6 September 2024
Transforming patient care in the Surgical Preassessment Unit
Thanks to the generous support of Southampton Hospitals Charity, the Surgical Preassessment Unit has undergone key improvements, enhancing patient care and staff efficiency.
Hannah Spencer, Lead Nurse Practitioner said, “Funding from the hospital charity has enabled the purchase of a new phlebotomy chair, ceiling light, and stool, significantly improving the service we provide. Patients now experience a streamlined “one-stop” service for blood tests during their preassessment, eliminating the need to visit a separate department. This change has not only improved patient flow but also freed up an additional clinic room, allowing more patients to be seen each day.
HCA’s on the unit have also been trained to perform phlebotomy, giving them more variety in their working day and job satisfaction. They have all been paramount to the opening and success of this service.”
Since June, around 860 patients have had their blood taken on-site, reducing pressure on the main phlebotomy department, and freeing up appointments for others. The new equipment, particularly the phlebotomy chair, has provided a more comfortable experience for both patients and staff, improving overall service quality.