The DME Effect moves through the BGH one step at a time

It's been all go in our Department of Medicine for the Elderly (DME) wards in the BGH. Over the past few months extensive work has taken place to improve the overall experience for our elderly patients whilst they in our care within the hospital.  

The most recent piece of work that has taken place is the official renaming of our two DME wards.  The DME Ward (also known as Ward 10) will become Ward 14 DME and Ward 12 will become Ward 12 DME with effect from Monday 2nd April. The change aims to resolve any confusion since the introduction of two DME Wards within the BGH.

This change follows a host of exciting projects and activities that have been taking place within the two wards to enhance patient experience.

Our DME teams have been, and continue to, work hard to combat PJParalysis by encouraging patients to get dressed in their own clothes, which promotes mobility, dignity and independence. Working with our Allied Health Professional colleagues the team has implemented an Activity Prescription chart for all patients to encourage continuous therapy seven days a week.

Staff have undergone training in how to relieve Stress and Distress so they now have the skills to de-escalate situations and use distraction methods, should patients become distressed. There are now regular ward visits from Therapets who help promote wellbeing amongst our patients too.

Therapets aren’t the only visitors to the wards; back in October and December Hawick's Golden Girls stopped by for a sing-song. The collective of 11 singers gave a lively sing-along session of Scottish and Irish songs and Golden Girl Margaret Casson read a selection of light-hearted poems. 

Afterwards there was a tea party with delicious scones, sweet treats and sandwiches from our Catering Department. Both visits were enjoyed by patients and staff.

Ali Forster, Senior Charge Nurse of Ward 12 DME, said: "The idea is to create some stimulation for our patients and de-escalate stress and distress. This improves their experience whilst in hospital and can help them return to health sooner and reduce the length of their hospital stay."

Judith Tait-Brown, Senior Charge Nurse of Ward 14 DME, added: "The ethos of the DME Effect is to improve the patient experience and end PJParalysis. By introducing social and physical activity we reduce pyjama (bed) time and promote healthier muscles. We all need a reason to get out of bed and it's no different for elderly patients. Increased activity promotes wellness, reduces muscle wastage and improves wellbeing which enhances recovery rates and gets patients home sooner; the social activities aim to do just that."

Future plans to expand this really positive work includes the introduction of tables and chairs to encourage mobility and social interaction between patients at meal times. There are also environmental changes planned such as moving the glass door at Ward 14 DME across the main corridor to create space for a quiet 'wander zone' within the department.