NHS greater glasgow and clyde Sign Up Information

• Remove the sting or tick if it's still in the skin.
• Wash the affected area with soap and water.
• Apply a cold compress (such as a flannel or cloth cooled with cold water) or an ice pack to any swelling for at least 10 minutes.
• Raise or elevate the affected area if possible, as this can help reduce swelling.
• Avoid scratching the area, to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid traditional home remedies, such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, as they're unlikely to help.
• The pain, swelling and itchiness can sometimes last a few days. Ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter treatments that can help, such as painkillers, creams for itching and antihistamines.  

• Ensure you wear cool clothing
• Drink cold drinks regularly such as water or squash
• Try and stay out of the heat between 11am to 3pm
• Make sure you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet so you can self-treat if needed

NHS Staff Being Physically and Verbally Assaulted
 
Over the past 12 months 5,182 healthcare staff in Greater Glasgow and Clyde suffered verbal or physical assault while at work despite a concerted and ongoing campaign to combat aggression.
 
These new figures are evidence that incidents of violence and aggression are a serious factor for healthcare workers. The Health Board hopes that by highlighting the extent of the incidents, it can help reduce and deter such incidents.
 
Anne MacPherson, Director of Human Resources and Organisational Development, said:  “Despite us introducing a range of measures to protect our staff we are unfortunately still seeing incidents of both physical and verbal abuse.
 
“In some instances staff have required support from Police Scotland because of the danger to their own and patients’ wellbeing, and that is unacceptable.
 
“As a Board we are committed to reducing and deterring such incidents as well as ensuring staff are trained to deal with situations when they do arise.  We must do all we can to protect our staff whilst delivering our services 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Our staff should be able to fulfil their duties without fear of assault or abuse.”
 
Kenneth Fleming, Head of Health and Safety, added:  “NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has a proactive Violence and Aggression Policy and also a Standards of Behaviour document, which states that our staff are entitled to work free of threats, assaults and intimidation.
 
“We take any acts of physical or verbal abuse very seriously.  Where staff are assaulted or abused while at work, whether in our hospitals or in the community, we fully support them and encourage them to pursue their abusers through the criminal justice system.”
 
Here is a break-down of the 31^st May 2018 to 31^st May 2019 figures.
 

 
To find out more visit https://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/

New Technology Providing Faster Diagnosis and Cutting Missed Appointments

Scotland’s largest health board is introducing technology and artificial intelligence as part of an eHealth revolution on detecting and diagnosing disease. 
 
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is working with a range of partners to be at the forefront of developing algorithms which can mimic the knowledge of pathologists which will allow computers to scan digital images for anomalies in biopsies and tissue samples. 
 
This is just one of the many areas technology is helping deliver care to patients and speed up the diagnosis process. 
 
William Edwards, NHSGGC's Director of eHealth, said: "What the Board is keen to do is put in place the ability for images to be captured digitally rather than slices being made available on glass slides and looked at under a microscope.  The pathology sample can then be looked at on a computer. 
 
"This should take us to a situation where clinicians are only being presented with the significant scans and images that need more interpretation, rather than some of the more mundane or routine ones. 
 
"In order for the computer to come up to speed around that, however, it has to learn how clinicians work. 
 
"There is a whole exercise underway now with ourselves and other partners to make sure that we can train the algorithms to read these images going forward. 
 
"In the same way as a pathologist, the algorithm needs to understand when additional information is required or when to zoom into images, and where they might make decision based on the information presented. 
 
“Overall, the goal is to increase the turnaround times for pathology results so that patients can get faster diagnoses and treatment.” 
This builds on work already taking place as part of the newly developed Attend Anywhere (NHS Near Me) service which offers remote video consultations to pregnant women in Argyll. 
 
The mums to be have consultations with consultant obstetricians from the Royal Alexandra Hospital Maternity unit through video-link.  The women are joined by their local midwife who has already done the routine blood pressure and urine tests and the consultation takes place with any anomalies being flagged up to the obstetrician by the midwife. 
 
Remote video consultations are also taking place with some patients in Campbeltown Hospital where a remote video-link service is offered for orthopaedic patients to specialist orthopeadic consultants located more than 135 miles away in Glasgow. 
  
As well as saving time, video consultations are also cutting the number of missed appointments. 
 
Another eHealth initiative is offering patients suffering chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) a home remote-monitored non-invasive ventilation (NIV) that has already demonstrated benefits including reducing hospital admissions. 
 
With approximately 129,000 people in Scotland experiencing exacerbations of COPD, it is the second most common cause of emergency hospital admissions, this initiative could reduce the number of COPD admissions which is much better for the patient. 
 
Dr Chris Carlin, a respiratory consultant at Gartnavel General hospital, treats patients diagnosed with COPD every day and was part of the initial pilot recruiting 42 patients and setting them up with NIV machines and masks at home which were fitted with chip enabling data to be relayed wirelessly to the medics at Gartnavel. 
 
Dr Carlin said: "We could see the data, see how the patient was getting on, and we could adjust the settings remotely. 
 
"Results from the pilot showed a significant reduction in both hospital admissions and hospital bed days among the participants." 
 
To find out more about our services and latest news click here https://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/news/

Beatson trial brings hope for cancer patients

A world-wide cancer trial involving the Beatson in Glasgow is bringing hope to patients who would once have been considered incurable.

The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre (BWOSCC) has been part of a phase ll clinical trial which has shown that an aggressive form of high precision radiation therapy can greatly increase the lives of patients diagnosed with metastatic tumours (oligometastic).

Generally, when a patient has a cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, called metastatic cancer, they are considered incurable, but, in the first randomized trial of its kind, researchers at a number of cancer centres across the world have shown that an aggressive form of high-precision radiation therapy can double how long a patient can live without cancer.

Dr Stephen Harrow, Ph.D a National Research Scotland Fellow at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre and co-author on the study, said:  “We are very excited about these results and I truly believe it could be a game-changer for many.

“Traditionally when a cancer has spread to other organs other than the original site of the disease patients were considered incurable.

“However there is a theory called the oligometastatic theory – that if a patient only has a few spots of cancer returning, those spots could be killed with radiation or with surgery to improve their survival.  But this has never been shown in a randomized trial before now.”

This multi-centre trial studied patients with a variety of oligometastatic cancers that is cancers that had been previously treated but then returned in a limited number of other parts of the body including patients at the BWOSCC.

The patients were treated with stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), also known as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which is a form of high-precision cancer therapy that delivers substantially higher doses of radiation to the tumour site in just one or a few treatment sessions.

In this open-label study called SABR-COMET 99 patients from Scotland, Canada, the Netherlands and Australia were enrolled as part of the trial. Each patient had been treated for cancer but the cancer had returned, with tumours appearing in as many as five different places. All patients had good performance status and a life expectancy of more than six months.

The study was developed by Dr David Palma a clinician-scientist at the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research which provided funding for this study, which was recently published in the Lancet.

As a result of Dr Harrow and Dr Palma’s collaboration at the BWOSCC was the only UK site to open the study, enabling access to SABR treatment in this clinical indication for Scottish patients.

Dr Harrow added:  “It has been a great opportunity for Scottish patients to take part in this ground breaking clinical trial and now we’ve been able to show that if, indeed, a patient’s cancer has spread to only a few spots, those tumours can be targeted with high-dose radiation which has been shown to increase survival by a median of 13 months.”

One patient who has benefitted from the trial is Albert Anderson (83) from Dunure in Ayrshire. Seven years ago he had a cancerous lesion in his windpipe, which was followed three years later with two small tumours in his lung.

Albert said: “Thanks to the trial, my cancer has been completely eradicated. My treatment has been excellent, just excellent. I am still attending Dr Harrow’s clinic firstly every three months and then every six. They now only need to see me back once a year which is good and I feel fine.

“I hope the treatment this trial brings become normal for everyone and brings hope to those with secondary cancers.”
ENDS

Last Chance to Nominate Local Health heroes
 
John Brown, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s chairman, has issued his thanks to residents across Greater Glasgow and Clyde for nominating their local NHS hero for the prestigious annual Chairman’s Awards.
 
There has already been a significant number of nominations made, but there is still time if you haven’t already nominated an individual or team before the closing date next Wednesday on July 31st.
 
The event celebrates innovation and staff who go that extra mile to provide exceptional care for their patients.
 
