Tullamore Hospital Launch New Patient Information Booklet
The Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore (MRHT) as part of their patient experience improvement plan have launched a new patient information booklet. This new resource for patients, aims to empower patients, allowing them to take a greater part in their health and healthcare while in a hospital setting.
Being admitted to hospital can often be a very anxious time, which often brings about many questions from patients and their families. There can be a lot of information to take in from staff members, and at times this can be overwhelming. This new patient information booklet serves as a reminder and includes general information, information about hospital facilities, your admission and property, hospital meals, details on services and supports, information on medication, tips for looking after yourself in hospital and discharge information.
Clare Conway, Quality and Patient Safety Manager, MRHT said “We know that being admitted to hospital can be a difficult and worrying time for patients and their loved ones. This new booklet aims to give patients and families information that will help them during their stay. We have developed this booklet in collaboration with our patients and staff to provide them with some reassurance around what to expect while they are in hospital and what arrangements they can make with us, friends and family to ensure their safety and comfort when they leave hospital.”
Louisea Burke, Director of Nursing MRHT comments, “During a hospital stay, patients are usually given a lot of information on their health conditions, but they may be less informed about their hospital stay and how they can get the best out of it. This patient booklet, will allow patients and families to be actively involved in their care, medication management and discharge planning. By educating patients, we are empowering them with the knowledge, understanding, skills and confidence to take an active role in their health and wellbeing. Appropriate information sharing is an essential part of the provision of safe and effective care.”
This initiative was led by the Quality and Patient Safety Department in MRHT with input sought from all relevant stakeholders before publication. Authors of the booklet are Tina Connaughton, Patient Safety Officer, Amy Mathews, Patient Advocacy and Liaison Services Coordinator and Jackie Finnegan, Clinical Placement coordinator with support from colleagues across multiple disciplines.
The new booklet is available both digitally, accessible by a bedside sticker with QR code and in hard copy on all wards and departments in the hospital for patients. It is also available on the HSE Website for family members who wish to take a more active role in supporting the patient.
Image: L-R Colleagues in the Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore Tina Connaughton, Patient Safety Officer, Amy Mathews, Patient Advocacy and Liaison Services Coordinator, Clare Conway, Quality and Patient Safety Manager, Catriona Mc Donald, General Manager and Louisea Burke, Director of Nursing.
