We are Listening - to Carers and Relatives

Fiona

“Theatre buddy” was introduced at Wishaw General Hospital in June 2017, with the aim of enabling carers to support their loved one if they require a surgical procedure.

Carers are able to accompany their loved one to theatre and stay with them right up until they receive anaesthesia and “go to sleep”; they can then meet them in the recovery room immediately after surgery.

Yvonne Jeffrey with her mum, Mary, and Corinne Barrett, trauma Liaison Nurse Practitioner

A new ‘Theatre Buddy’ trolley has also been introduced. This contains items that can help people with dementia to keep calm. Things like stress balls and twiddle muffs. We also have iPods with songs from their favourite era and a theatre purse if they would like to take small precious objects, like jewellery, with them into the theatre.

 

This approach is proven to be beneficial for both patients and carers alike; reducing confusion, upset and isolation for patients whilst carers are less anxious. This initiative is hugely beneficial during the post-recovery period which can be very confusing and disorientating for any patient. Enabling carers or relatives to provide support during this period is hugely beneficial for all. 

Yvonne said: “I was so glad I could be there for my mum thanks to this wonderful initiative. My experience of being a theatre buddy was excellent and I would recommend this to anyone to help make the journey easier for their loved one.

If you have an experience of NHS Lanarkshire Services you would like to share, please speak to a member of staff, respond here on Care Opinion, or visit the “Your Feedback” Section of the NHS Lanarkshire website to see the other ways to get in touch www.nhslanarkshire.org.uk