NHSGGC’s Chairman is asked people to nominate and help identify those who deserve recognition. For the first time ever, all seven categories are open to the public:
 

• Nursing Your chance to nominate a top nurse or top nursing team who displays the best qualities of patient care and the ethos of nursing

• Global Citizenship Excellent examples of NHSGGC staff who have travelled overseas to provide healthcare and/or education to people in developing countries or in countries in crisis

• Volunteer  We have so many volunteers – please tell us your favourite

• Better Care Tell us more about the excellent care you have received through any NHSGGC service  

• Better Health How have we helped you improve your health? Maybe it’s healthy eating, smoking cessation, physical activity, or activities aimed at improving mental health. Tell us more

• Better Value Nominate projects which are saving time or resources

• Better Workplace A new award for 2019 - This category recognises the often unseen work of our staff who are helping to make NHSGGC a Better place to work.

 
Chairman John Brown said: “Each day when I visit services across the organisation I am hugely impressed by the people I meet and their dedication to their patients and the NHS. 
 
“Our awards are a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on these people and to celebrate those who go above and beyond the call of duty to provide exceptional care and support.
 
“Last year the entries were of an exceptionally high standard and I’m looking forward to reading more inspiring nominations this year.”
 
To nominate your local health hero visit www.nhsggc.org.uk/chairmansawards.
 
The closing date for entries is Wednesday, July 31st.

To read more visit https://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/news/2019/07/chairman-awards-2019/
 
 

Scotland now has its very first virtual consultation clinic for patients receiving respiratory physiotherapy.
 
The remote video consultations mean people in North East Glasgow can now ‘attend’ appointments online rather than attend hospital clinics. 
 
Accessing the service through an app from a phone, PC or tablet allows patients to remain at home or work while getting physiotherapy support for their conditions. 
 
With more people in the West of Scotland experiencing respiratory problems the new way of working is helping patients manage conditions such as Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction, a group of disorders previously called vocal cord dysfunction, and Bronchiectasis.
 
The system also allows other family members to join the consultation using their own device from a different location.
 
Introduced by the respiratory physiotherapy outpatient service, the new way of working is designed to meet a 25% rise in patient numbers over the last five years.
 
The project team was initially awarded funding from the Scottish Government Technology Enabled Care fund for three months. This was further extended following positive patient feedback and an increase in consultations.
 
Pamela Vaughn, advanced clinical physiotherapist, Respiratory Medicine, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Video consultations mean we can see around 25-30% more patients compared to face-to-face appointments.
 
“These video consultations enable us to see more patients for check-ups or routine appointments without them having to come to us.
 
“People wait in virtual waiting rooms and join us from their home, work and even cafes. One of the key benefits for patients is that family members can also take part either together or remotely. It’s not unusual for a family member who lives elsewhere in the country or abroad to join in consultations.
 
“This new approach is part of the expanding use of video consultations across hospital and community services in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
 
“It’s something we’re now working to roll out across the rest of the Board area to enable us to see as many patients as possible. This means we can see patients within timelines set out by National guidelines, we struggled before due to the demand on our service.
 
“We only offer the service to patients who we feel are suitable and qualitative feedback from them is positive.
 
“Patients tell us they feel they are achieving the same outcome as face-to-face consultations. Feedback shows that patients find the system easy to use and have an appetite to use the system for future appointments.
 
“One key point is that they find remote consultation more convenient and it takes less time out of their day. It also means staff can deliver the service from anywhere and aren’t tied to any one NHSGGC facility.”
 
Case study
 
Helen McDougall from Milngavie has been an outpatient with the respiratory physiotherapy service for 16 years.
 
She said: “Being a patient of this service has changed my life. I had just retired from my job as a primary school head teacher and wasn’t in good health. Over the last 16 years I’ve been working with Pamela and thanks to her I now have a different lifestyle. There aren’t many people who can say they’re fitter at 76 than at 60!
 
“When Pamela first mentioned the virtual clinics I hoped I’d be able to work the technology. However, it’s so well set out that I was able to easily follow it.
 
“I was initially worried about missing face-to-face contact as I’d built up a lot of trust with Pamela. The trust is still there over the virtual clinic as I’m still speaking to the same person and I still feel very good.
 
“I would recommend other people have their appointments this way. I had back surgery last year and couldn’t drive so this facility was wonderful. They’re trying to reach more people by doing this and I wold recommend it to anyone.
 
“Respiratory problems are growing the West of Scotland and it’s great to get a service like this.
 
ENDS
 

Health Secretary meets Staff at One of the Top 100 Hospitals in the World
 
Glasgow Royal Infirmary has secured its place a world-leading healthcare facility – being named by Newsweek earlier this year as one of the top 100 hospitals in the World.
 
To celebrate this wonderful achievement the Health Secretary, Jeane Freeman, visited the hospital today.
 
She met a number of staff including NHSGGC’s Chairman, John Brown, clinicians, nurses, allied health professionals, domestics and porters to offer her personal thanks to the and everyone who works in the hospital for all their hard work in making the hospital one of the top 100 in the world,
 
Glasgow Royal Infirmary is the only Scottish Hospital to make the top-notch list, which included top facilities in Germany, Japan, Switzerland and the United States.
 
The hospitals on this list are at the forefront of adapting to new challenges while providing outstanding patient care. They range from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, with its peerless educational arm; to Singapore General Hospital, which pursues clinical research and offers outstanding nursing; to the Charité hospital in Berlin, which employs more than half of Germany’s Nobel Prize winners in physiology or medicine.
 
After meeting staff Ms Freeman said:  “I’ve had a chance to see exactly why Glasgow Royal Infirmary has been named among the top 100 hospitals worldwide.
 
“It is clear to me that the staff at Glasgow Royal Infirmary are committed to delivering high quality, safe and effective care. They also work hard to continuously improve that care.
 
“I want to thank each and every one of them for their drive and continued dedication.”
 
 
John Brown added:  “We are delighted that Glasgow Royal Infirmary is named in the top 100 hospitals in the world and in the top 10 in the UK.
 
“The Royal’ has been caring for Glaswegians for 225 years now and has been at the forefront of pioneering medicine over that time. This recognises the hard work, dedication and excellent care for patients that is provided by our staff.”
 
Glasgow Royal Infirmary has been serving the east end of Glasgow since 1794.
 
It is a City Centre hospital serving a local catchment population of 320,000, 28% of the total NHSGGC population. It provides Medical, Surgical, Medicine for the Elderly, Gynaecology, Maternity and Burns & Plastics inpatient, day case and outpatient services, with a number of specialties providing regional and national services.
 
The site has 994 beds over mixed, older estate with multiple ward designs of varying size of 9 - 30 beds with limited single room availability. As a City Centre Hospital, the GRI has a very busy ‘front door’ service for acute assessment, accident and emergency and minor injuries, seeing over 120,000 presentations a year. 
 
For more news from NHSGGC visit https://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/
 

You may be aware of an article in today’s Daily Record on the comments from a sub-contractor involved in the building of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. 
 
The article failed to carry our full statement which makes clear that when we took over the building from the contractor there was a substantial period of cleaning before opening to patients.
 
For your information our full statement is copied below:
 
NHS GREATER GLASGOW AND CLYDE STATEMENT
 
The construction of the building was carried out between 2009 and 2015. Any issues during this time were the responsibility of Brookfield, the contractor. As with all construction work, any issues raised by sub-contractors should have been raised with them at the time.
 
The building became the responsibility of the NHS when it was handed over to us in early 2015.
 
As part of the handover from the builder to the NHS, and in preparation for opening, more than three months was spent fitting out, testing and cleaning 7,600 rooms. A full inspection of the building was then completed before opening to patients.

ENDS

Tayside NHS Board Chair appointment

Scottish Ministers are looking to appoint a new Chair to Tayside NHS Board. 

This is an exciting time of transformational change for NHS Tayside, designing and delivering changes which will improve performance and develop the capability and capacity to return NHS Tayside to its place as one of the most innovative and best performing Health Boards in the UK.

You will have the senior level experience required for this significant appointment and will play a central leadership role in guiding the strategies which address the health priorities and health and care needs of the people of Tayside. If you have what it takes to fulfil this rewarding and challenging role, we would like to hear from you.  
 
You will be accountable to Scottish Ministers for leading the Board, comprising non-executive and executive members, which will improve, sustain and protect the health of the local communities.  You will understand and promote diversity. 
 
