Local nurse wins award for helping patients

Moira Burgham, orthopaedic specialist nurse atBUPA Cambridge Lea Hospital, has won an award for her work in preparingpatients for their time in hospital.   Moira recognises that cominginto hospital can be stressful.  She has introduced a multi-sensoryinformation pack aimed at familiarising patients with the hospital and in turnreducing any stress and anxiety often associated with coming into hospital fortreatment or surgery.

Moiras efforts have been rewarded as she wona BUPA IDEA Award.  BUPA encourages staff across all parts of its businessto submit IDEAS that will improve either the service offered to customers,operating efficiency or the working environment.  IDEAS stands for:Identifying and Developing Employees Alternative Suggestions.

Moira sees all orthopaedic patients aroundthree weeks prior to their admission for joint replacement surgery.  Thispre-assessment visit gives the patient the opportunity to visit the hospital,meet some of the staff who will be involved in their care and discuss anyanxieties they may have about their surgery.

During this assessment, pre-operative testsare carried out.  Moira also explains to patients what will happen to thembefore surgery, during their hospital stay and after they go home so they knowexactly what to expect.

Moira won the award for introducing aphotographs and computer images to this pre-assessment visit.  She alsoshows patients some of the equipment that will be used during surgery includingthe replacement joint. 

Mette Vognsen, matron at BUPA Cambridge Leahospital explains:  Patients have really welcomed Moiras help andreassurance about their time in hospital.  Perhaps most valuable topatients is the detail they learn about accelerating their recovery followingsurgery.

Moiras IDEA was one of just 20 chosen forrecognition from around 500 implemented across BUPA.  Val Gooding, BUPAchief executive, presented the award at a celebration lunch in London.

Her idea has also been submitted for anexternal "Ideas of the Year" award where the best BUPA ideas are upagainst the best ideas from other private and public organisations.  This event is organised by IDEAS UK.

-ENDS-

For further information please contact:

Wilma Smith

Marketing Manager

BUPA Cambridge Lea Hospital

01223 266965