Manx hospital ward changes 'more sensitive' to pregnancy issues
Senior Sister for the GAU Jody Brannon said the changes had seen the creation of an early pregnancy assessment unit "to support families" during "profoundly difficult times".The new Bluebell Suite, which aims to provide a safe space for delivering both good and bad news, has also been developed.Ms Brannon said the space was "a bit of a comfort room rather than a clinical room" and helped to make the service "more confidential".
'Right care at the right time'
While the additional spaces have been opened near to the existing women and children's unit, a separate entrance was now used for access. There was also new nursing staff dedicated to the area, and with the planned introduction of follow-up services "in a couple of weeks time", the changes were "improving the service massively", Ms Brannon said.Head of midwifery Regan Baggley said it was clear from the feedback that people "wanted us to concentrate on early pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and gynaecological conditions".She said the ward changes in gynaecology "ensures that women and their families are receiving the right care at the right time, in the right place and by the right professionals".
Other changes have also been introduced on ward four, where a new location for stroke care is being developed to include rehabilitation services.The ward was converted to accommodate other services during the coronavirus pandemic and has not reverted back.Being relocated on the ground floor meant there was "direct access to an outside space that will enhance their overall recovery and wellbeing", Ms Baggley explained.She said further changes planned in the autumn include creating a combined surgical and gynaecology unit within wards seven and eight.That would join the surgical wards, which were separated at the start of the pandemic, she added.
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"I've looked after heroin addicts and after 20 years of them using heroin, they don't have anything related to the harm that we've got now for the ketamine users, only after a very short time. "And I think that's what's been so shocking about seeing these ketamine users come through. They can use ketamine for 10 months, two years, and have life-changing injuries. "That's why we're fighting for this. I think that we have all been very slow to react as a nation to these health concerns." Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@ in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.