For further information go to: appointed-for-scotland.org

 
The Skye’s the Limit for Gartloch Girl Who Battled Bone Cancer

Being 13 can be tough on any young girl, but Skye Duncan from Gartloch took it all in her stride, while learning to adapt to life without her right arm. Looking back over the “worst year of their life”, her mum Ann (48) is paying tribute to her daughter for her courageous battle against an aggressive form of bone cancer.
 
Exactly a year ago the Duncan family were given the devastating news that Skye, who has a twin sister Sara, had Osteosarcoma.Skye had a sore arm for a few weeks but it was a fall from a banana boat on holiday which saw them attend A&E and Glasgow Royal Infirmary on their return. Just days later came the news that she had a large tumour in the arm and then that it was cancerous.
 
Skye was admitted to the Royal Hospital for Children under the care of orthopaedic surgeon Mr Rod Duncan as well as cancer specialists in Ward 6a. Despite intensive chemotherapy, Skye’s condition started to deteriorate rapidly during September.
The decision came that her right arm had to be amputated.
 
“The minute the arm left her she improved rapidly. She got out of bed four hours after surgery. She hadn’t been able to get out of bed for weeks. Whatever they did in that surgery worked. She went in grey and came out looking amazing with her wee rosy cheeks back. It was like the poison can been cut away,” said Ann.
 
Ten months of chemo followed, ending on her 14^th birthday on the 17^th May. Looking back on her time in ward 6a, Skye and her family have many fond memories, despite what they were going through.
 
Skye said: “It might sound daft but I miss the nurses. They were amazing. You would think because of the job they do they might be sad all the time but it’s the opposite.
 
“They kept us all going and were so funny. The staff make it 100% better when they sit with you and make jokes. Nothing was too much trouble for them. They let my pals come up to visit me every week and we even ordered in pizza. I also had a pyjama party at my birthday. These things make you feel normal for a wee while.”
 
Mum Ann agrees: “We need to thank Mr Duncan too; he’s been unbelievable. The whole year while she was going through her chemo, he kept popping up to see her in 6a. He’s a busy man and he didn’t need to but he did. We joked about us having the same second name. Honestly, if Skye was his daughter he couldn’t have done more for her.”
 
Shortly after Skye was discharged from the Royal Hospital for Children, Ann received an email which brought great news. While in hospital Skye had entered a poster competition run by Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity to encourage young patients to drink and eat ice lollies before surgery in order to stay hydrated.
 
Mr Rod Duncan said: “Like many children, Skye has been incredible in the face of a life-changing diagnosis and the support that Skye has received from her family has been amazing. They are an inspiration to those of us who have been looking after her.”

ENDS
 

Clean bill of health for Cowlairs Decontamination Unit

NHSGGC’s Cowlairs Decontamination Unit has been praised following a recent inspection.

The unit is where the Health Board cleans the majority of the instruments used for surgical procedures.

The three day inspection by LRQA, which took place at the end of July found the site to be “clean, tidy and well organised” and that there had been a “significant improvement in quality and production processes” since the last visit.

Every instrument is fully inspected as part of our robust quality assurance processes within the CDU.  This is carried out at various stages in the process including within the clean room, where after initial washing, instruments are packaged before final sterilisation. Surgical site infection (SSI) rates are closely and routinely monitored and despite a temporary closure of the site at the end on 2018, nothing of concern was found.
 
Tom Steele, NHSGGC’s Director of Estates and Facilities said: “This is an excellent report for the Cowlairs Unit and I would like to thank all staff for their continued good work.
 
“It was especially pleasing that the auditors highlighted the positive atmosphere within the unit and general enthusiasm being demonstrated by the staff.
 
“The public and our patients rightly expect very high standards and this report should give reassurance that Cowlairs is operating safely and efficiently and quality is at the centre of everything they do.”

Smoking ban in prisons hailed a success by health experts
 

Eight months after all Scottish prisons became smoke-free, NHSGGC, which supports HMP Barlinnie, HMP Greenock and HMP Low Moss, declared the move a public health success.

In the run-up to the new legislation on 30 November 2018, the Scottish Prisons Service and NHSGGC worked together to ensure widespread engagement and preparation with people in prison, the removal of all tobacco and smoking related items and increased provision of smoking cessation support. 

The smokefree legislation was introduced following concerns for the welfare of both those in custody and those who work in prisons.

NHSGGC’s Director of Public Health Linda de Caestecker said: “Eight months on we can look back and hail this as a major public health success. This was one of the best examples of partnership working in Public Health with NHSGGC, the Scottish Government and the Scottish Prisons Service working well together with very effective communication between three agencies. 

Before the legislation was introduced, an estimated 68% of prisoners smoked – compared with around 18% of the general public.  Smoking still kills around one in five people in Scotland and reducing smoking prevalence remains a public health priority.

Helping prisoners who smoked prepare was crucial with the NHS Quit Your Way prisons team providing increased levels of stop smoking support for prisoners who wanted to stop smoking before the introduction of the ban. Prisoners also had the option of a rechargeable e-cigarette to help them adapt to a smoke-free environment.

Dr Linda de Caestecker added:  “Providing a smoke free prison environment for people to live, work and visit will undoubtedly improve health and change smoking behaviour - not only in prison but also as people return to the community.

“Our staff worked extremely well with SPS colleagues, to make sure the change was as smooth as possible for all concerned. A lot of planning went into this and just before the ban we were running 18 stop smoking groups each week in the prisons we cover. The preparation and planning was based on very good research from university of Glasgow. 

“There has been greater on-going demand for stop smoking services than even we anticipated and we continue to provide significant levels of support to those in custody.

“Our work continues as new prisoners arrive and need our help to manage in a smoke free prison.

“The best news is that the air quality in Scottish Prisons is now broadly similar to air quality outdoors. There is now evidence that Smoke Free Prisons resulted in 81% reduction in second hand smoke across Scottish prisons. This is good news for prisoners, staff and visitors.

“The response from all three prisons has been fantastic and former smokers are feeling the benefit of the ban. I look forward to seeing the on-going health benefits from this in the years to come.

“This programme is one of a number of smoking cessation services offered by NHSGGC where our quit rates are 22 % which is the best in the country if not one of the best internationally.”

If you are interested in stopping smoking please contact your local Quit Your Way team via 0800 84 84 84 or QuitYourWay.scot or text QUIT to 83434 for a free quit pack or CALL and a Quit Your Way advisor will call you back.

 

Awards for Film Providing Opportunity for Children to Explore Effects of Domestic Abuse

An educational film for school children which addresses the impact of domestic abuse on children, and features local young actors, has received film industry awards. Released last year it has received several awards in the Depth of Field film festival and is a finalist in this year’s Olympus Film Festival.
 
The film ‘Keeping Mum’, which also stars Jane McGarry and Mark Cox, better known for their roles as Isa and Tam in Still Game, was developed after NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s (NHSGGC) Health Improvement Team, Glasgow Violence Against Women and Community Safety Glasgow commissioned Baldy Bane Theatre company to produce a play on domestic violence for P5 – P7 children across Glasgow.
 
The play was so successful that the script was redeveloped to produce a high quality film that could be shown to children across Scotland, funded by NHS endowments.
 
The film ‘Keeping Mum’ and the original play consist of three children’s experiences of domestic abuse and how it affects their daily lives.  The film is now shown to children alongside a teacher pack and workshops which give children the opportunity to explore some of the issues raised in the film, understand other people’s feelings who may be living with domestic abuse, and offers them the chance to talk about domestic abuse with other class mates and their teachers.
 
The film was produced by Soundsmove Production along with Baldy Bane and is available with sign language, audio descriptor and subtitles. Keeping Mum can be viewed here: www.nhsggc.org.uk/gbvresources and should be used alongside the teacher pack provided.
 
Maree Todd, Minister for Early Years & Childcare, said at the launch last year: "I want to congratulate the makers of the film for raising awareness of this very difficult and challenging subject.  Attitudes towards domestic abuse are changing but it is still a very serious public health issue that disrupts the lives of many children and young people."

“Our strategy to stop domestic abuse, Equally Safe, recognises the issue has very significant consequences for the victim, and that children and young people growing up in that setting are also seriously affected even if the abuse is not directed at them. We want children to feel like they can talk about the tough experiences they have, both to their teachers, their family and their friends. 
 
“We recognise that these experiences can affect children in many different ways later in life and support from a trusted adult at the right time can make a huge difference.”     

