Staff at a Newcastle hospital ward have been awarded a “Healthwatch Star” reflecting the care and attention given to their patients.
The Star certificate was presented to Ward 20 at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary by Healthwatch Newcastle, the health and social care watchdog whose job is to protect the rights of patients and hold public services to account.
Ward 20 is an ophthalmology ward for adults who require eye surgery. The staff on Ward 20 also provide care for patients who have trauma from the neck upwards including maxillofacial surgery. The ward is widely regarded as one of the best ophthalmology and maxillofacial centres in the country.
One patient so appreciated the care that they contacted Healthwatch Newcastle to nominate staff for a Healthwatch Star award. The award was given for “having staff who were really good at explaining every step.”
Steph Eduesi, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Newcastle, said:
“We hear a lot of positive comments about health and social care services when we speak to people in Newcastle. It is only right to recognise the contribution that individuals and organisations make to the success of these services in our city. When people are in hospital it is so important that they are given the right information about their treatment and Ward 20 has clearly demonstrated that staff have kept this patient fully updated.
“I’m especially pleased that this award has been presented just as we learn that the services at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust were inspected by the Care Quality Commission and rated as outstanding.”
Sister Caroline Dunn was delighted that the ward had been recognised:
“It’s so nice that one of our patients took the time to nominate us. We are very proud to hang the certificate in the ward for all to see.”
Senior Sister Julie Mulroy agreed. “Getting recognition for doing our job is really appreciated. We explain to every patient exactly what their treatment plan is so that they can be reassured that they are receiving the very best care during their time with us.”
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Photo shows: Senior Sister Julie Mulroy (left) and Sister Caroline Dunn (right) with Ward 20 staff