The new unit, based at the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham will see patients who can be seen and treated on the same day, helping to improve patient flow and ensure they don’t need to stay in the hospital for any longer than necessary.
Treatments carried out will include things like food allergy testing, infusions, blood tests, lumbar punctures and other medical procedures for children and young people up to 17 years old.
The Trust has made patient flow a priority as part of the People First strategy and the new unit aims to help with this by providing a dedicated area for day case patients, which includes six specialist day case chairs, a nurse’s station and a treatment room.
Patients will also have access to play specialists to help support them with distractions and procedures whilst care is being given.
Elizabeth Bentley, Ward Manager at the Nottingham Children’s Hospital said:
“We aim to provide stability and a welcoming environment for these children and their families.
“We have a newly developed team of nurses, support workers, receptionists and play specialists. The staff will work closely with doctors and Specialist Nurses to deliver a high standard of care.”
Louise Wells, Consultant Paediatrician, added:
“It will mean that patients will be in an appropriate environment without having to compete with acutely unwell children, reducing their risk of infection from being placed with unwell children in the winter months.”
At the official opening, a red ribbon on the door was cut and members of staff were able to walk around and have a look at the unit before it’s open to the public and patients.
Louise Kirk, Lead of Education at the Nottingham Children’s Hospital said:
“It’s so spacious and visually pleasant to look at.
“It’s going to be great for patient experience as it will be a quick pace, streamlined service and they’re seen to as quickly as possible and home again. I’m really excited to see it open and what the impact it will make on patients and staff in a few months’ time.”