Barbara Adzajlic, Health Improvement Senior, NHSGGC said:  “I’m delighted that the film has done so well. The director, cast and crew committed themselves to this project and produced a fantastic resource on limited time and budget. Stella, Natasha and Luke produced wonderful and moving performances that have been commented on by teachers and other professionals who have viewed the film.
 
“Domestic abuse is a huge public health issue affecting many children and young people across Scotland. Keeping Mum is an important part of our work with Education Services to raise awareness of the issue, to encourage children and young people to seek support and to equip professionals to provide that support.”
 
ENDS

Pic:  Some of the cast from 'Keeping Mum' including Jane McGarry and Mark Cox

Stobhill ward praised by mental health inspectors

A ward at Stobhill which treats patients with eating disorders has been praised in a recent inspection by the Mental Welfare Commission.
 
Inspectors visited Armadale Ward on the Stobhill Campus at the end of May and met with staff and patients.
 
The staff were “professional, approachable, engaged well and (had) a positive attitude” and were knowledgeable about the patients in their care. It was also noted that nursing staff had recently extended their role to carry out physical examinations such as ECGs and taking bloods.
 
Good planning was also evident on the day of the visit, with patients being given opportunities to consider the benefits of exercise and healthy eating to help promote recovery and patient-centred plans were regularly reviewed.
 
Patients with eating disorders need to be supervised regularly, particularly around meal times and inspectors found there to be an additional compliment of nursing staff “to meet the unique needs of patients who require an enhanced level of observation.”
 
When the Mental Welfare Commission last visited the ward in April 2018 a recommendation was made to improve access to the garden and privacy for patients. In May’s inspection they were pleased to see this had been addressed, with the garden now offering both security and privacy.
 
The inspection also found a good programme of structured activity for patients, and some were attending community based therapy groups that day. There were also opportunities for individual therapeutic activities for those not able to take part in group sessions. Input from the therapeutic activity nurses was singled out for providing “an extensive variety of activities and are highly praised by patients and the clinical team.”
 
Isobel Paterson, Head of Adult Services for Glasgow Health and Social Care Partnership (North East) said: “We welcome such a positive report from the Mental Welfare Commission that recognises the work of all staff who deliver services within Armadale Ward to provide recovery focussed care to patients who require to use our services.”
 
ENDS

SCHOOL IMMUNISATION TEAMS GEARING UP TO OFFER FLU VACCINE T0 90,000 PRIMARY PUPILS
 
The school summer holidays are all but over and the children are all settling back into school life.
 
Over the next week children in primary schools across Greater Glasgow and Clyde will be sent home with Flu immunisation consent packs for parents/carers to complete and return to school ahead of this year’s immunisation programme
 
Our team of school immunisation staff are already hard at work gearing up for the primary school flu immunisation programme. 
 
The team will visit nine primary schools each day – 343 in total - from 7^th October as they bid to immunise 90,000 primary school pupils against flu. 
 
Parents/carers are being asked to complete the forms and return them to the school within seven days. 
 
The flu vaccine is given as a painless nasal spray. Children who can’t have the nasal spray for medical or religious reasons can receive the vaccine as an injection in the upper arm. 
 
Children have the highest flu attack rates and are more likely to pass on the virus to family, friends and the wider community. 
 
However, evidence from Public Health England has shown that where primary school age children were given the vaccine there is a significant reduction in the number of children and adults attending GPs and hospitals with flu like illness. 
 
Linda de Caestecker, NHSGGC’s director of Public Health, said: “It may seem very early to be thinking about flu just after the summer holidays, however we want to immunise as many children – one of the most vulnerable groups - as possible. 
 
“Vaccinating 90,000 primary children over a nine week period is a massive operation for our teams. However, it is hugely important as the vaccine is the best protection we have against an unpredictable virus which causes severe illness and deaths each year. 
 
“If a primary pupil was immunised against flu last year it is important they get the vaccine again this year, as the virus changes every year. As a result, a different vaccine has to be made every year, meaning annual vaccination is necessary for children.  
 
“I’d urge parents and carers to return the completed consent form as soon as possible. Flu needs to be taken seriously – it’s not the same as the common cold and the virus can have an immediate and severe effect.”
 
ENDS
 

Chief Nurse for Children is Named Finalist in Scottish Women of the Year Awards 2019

Jennifer Rodgers, Chief Nurse for paediatrics and neonatal, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow has been announced as a finalist for ‘Services to Medicine’ in the prestigious Scottish Women’s Awards 2019.
 
Jennifer started as a nursing student in 1993 and after becoming a qualified nurse in 1996 took up a Staff Nurse position in Royal Hospital for Sick Children (Yorkhill), Glasgow. She gained further experience working in Australia and New Zealand, including nursing sick children in the Australian outback.
 
Combining experience with academic learning, she completed her MSc in 2009 winning the prestigious Barber Prize for continual high standards in academic work and clinical practise.
 
In 2012 Jennifer was the first paediatric nurse to complete the Scottish Patient Safety Fellowship, and in 2013 won the Scottish Nurse of the Year Award at the Scottish Health Awards.
 
Jennifer is an advocate of person centred and family integrated care and her original project asking children to draw or write ‘What matters to me’ posters became a key driving force and an integral part of the Scottish and International ‘What matters to you?’ movement.
 
Jennifer now provides professional leadership to over a thousand registered nurses and over three hundred nursing support staff within the Royal Hospital for Children, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Neonatal Unit, Royal Alexandra Hospital Neonatal Unit and The Princess Royal Neonatal Unit.
 
Jane Grant, Chief Executive, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said:  “I am delighted that Jen has been named as a finalist for this year’s Scottish Women’s Awards.
 
“Her commitment, care, dedication and professionalism in her role as Chief Nurse epitomises the ethos of nursing.”
 
Jennifer said:  “I am humbled to be nominated and named as a finalist for this award.
 
“It’s a privilege to come to work every day and to work alongside so many inspirational people who make such a difference to the lives of the tiniest of babies, children, young people and their families. It’s an honour to play my part and to be recognised in this way.”
 
The RHC is Scotland’s largest children’s hospital, a state of the art facility and the sole provider of many national paediatric services including cardiac surgery, cleft surgery, renal and bone marrow transplant.

ENDS

It's Hip Hip Hooray Again for Royal Alexandra Hospital 
 
The Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) in Paisley has been presented with a national award for the second consecutive year for its standards of care for hip fracture patients.
 
The “Golden Hip” award is given to the Scottish hospital that meets the highest overall performance measured against a set of standards for hip fracture patients over the year.
 
This is now the third time the award has been presented to the RAH since it began in 2016 and the orthopaedic team are setting the bar high for other hospitals across the country.
 
Rashid Abu-Rajab, Lead Consultant accepted the award on behalf of the team.  He said:  “We are delighted to receive this national award two consecutive years running and it is all down to the hard work of the whole team.
 
“The RAH has a proactive multidisciplinary group led by the Orthopaedic Department.  This team is dedicated to optimising the care of hip fracture patients, whilst assisting them to preserve their ability to retain independence.
 
“This is crucial to ensure that people who fracture their hips return to their original place of residence as quickly and as safely as possible, especially at a time in their lives where life is even more precious.”
 
The Scottish Standards of Care for Hip Fracture Patients are a set of standards to encourage best practice for hip fracture patients in Scotland. These standards are audited at a national level, and the results presented in the Scottish Hip Fracture Audit Annual Report.

ENDS

Patients at the Vale of Leven hospital’s oncology day unit can now gaze at Dumbarton Castle, the Alexandria Fountain and even Loch Lomond when they attend appointments.
 
All these local landmarks and more are featured on an embroidery which was unveiled yesterday at the ward entrance.
 
The embroidery project was conceived by Gerry O’Hare, an oncology nurse specialist, who has worked at the hospital for more than 20 years.
 
Gerry said: “We were kindly given donations from members of the public – requesting that the donation be spent on something to cheer up the ward environment in an artistic way. To get us moving along with ideas we pulled together a focus group, made up of patients and hospital staff.
 
“There are some beautiful landmarks in the local area and the overwhelming view from the group was that the artwork needed to feature these. So the idea of embroidery was born.
 
Gerry contacted the renowned textile designer Professor Malcolm Lochhead, who has worked on similar projects with Glasgow Cathedral and Maggie’s Centre.

Now complete, the 100cm x 60cm embroidery is proudly displayed in the Oncology Day Unit entrance.
 
Gerry said: “The unveiling was well attended by staff, patients, embroiderers and a whole host of other people who have all played a key role in ensuring this wonderful welcoming symbol will be on clear display for all to see.
 
