NNUH Jenny Lind Paediatrics Theatres Complex celebrates first birthday
Today the 170-year-old Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital at NNUH celebrates the first anniversary of its paediatric theatres complex.
Over the past year the team has carried out a wide range of complex procedures including:
- Oesophageal and bowel reconstructions in newborn babies
- Major hip joint repairs in children with cerebral palsy
- Kidney drainage procedures using keyhole surgery
The plastics team have also performed some intricate cases such as forming thumbs out of fingers, a procedure known as pollicisation.
Some of the more frequent, less complex cases include:
- 190 tooth extractions
- 120 Tonsillectomies
The team have also managed to squeeze in an extra 100 emergency cases.
The JLTC staff have worked hard to increase use of the theatres and in December exceeded the national 85% utilisation target with over 80% of cases achieved as day cases.
“This is a reflection of the hard work and efforts put in by the team – it is a fantastic way to end our first year,” said Clinical Lead Caroline Banson.
And in feedback gathered from patients and their families, staff have been praised for creating a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of laughter. One patient praised the staff for “making me laugh” and another for “helping me feel comfortable and safe.”
Parents were equally positive with feedback received saying: “Everyone was kind and friendly. Made myself and my child feel at ease.”
Caroline added: “I can’t believe it is already a year. We have been very busy and it is such a pleasant environment to be in. It is pleasing to see so many patients have had a positive experience with us, and it could not have been achieved without my wonderful team, so thankyou team JLTH.”
Consultant paediatric surgeon Richard England added: “One of the major benefits of the new paediatric theatres is the joined-up teamwork with the ward nurses and play specialists. Our patients with additional behavioural needs often find the journey to theatre distressing but being able to keep them calm with play therapy is so beneficial. Over the last few years the autism team have also developed special care plans with families so we know more about the likes and dislikes of our young patients. The shorter trip to theatre also helps a lot as it just passes through the Children’s Hospital area, not into the adult environment. This pre-operative planning translates into a less stressed patient and aids quicker recovery. Our patients are soon going home after their procedures and may be less frightened about visiting the Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital again in the future.”
The complex consists of a twin paediatric theatre suite, a recovery unit and associated staff and patient supporting facilities. Part of a £160,000 N&N Hospitals Charity grant went towards engaging artwork by Norfolk artist Toby Rampton and Norfolk storyteller Amanda Smith, who has provided a narrative to run alongside the artwork.
Sustainability is also high on the agenda with Consultant Paediatric Anaesthetist Dr Amy Greengrass leading the way. The team will be continuing with waste segregation to reduce emissions from waste and aim to use cylinders of nitrous oxide (gas and air) to avoid leakages and waste of a potent greenhouse gas known to be associated with piped nitrous oxide.
NNUH Medical Director Dr Bernard Brett, said: “It is fantastic to be celebrating the first birthday of our paediatric theatre complex and it is incredible to have more than a 40% increase in productivity since the new theatres opened. The team and the environment have more than delivered. It is really heart-warming to hear of the positive experiences our patients, parents and carers have had. Well done to everyone involved in designing, and building the complex and to our clinical teams for offering such superb patient-focused care.”