UHNM opens newly relocated Urology Ambulatory Unit at Royal Stoke
Patients at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) needing treatment for kidney stones, urinary infections, prostate problems or urological cancers are set to benefit from a newly relocated unit that makes specialist care quicker and easier.
The nurse-led unit Urology Ambulatory Unit (UAU) at the Royal Stoke University Hospital supports patients who are well enough to remain mobile and do not require an inpatient bed.
By bringing patients directly to specialist staff in a dedicated space close to the main wards, the UAU helps people receive timely assessments, treatments and follow-up without the need for an overnight stay.
The move not only improves the patient experience but will also up much-needed beds during the busy winter period improving patient flow across UHNM.
Kay Willard, lead urology nurse and lead advanced clinical practitioner, said: “The UAU is for patients who don’t need a hospital bed but still need fast, specialist urology care. By seeing people in a dedicated space, we can treat them quickly and safely while freeing up beds on the wards.
“Instead of patients waiting in a bed for a specialist to visit them, they now come directly to our team. It reduces delays and means they get the right care straightaway.
“Launched in 2016, the service has grown from a team of four to almost 34 posts, supporting patients with everything from urological cancers to kidney stones and chronic urinary problems. Our new and more accessible location brings our whole urology team together with consultants and the Central Treatment Suite (CTS), creating the joined-up working the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) programme champions.”
“The space also allows experienced and newer staff to work side by side, helping us build a strong, sustainable workforce. I’m incredibly grateful to our managerial colleagues who made the move possible, their support has helped us create a unit we’re proud of.”
Tracy Harrison, senior sister, said: “Patients immediately comment on how bright, spacious and welcoming the new unit is. This bright, spacious environment gives us the opportunity to grow, innovate and continue improving outcomes for our patients.”
One of the first patients to benefit from the new unit was James Winning, who was diagnosed with a rare penile cancer more than 15 years ago. James, a former chauffeur from Cheadle, now attends the Unit each month to have his catheter changed.
James said: “The care has always been brilliant, but this new unit is even better. It’s larger, easier to get to, has better facilities and the staff are second to none. They’re a fantastic bunch of people and so organised. I actually enjoy going there.”
David Jinks, directorate manager for general surgery, said: “We’re extremely proud of the team, and while we’ve moved out of the original ward location, what we’ve gained is a co-located, modern, collaborative space which is hugely beneficial to both patients and the team.”