“We were very lucky to get Malcolm on board with the project and he kindly developed a design based on feedback from the focus group.
 
“He then worked with the Strathendrick Embroidery Guild to start work on the embroidery. A lot of hard work has gone in to the project and we are delighted to now have it on display outside the ward.
 
“Patients and visitors to the ward can go through a lot and hopefully this plays a further part in making the ward a welcoming place where people can feel relaxed and spend time with the staff here.
 
“The embroidery is part of improvements in the patient environment in the haemato/oncology ward. We have also upholstered the patient and visitor chairs with maps of the local area and incorporated the maps into lightboxes scattered throughout the ward.”
 
Malcolm said: “I wanted a warm welcome that sings to people when they come to the ward. All health staff do a wonderful job and I wanted to make the environment on the ward a little warmer.
 
“I liked the idea of the embroidery representing a map of the Vale of Leven and we added further detail from photos and older images.
 
“The embroiderers were very skilful and we picked some of the really clever ideas for incorporating into the design and using them as a starting point.”
 

Driving their way to a greener, smilier future

Specialist dental nurses in Greater Glasgow and Clyde are gearing up to go green as they take their Childsmile message around the city.
 
The Childsmile teams, who travel around NHSGGC schools and nurseries to carry out their prevention work, have been participating in local awareness training in the use of the Childsmile’s new fleet of electric vans.
 
The Childsmile teams – who between them provided fluoride-varnish applications on an amazing 46,000 occasions last year – will soon be the proud drivers of all-electric vans, which allow them to transport their mobile dental equipment from school to school.
 
“The driving environment in an electric van is quite different to that of a manual van and of course there’s the charging element too,” said NHSGGC’s Interim Clinical Service Manager for Primary Care Dental Services, Susan Frew.
 
“Some of our staff seemed a bit anxious about it at first and I think they were worried about running out of charge. This awareness training has been great in putting their minds at ease and reinforcing the greener message, they now just can’t wait for the new vans to arrive.”
 
NHSGGC’s Corporate Transport Manager Paul Reid explained the environmental benefits. He said: “Once up-and-running, these new vans will have the benefit of being C02 emission free. Not only is that great for the staff and pupils, but for the city itself.
 
“We’ve also thought about safety and have had an engine noise ‘added’ to the vans to make them sound like normal vans that the children will hear,” added Paul.
 
Kerry McCafferty, an Extended Duties Dental Nurse in the team said: “It was great to learn about charging the vehicle and I even found out it is able to charge itself as it is driving along! Really clever and I can’t wait to get started. I am sure they will look great.”
 
 
For further information either telephone 0141 201 4429 or email press.office@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

The UK’s largest hospital - the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow - is glowing green until Sunday night in support of Organ Donor Week.
 
The law around organ donation in Scotland is changing in 2020. As a result all eligible adults may be considered as having agreed to donate their organs when they die unless they record a decision not to donate.
 
By lighting up the QEUH, the hope is that raising awareness will get people across Greater Glasgow and Clyde thinking about organ donation. The week is also encouraging people to record their organ donation decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register and let their family know about their decision.
 
Anne Harkness, South Sector director, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Organ Donation Week is a big chance to raise awareness and help people understand what is involved.
 
“We wanted to make a very visual statement and by lighting up the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital we can play a part in getting the message across and help focus people on the lives that can be saved through organ donation.
 
“Being able to donate organs and help people who desperately need transplants is one of the greatest accomplishments of modern medicine.”
 
Further details on organ donation are available from:  www.organdonationscotland.org/
 

Investigation into issues at RHCYP and QEUH
 
The Scottish Government has announced a Public Inquiry into the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People (NHS Lothian) and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital sites. Their release, together with a statement from our Chief Executive, follows.
 
Scottish Government release: Public inquiry into hospital sites
 
A public inquiry will be held to examine issues at the new Royal Hospital for Children and Young People (RHCYP) and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) sites following recent concerns from affected parents over safety and wellbeing.
 
The inquiry will determine how vital issues relating to ventilation and other key building systems occurred, and what steps can be taken to prevent this being repeated in future projects.
 
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “The safety and well-being of all patients and their families is my top priority and should be the primary consideration in all NHS construction projects.
 
“I want to make sure this is the case for all future projects, which is why, following calls from affected parents, I am announcing a public inquiry to examine the new Royal Hospital for Children and Young People and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital sites.
 
“The recent KPMG and NSS reports into the new Edinburgh Children’s Hospital will provide a significant amount of the underpinning evidence for the inquiry alongside the ongoing independent review into the delivery and maintenance of the QEUH.
 
“The current situation is not one anyone would choose – but it is one I am determined to resolve.”
 
Statement from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
 
Jane Grant, Chief Executive of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said:  “It is of utmost importance that our patients and their families have confidence in our services and that we are able to assure them that high standards of care are being provided within a suitable environment.
 
“Since the hospitals opened in 2015, we have taken a number of measures to improve the hospital environment for our most vulnerable patients and further action is underway.  
 
“Questions, however, have continued to be been raised about the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and the Royal Hospital for Children.
 
“We therefore will support the Public Inquiry announced today and will make a full contribution to this, in addition to the external and internal reviews of the hospital that are ongoing.”
 

Gas change brings environmental boost for NHSGGC

All hospitals administer anaesthetic gases during surgery and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, as Scotland’s largest Board uses more anaesthetic gases than most.
 
Which is why their switch from using Desflurane to Sevoflurane, its much lower carbon alternative, is great news for the environment while still doing the same job for patients.
 
Desflurane, releases 60 times more CO2 than Sevofurane, an alternative anaesthetic gas. In global warming terms too, Desflurane has a global warming potential (GWP) which is around 20 times higher than sevoflurane, and it also stays in the atmosphere for much longer -  almost 13 more years.
 
NHSGGC anaesthetists, concerned about the environmental impact of Desflurane, decided to do something about this and launched a Quality Improvement Project to promote the Sevoflurane as a safe alternative for most patients. Already the Board’s North Sector has seen a 75% reduction in Desflurane use a result and this change is now being replicated in the other sectors.
 
Dr Steven Young, Consultant Anaesthetist said ““This is a really significant environmental change, with a carbon dioxide equivalent reduction of 350 less cars commuting to the hospital every day. We have done this whilst maintaining high standards of anaesthetic care to our patients.”
 
A recent study, published in The Lancet Planetary Health journal, highlights the potential for reducing emissions in health care settings and, at the same time, potentially reducing costs. Emissions due to anaesthetic gases accounted for approximately 2,000 tonnes of CO2e at two North American sites – ten-fold higher than the anaesthetic gas emissions from the UK hospital. The authors say this is largely the result of a higher usage of desflurane in the two North American hospitals.
 
Dr Young added: “It has been estimated that five per cent of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions from acute hospitals are due to the use of inhalational agents. This is equivalent to around half the CO2 used to heat all hospital buildings and water.
 
“This is just one of the areas in which NHSGGC is driving forward a focus on sustainability and making a difference to its carbon footprint.”
 
ENDS
 
For further information either telephone 0141 201 4429 or email press.office@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

Research into Skin Collection of Blood Chemistry from Babies Seeks to Replace Invasive Blood Sampling

Scientists at the University of Strathclyde are researching a system to measure and monitor blood chemistry levels in premature and sick babies through their skin, which if successful, could eventually replace the need for invasive blood tests.
 
When babies are born early or sick there is a medical need to track levels of electrolytes such as glucose, lactate, sodium and potassium in their bodies, as the balance of these can be critical.
 
The levels are currently measured by heel stick blood tests or blood taken from a vein, which can be distressing and risk depleting the blood at the time when the infants in the neonatal intensive care unit are already vulnerable.
 
The University team is researching whether levels of glucose and lactate can instead be accurately collected through the skin. A clinical trial is in progress with the medical team at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.
 
If the technique is found to work, it will be transferred into a future medical device in the form of a wireless patch sensor that could be used for any sick baby.
 
Professor Patricia Connolly from Biomedical Engineering at Strathclyde, said: “At the moment, the blood chemistry on the babies is measured by taking a blood sample through a heel prick capillary or through a vein, which needs to be performed regularly.
 
“Our technology is aimed at removing the need for that because many of these molecules and ions will also come through the skin.
 
“Instead of actually having to take blood, our trial is using a skin patch that will collect glucose and lactate.
 
