctors: Immediate Life Support (ILS) Did you know? You can get lots more information on training when you visit the Training and Development homepage on FirstPort 20 thePulse ACHIEVEMENTS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2009 What’s up, doc? Satire, fun and drama – it’s all in a day’s performance for NHS Lanarkshire staff playing a part in Gilbert and Sullivan’s best production ALL THE WORLD IS A STAGE: Caroline Dewey, front left, with the Alice in Wonderland team MEMBERS of NHS Lanarkshire staff past and present appeared in this year’s East Kilbride Gilbert and Sullivan Society’s version of Iolanthe. Dr Sarah Burn-Murdoch, a community paediatrician, and Andy Braidwood, a retired orthopaedic surgeon from Monklands Hospital, starred in the operatic production at the Village Theatre in East Kilbride. Another NHS member of staff, pharmacist Val Reilly, who is the president of the Gilbert and Sullivan Society, herself took on a major role as the fairy queen. The original Iolanthe opened at the Savoy Theatre in London on 25 November 1882 and ran for 398 performances. Both Gilbert and Sullivan were at the height of their creative powers when they wrote Iolanthe and many believe that this, their seventh work together, is the most perfect of their collaborations. Sarah Burn-Murdoch said: “As with most Gilbert and Sullivan operas, Iolanthe laughs at 19th century institutions, in this case the political party system. The big men are vulnerable to the fairy power of the ladies!" Each year, a proportion of the funds raised is donated to a chosen charity; this year it was diabetes charities. CURTAIN UP ON REAL LIFE A CAST of young actors from Cambuslang and Rutherglen locality recently participated in a stage adaptation of Alice in Wonderland. The play, which takes a modern approach to this classic story, highlights a range of issues that teenagers face in society today. Caroline Dewey, youth health development officer who helped organise the play, said: “There are serious underlying messages in the play. “The performance follows the adventures of a 16-year-old girl met by characters in her life that lurk around every corner trying to persuade her to take risks. “Issues that affect young people such as alcohol, drugs, bullying and eating disorders are covered in the performance. “Whether the young person performed in the drama or was part of the audience, the performance provided a powerful way to explore health topics that affect young people.” The play aims to empower young people to make positive and informed choices about their health and wellbeing. As well as acting in the performance, the young people also had a hand in writing the script. This ensured the play tackled the contemporary issues that were relevant to both the cast and the audience. The production was organised by The Den, a youth health initiative within Cambuslang and Rutherglen, and Express Yourself Arts Project. Both organisations, which are funded by the Big Lottery Fund, worked in partnership to provide an opportunity for young people in the local area to perform in the drama and look at health issues that concerned them. The Den is a health drop-in for young people in Cambuslang and Rutherglen locality. Young people can come along for one-to-one health support and advice and/or take part in workshops on a variety of issue-based health topics. Express Yourself Arts Project runs music, dance and drama workshops throughout the year for young people. There are plans to run another drama production in partnership with The Den. Caroline added: “We have been really lucky to Gilbert and Sullivan work alongside talented collaborated on fourteen comic and enthusiastic operas between 1871 and 1896, young people.” and during the run of Following the success of the programme in the Iolanthe, Sullivan was summer, The Den and knighted Express Yourself Arts have committed to run weekly drama sessions on Monday evenings from 6.30pm-8pm at the CTEC building, Cambuslang. The sessions are open to all young people interested in drama in the local area. Did you know? WELL STAGED: Dr Sarah Burn-Murdoch and retired surgeon Andy Braidwood