Can you read the signs?

Hello my name is

June,

I’m the Senior Nurse for Older Adults at Monklands Hospital.

Being in hospital can be an anxious time for most people. This is particularly the case for people who have dementia. An unfamiliar environment and change of routine can be unsettling and distressing.

We have been working hard to make sure we are providing the best possible care and treatment for these patients. In addition to specialist training for staff, the introduction of activities for patients and improved support for carers we have also focussed on improving the ward environments.

We have undertaken extensive refurbishment work in Ward 20 at Monklands to ensure the ward is as safe and “patient-friendly” as possible. The colour of surroundings is known to affect people with dementia; for example, we know that different colour flooring contributes to trips and falls. We made sure the doors contrast with the walls and the floor is one colour throughout the ward.

Patients who are able, take their meals in the refurbished Day Room. This has seen an improvement in some patients eating. This room also has a Reminiscence pod and is used for group activities in the mornings and afternoons.

We have also developed colourful, clear signage for use throughout the wards. This has proved such a success that it has been adopted throughout NHS Scotland.

All these changes have made a difference to our patients. Patients are less agitated and the ward is calmer. Anecdotally staff have reported a reduction in the number of falls in this patient group as a result of the initiatives that have been put in place.

If you have an experience of Monklands Hospital you would like to share, please speak to a member of staff, respond on Patient Opinion, or visit the “Your Feedback” Section of the NHS Lanarkshire website to see the other ways to get in touch www.nhslanarkshire.org.uk