“We can collect the levels in a special type of gel electrode, and the levels are also compared to the level of glucose in the blood samples that are still being routinely taken by medical staff.
 
“Through our research we aim to show that what we take through the skin can be calibrated against what’s in the blood.
 
“If the trial confirms this, then it opens up the way for wearable devices to monitor these babies through the skin, without taking any blood or using a needle.
 
“The wearable system would also mean that parents won’t have the distress of watching their babies having blood sampled and would also minimise the amount of blood being taken at a time when they’re already challenged.”
 
Presently, babies who need to undergo frequent conventional sampling, often need blood transfusions every one to two weeks, particularly those who have been born pre-term and have lower blood volumes. The new system could help prevent this.
 
Any pain or distress caused by sampling in this way may have an effect on neurodevelopment - the brain's development of neurological pathways.
 
Project partner, consultant paediatrician Dr Neil Patel said: “The distress and pain of blood sampling in a newborn baby is not just short-term discomfort, but may cause long-term neurodevelopmental issues as well, which this approach could completely avoid.
 
“There is also a real risk of the need for blood transfusion for these babies due to the depletion of blood volumes. Some of the babies in the unit need to have blood samples taken four or more times every day. The sickest babies or those with unstable blood glucose results, may need to have samples taken even more frequently, sometimes every hour.
 
 “If the research results are good then this work could translate into a patch which would remove the need for conventional blood sampling for glucose and lactate.”
 
Fellow consultant paediatrician, Dr Helen McDevitt said: “If the outcomes of the hospital trial are positive, then it is hoped to plan for a future, wearable, wireless device.
 
“It’s in development as a laboratory prototype.”
 
The research team are using laboratory equipment to carry out the trial, but work has already begun on a miniaturised system which would work wirelessly.
 
The sensor should work by extracting the molecules and ions across the skin, detecting this flow and using Bluetooth to send the levels to a mobile phone device.
 
The patch, which is being designed to be placed on the baby’s stomach, would need changed every 24 hours, would measure in real time and take just 30 seconds for a reading.
 
The wearable, wireless devices would also make it easier for parents to take the babies out of their incubators and hold them, something that is known to help babies’ health.
 
The researchers say the finished product wouldn’t be expensive to manufacture and could lend itself to further use in challenged medical environments abroad where clinical access can be difficult.

To read more visit https://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/news/2019/09/skin-trials-at-rhc-nicu/
 
ENDS

Pic:  Mum Emma Campbell-Reid & baby son Orion who are taking part in the trial
 

ICONIC DESIGN OF NEW HEALTH CENTRE SHORTLISTED FOR NATIONAL AWARD
 
The new £17 million Gorbals Health and Care Centre, which opened its doors to the local community for the first time earlier this year, has been shortlisted for design award in this year’s national Health Facilities Scotland Awards.
 
The new Centre represents a significant investment in the regeneration of the Gorbals area and provides a wide range of benefits for the community it serves including four General Practices, one Dental Practice and other primary and community care services.
 
The new Centre was delivered as a partnership with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC), Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP), Glasgow City Council and Development Partner Hub West Scotland and New Gorbals Housing Association was also a key partner in the project
 
The Health Facilities Scotland Awards are intended to encourage and acknowledge professional excellence across the wide range of topics covered by facilities staff in NHS Scotland.
 
Tom Steele, Director of Facilities and Estates said:  “We are delighted that the new Gorbals Health and Care Centre has been shortlisted by NHS Health Facilities Scotland. 
 
“This projects has made a significant contribution to the local community and everyone involved in bringing the project together will be keeping their fingers crossed for a win!!”
 
ENDS

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Modern Apprentice of the Year awards event

Two siblings from Cambuslang are among 26 young people celebrating the successful completion of their Modern Apprenticeships after joining NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
 
Brother and sister, Gary and Melissa Beckett are both graduating this year from the Modern Apprenticeship programme and joined other apprentices at a special awards ceremony today to recognise the achievements of the latest batch of apprentice trainees to complete their apprenticeships.
 
The event also celebrated the success of some of our staff who have completed qualifications supported in-house.
 
Melissa, aged 24, has graduated in our Management Accounts team and brother Gary, aged 19, in the Institute of Neurological Sciences.
 
As well as graduating Melissa was declared Modern Apprentice of the Year at today’s ceremony for demonstrating consistently outstanding ability and commitment during her course.
 
She said: “I was so honoured to be nominated, so it’s brilliant to have actually won. It’s thanks to the great team I work with that I won as they’ve given me great support.
 
“I would also like to say well done to my brother who has worked just as hard to complete his apprenticeship.  I am really proud of us both.
 
“I’d definitely recommend MAs to other people. It has allowed me to learn on the job and see everything with my own eyes rather than just learning off a page in a book.
 
“I’d also like to say a special thanks to my manager Fiona McEwan and to all the management accounting team for all their help.” 
 
Scotland’s largest health board offers apprenticeships in a wide range of different job roles to help young people gain access to quality training opportunities in partnership with Glasgow Clyde College.
 
All apprentices signed up to a learning programme with on-the-job training roles including nursing assistants, radiotherapy assistants, healthcare support workers and administrators.

Jane Grant, Chief Executive, NHSGGC, said: “Today is about celebrating the achievements of our trainees and recognising the hard work, commitment and the enthusiasm with which they have approached their training, development and duties. 
 
“It is a great privilege for us to be able to support the development of careers for young people while providing the opportunity to put their talents to use in delivering a high standard of service for the benefit of our patients.
 
“We have the largest NHS MA programme in Scotland which offers opportunities to young people across hospital, community and corporate services. 
 
“I firmly believe that by investing time and training in our young people, we are building on an already highly skilled workforce.”
 
Anne MacPherson, Director of Human Resources & Organisational Development, NHSGGC said: “The MA programme is an excellent example of the investment progressive employers can make to transform the lives of young people in our communities.
 
“This has been another exceptional year in the standard of commitment and enthusiasm from our MAs and it was extremely difficult to choose from the finalists that were presented to us.”
 
ENDS
 

Nursing career beckons for “terrific” Terri
 
A former factory worker is on her way to a nursing career, after landing a ‘life-changing’ apprenticeship with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
 
Terri Brown (28), from Motherwell successfully completed a Modern Apprenticeship – despite finding out she was pregnant on her second day!
 
Six years down the line she’s just begun a four-year Open University Nursing degree course.
 
Terri said: “Yes I managed to complete my apprenticeship in Social Services, Children and Young People on time – despite having my maternity leave in the middle! My wee boy is five now and I’m just starting my degree course, which is both scary and exciting at the same time.
 
“After my apprenticeship I am now a Family Support Worker, based in Baillieston Health Centre. I work with the health visiting team and provide parenting skills, baby massage as well as assisting family access benefits etc.
 
“I am so glad I applied for the apprenticeship; it’s been life-changing. Six years ago I was working in a factory to get extra money and would never have dreamt I could have been a nurse. Two years ago I got a new team leader and she totally believes in me. It’s her that’s given me the confidence to apply for the OU course – she urged me to apply.
 
“My apprenticeship has given me an insight to the nursing profession and opened doors for me. Working as part of the Health Visiting Team has helped me grow and develop my knowledge and skills.”
 
Terri will now juggle her job, study and of course being mum to five-year-old Charlie.
 
She said: “NHSGGC is giving me a half day a week to help me complete my uni work. And of course there will be placements which will be in Shettleston Health Centre, in a hospital ward and also a spell with the district nurses. There is so much work to do but I also really excited about the future.”
 
Team Leader Karen McDonald said: “Terri is a terrific member of my team and I believe she is a real inspiration to young people striving to change and make their mark on the world. 
 
“She has shown such courage and determination to advance in her career within NHSGGC.  I am delighted that she has chosen the OU option, as she will remain in our team for a further four years, and we can continue to support and provide her with guidance as she progresses with her Nursing degree.”
 
NHSGGC’s Modern Apprenticeship programme offers an excellent starting point for a long term NHS career - both clinical and non-clinical roles.  Many apprentices – like Terri – are supported to undertake higher education programmes to support career progression. There are also opportunities to work while studying to degree level in the Modern Apprentice graduate programmes in Finance, Medical Laboratories and Estates.

ENDS
 
For more information contact: NHSGGC press office on 0141 201 4429 or press.office@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
 
 

Royal Hospital for Children team receives praise for
exceptional care for newborns

A specialist neonatal team at the Royal Hospital for Children has been recognised for the exceptional care of new-born premature babies.
 
Members of the Get Set team at the RHC, led by Dr Anne Marie Heuchan, won the ‘Improving quality of perinatal care’ category in the British Association of Perinatal Medicine (BAPM) awards in Newcastle.
 
The Get Set team was set up with the aim of improving the temperatures and care of babies in the delivery suite immediately after pre-term birth.
 
“In 2016, just over 30% of the very pre-term babies admitted to neonatal intensive care had temperature of below 36.5 degrees on arrival. While this was in keeping with the national average, we put in a number of measure to improve care immediately following birth,” said Dr Heuchan.
 
“Myself and a colleague Dr O’Shea, brought together a group of neonatal, medical, nursing and midwifery staff who were passionate about improving neonatal care. We established a multi-disciplinary Get Set team, to look at Saturatioin, EcG and Temperature during stabilisation.
“The team introduced a variety of additional measures, allowing the most  preterm babies to be stabilised whilst still connected to the umbilical cord, kept warm and also  cuddled by mum before moving to the Neonatal intensive care unit.
 
“I was delighted to receive the award on behalf of the team and we were all pleased to have been recognised in this way.”
 
Kevin Hill, NHSGGC’s Director of Women and Children said: “This is yet another example of how the hard-working and dedicated teams within the Children’s Hospital are constantly striving to improve outcome for our patients. I am very proud of their achievements – well done to the Get Set Team!”
 
ENDS
 
For more information contact: NHSGGC press office on 0141 201 4429 or press.office@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
 

A suite of four new theatres, which will revolutionise the future of adult neurosurgery and oral maxillofacial surgery in Glasgow, have been given the green light after the successful commissioning and validation of the mechanical and electrical systems.
 
This follows the completion of further technical work by the University of Glasgow, who commissioned the theatres as part of the University’s world-leading imaging clinical research ICE building.
 
The £7million theatres within the Imaging Centre for Excellence will now undergo final clinical commissioning and equipment fit out.
 
Surgical procedures on adult patients in these state-of-the-art theatres are planned to begin in November with the four new theatres being complemented by two existing theatres in the neurosciences building.
 
The ICE building brings together world-leading research, cutting edge technology and international business investment and is a collaboration between the University of Glasgow, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, the Medical Research Council and Glasgow City Region City Deal.  The opening of these new theatres can also allow the latest neurosurgical procedures to be considered and add to the facility’s reputation as a global centre for excellence.
 
Dr Scott Davidson, Deputy Medical Director Acute, NHSGGC, said:  “The opening of these new theatres is a further example of how close collaboration between academic research and healthcare can provide cutting edge facilities to benefit patients across Scotland.
 
“The University’s Imaging Centre of Excellence has provided us the opportunity to develop four state-of-the-art theatres which will now be utilised by the Departments of Neurosurgery and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery. 
 
“With the existing two theatres in the neurosciences building we are confident this will provide us with some of the most modern surgical facilities across the world with approximately 6,350 neurosurgery and oral maxillofacial patients receiving their surgery on the QEUH campus per year.
 
 “We recognise that there has been a delay to the opening of this facility but NHSGGC has supported the University of Glasgow to ensure that they deliver theatres of the highest standard.”
 
Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, Vice Principal and Head of the College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences at the University of Glasgow said:  ‘These new facilities are of the highest standard and will provide some of the best patient care in neurosurgery and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery to be seen anywhere in the UK.
 
“We look forward to working closely with colleagues at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde in delivering in these key areas for patients and their families.”

ENDS

ANOTHER RECORD NUMBER OF NEW NURSE RECRUITS JOIN THE TEAM

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have just recruited a record breaking 450 newly qualified nurse graduates from Scottish and English universities.
 
The vast majority of the newly qualified graduates are joining the Board from West of Scotland based universities with the remainder coming from other Scottish universities and England.
 
The new recruits will provide nursing support across Greater Glasgow and Clyde including Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, The Vale of Leven Hospital and Inverclyde Royal Hospital.
 
Commenting on this hugely successful recruitment drive Nurse Director Dr Margaret McGuire said it was “incredibly encouraging that NHSGGC continues to be seen by graduates as a desirable employer where they can grow their careers”.
 
The 450 new recruits will join the board’s existing 12,300 qualified nurses to deliver patient centred care to more than a million people both in hospitals and in the community.
 
Dr McGuire added: “As a Board, we value our staff and it is always a great privilege for us to be able to support the development of newly qualified nurses. We are perfectly placed to give them a wide range of opportunities to put their talents to use in delivering high standards of care for our patients and communities.
 
“I firmly believe that by recruiting such a high number of graduate nurses and continuing their learning and development we are building on an already highly skilled workforce and importantly we are ensuring high quality care for our patients.”
 
“We are never complacent about recruitment and work hard to support and encourage motivated people to come and work with us. Our staff delivered a dynamic and engaging recruitment programme that attracted so many nurses to choose us as the place to develop their skills and deliver professional and compassionate care to our patients. 
 
“Human Resources and nursing teams met with graduates at the stage prior to exams when they were starting to plan a nursing career after University. This meant that the worry of where to go next was taken out of the equation allowing focusing on finishing courses. NHSGGC teams met with students on campus and outlined the strengths of NHSGGC as an employer and as a positive environment to start their nursing career.”

ENDS

A new Dawn in Spiritual Care for NHSGGC

Jobs don’t get more unique than being a healthcare chaplain, especially in one the size of a small town - but Dawn Allan with her rich and varied background is ready to take on this exciting new challenge.

From growing up in Apartheid South Africa to working in diverse communities from Brighton to Shetland, Dawn brings a wealth of experience to her spiritual care role.

“Firstly it’s not all about God. I am a Christian but am here to offer whatever spiritual help patients and staff are looking for,” said Dawn.

“Essentially, spiritual care is whatever a person wants it to be. Our aim is to always put the patient’s needs first before our own.”

Dawn’s main role within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is to lead the Spiritual Care Team who represent different faith groups to develop and grow the Spiritual Care Service.

Dawn said:  “Across NHSGGC we currently have 12 different healthcare chaplains involved in helping develop spiritual care which is integral to physical and mental health needs.  Some have specialist training or an interest and experience in areas like mental health, palliative care or paediatrics. 

“Communication is key to all relationships and it helps if the Spiritual Care team leads by example and is open and transparent with everyone, especially with patients.  It’s vital that we are approachable and able to explain what spiritual care is and offer it in a way which makes sense to everyone.”

Dawn very much believes that the role of a healthcare chaplain isn’t to tell people what they need, but to be available and to offer spiritual care and support for anyone seeking it.

“This can take many forms: religious or pastoral or something as simple as reading to someone or listening to them. We know people can find it difficult to discuss some subjects with family members and we are here to listen and offer support or signpost someone without condemnation or judgement.

“We can also provide access to a variety of faith leaders and humanists for anyone, but it’s also important people realise that they don’t have to be religious to speak with our chaplains. This is inclusive for everyone and they know they can make use of our quiet spaces, when they need to, without having to be a ‘card carrying’ religious person!
“Bereavement and loss is obviously a big part of my job and I’m keen to ensure we help as many people as possible access appropriate bereavement information and to know how to access care and support in our local communities when a loved one has died.”

The Spiritual Care Team is well placed to signpost staff, patients and their loved ones to NHS GGC colleagues across a variety of disciplines and departments to ensure everyone receives appropriate care when they need it.

Spiritual Care is a person-centred service and the spiritual care team are able to respond to a referral to see someone within 24 – 48 hours. Healthcare Chaplaincy became a registered profession in 2017 and healthcare chaplains are accountable to the Professional Standards Authority. The NHSGGC Spiritual Care Team aim to be registered members of the UK Board of Healthcare Chaplains.

Dawn added: “This is a very exciting role and I look forward to getting to know staff and patients across all our hospitals as the Spiritual Care service develops and moves forward into the 21^st Century.”

ENDS

A new intake of 56 paediatric nurses has joined the team at the Royal Hospital for Children (RHC). 
 
The new recruits have recently graduated and at a special induction day joined another 450 newly qualified nurses due to start work in acute hospitals.  This brings the total number of new nursing recruits across Greater Glasgow and Clyde to 506. 
 
Dr Margaret McGuire, NHSGGC's Nurse Director said: “We are delighted to welcome these 56 new paediatric nurses to our staff at the RHC. 
 
“As a Board, it is always a great privilege for us to be able to support the development of newly qualified nurses. We are perfectly placed to give them a wide range of opportunities to put their talents to use in delivering high standards of care for our patients and communities.
 
“I firmly believe that by recruiting such a high number of graduate nurses, and continuing their learning and development, we are building on an already highly skilled workforce and ultimately ensuring high quality care for our patients.
 
“Having just qualified they have all spent a number of weeks going through our rigorous induction programme and are now join their colleagues on the job.
 
“I wish them all well and hope that working with us is both fulfilling and rewarding.”
  
ENDS

Please use NHSGGC services appropriately - this weekend and beyond

 
It’s the Glasgow September – and many of us are looking forward to a well-earned rest.
 
But if your weekend doesn’t go to plan and you end up feeling ill, health experts are asking you to use your health services wisely at this busy time.
 
Unfortunately, some patients are misusing precious NHS resources by regularly attending Emergency Departments (EDs) with minor illness or injury.
 
Medics have identified a list of the Top Ten illnesses that do not require a trip to ED. Instead, patients should seek advice or treatment from either NHS Inform, their local Pharmacist, optometrist, Dentist, NHS 24 or their GP/ Out of hours GP.
 
The top ten includes:

• Cold symptoms, Nasal congestion or a simple sore throat
• Skin complaints such as Acne, Eczema or Athlete’s foot
• Cold sores, Warts or verrucae
• Period pain
• Earache
• Haemorrhoids (piles)
• Hay fever or mild allergies
• Head lice / scabies
• Mouth ulcers/Dental pain
• Thrush

 
Alastair Ireland, Emergency Department Clinical Director at Glasgow Royal Infirmary said: “We are all aware of what a precious resource our NHS is and we need to use it wisely.
 
“Those with serious or life-threatening illness and injuries will always be given priority, meaning those with less serious issues may face longer waits. We really need patients to carefully consider the best place to be if they are unwell, in order that those who really need hospital care can receive it.
 
“We’ve come up with a list to give patients some guidance on when it’s correct to seek emergency treatment and when it’s not. Hopefully it means that they seek advice from the correct place, meaning they are treated quicker elsewhere, allowing us to concentrate on what we should be treating – real emergencies.”
 
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is in the fortunate position of having dedicated, nurse-led Minor Injury Units (MIUs) at Stobhill, the New Victoria and Vale of Leven Hospitals, where 100% of patients are usually seen and treated within four hours.
 
MIUs can treat cuts and grazes, insect bites, minor burns, sprains and strains, limb injuries like a broken ankle, broken wrist etc and foreign bodies in ears or up noses. 

However, they are unable to treat more serious conditions such as major injuries, poisoning, fever, breathing difficulties stomach pains, vomiting or diarrhoea, rashes or allergic reactions.
 
There are four adult Emergency Departments within Greater Glasgow and Clyde – at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley and Inverclyde Royal Hospital in Greenock. All adult ED departments also have facilities to treat minor injuries but patients will always be seen quicker at the stand-alone MIUs.
 
ENDS
 
For further information either telephone 0141 201 4429 or email press.office@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

NHSGGC supports more pregnant smokers to quit
 
NHSGGC has seen a dramatic rise in the number of expectant mums successfully giving up smoking, with the help of an incentive scheme.
 
In July 2018, NHSGGC introduced a financial incentives scheme as part of its Quit Your Way (QYW) pregnancy service. In its first year, it has helped 117 women to remain smoke-free for 12 weeks, a rise of 72% on the year before.
 
It is estimated that each year in the UK smoking in pregnancy causes up to 5,000 miscarriages, 300 perinatal deaths and around 2,200 premature births. Because of this, the Board has made it a priority to help pregnant women to stop smoking.
 
NHSGGC Director of Public Health Dr Linda de Caestecker said: “We are delighted to see early success with the incentives programme. Stopping smoking during pregnancy is one of the best things to do for the health of the mother and her baby.”
 
“The incentives scheme came about because we were seeing that many pregnant women were struggling to quit smoking and we felt a fresh approach and additional support was needed.
 
“Figures show that most people who still smoke are from poorer backgrounds, so these financial incentives really do make a difference to women who are trying to quit.”
Women who successfully participate in the programme can receive up to a £160 to spend at various outlets using a Love2Shop card.  For those who are eligible, the payments are made in four stages; £20 for setting a quit date, £40 for remaining smoke-free four weeks after their quit date, £40 for remaining smoke-free 12 weeks after their quit date and a final payment of £60 for those who complete the programme smoke-free. Their quit is confirmed by measuring carbon monoxide levels using a breath test.
 
Brenda Friel, who leads the programme, is delighted with the initial success and said: “women we support really appreciate receiving the incentives and the difference they can make. This allows them to buy important things for their baby and for their family.”
 
“Many told us they didn’t think they would be able to stop smoking. Getting the support from the Quit Your Way Pregnancy Service advisor and receiving the incentives gave them extra encouragement and confidence to stop smoking and stay stopped.”
 
If you are pregnant and want help to stop smoking, call 0141 201 2335 for more information or for a chat with one of our specialist advisors. You can also text ‘Quit’ to 07796 937 679 and one of our advisors will get in touch.
 
Further information on the Quit Your Way service is available from www.nhsggc.org.uk/Quityourway
 
ENDS
 
Notes to editors:
To be eligible for the incentives programme, pregnant women have to be a current smoker, which will be validated by carbon monoxide breath test; need to live in and receive their antenatal care with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Board area.
 
For more information contact: NHSGGC press office on 0141 201 4429 or press.office@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
 
 

Car Park Closure, Prospecthill Road, Glasgow – 11^th October

The Prospecthill Road car park will close to staff, patients and visitors at 8am on 11 October 2019.  Agreement has been reached to sell the site to Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association.

Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association will work in partnership with Glasgow City Council Development & Regeneration Services to provide high quality, affordable homes on the site to meet local housing need and demand.

NHSGGC launches 'zimmer amnesty'

Scotland’s largest health board is encouraging people to return unused zimmers, crutches and walking sticks as part of a drive to cut its carbon footprint while saving money.
 
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is looking to cut down on nearly-new walking aids being left unused in peoples’ homes or thrown away instead of being  reused or recycled.
 
In the financial year 2018/19, the Board issued around £220,000 worth of walking aids including approximately:

• 11,000 crutches at a cost of £6.67 per pair
• 9,000 zimmers costing of £13.75 each
• 6,000 walking sticks at a cost of £2.60 each

Allan Dodds, Allied Health Professional Orthopaedics team lead, NHSGGC, said: “We’re very aware that perfectly good equipment which could help other people is cluttering up peoples’ homes. 
 
“We’re appealing for people to return their unused walking aids to any of our hospitals.
 
“We have teamed up with Haven Recycle, a local company which cleans and tests the almost new aids for us to ensure they are ready for someone else to use.
 
“This not only saves the NHS and taxpayers’ money which can be reinvested into patient care, it also supports our commitment to be an environmentally friendly organisation and encourage others to reduce their carbon footprint.”
 
ENDS

Children at the Royal Hospital for Children (RHC) in Glasgow who are about to be anaesthetised can take their pick of a range of toys and books from Buzz Lightyear to a ‘Where’s Wally’ book in the anaesthetic room.
 
This is thanks to an initiative to improve the theatres experience for children and their families at the RHC by looking at ways of coming to theatres more interactive, immersive, calming and fun.
 
To start this journey of improvement toy boxes have been introduced into each anaesthetic room.  These contain a range of toys and books which children can play with in the anaesthetic room before going into theatre.  This welcome distraction can make the theatres experience less stressful.
 
The Theatres Improvement Initiative was introduced over the summer by Consultant Paediatric Anaesthetist Alyson Walker who in her role as anaesthetist makes it her priority to minimise the stress of the child and their parents or carers.
 
“Coming in for an operation or procedure can be a stressful time for children and their family.  Staff are very mindful of this and we try our very best to create a welcoming calm and fun environment.” says Alyson.
 
The toys range from Buzz Lightyear figures and Rubik Cubes to ‘Where’s Wally’ books and toy animals. 

Alyson added:  "“We worked closely with Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity who very kindly agreed to fund the boxes and we are already seeing a difference.  Several parents, children and staff have commented that such a simple thing can provide just the distraction a child needs to help them go off to sleep calmly."

To read more visit https://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/media-centre/news/2019/10/anaesthetic-boxes/
 
ENDS