"Communication issues"

I had a short stay before Christmas 2017 on Watermead and then moved to Ashby Ward. The staff on the ground do an amazing job, and I am eternally grateful for their patience and professionalism working in an exceptionally challenging environment where things are moving constantly and there is seemingly no respite.

I will say that there are definite communication problems from Consultant to staff, and between shifts. Each shift nurse will defer to the nurse in charge who will apply their own judgement as to each patients care plan. This doesn’t seem to transfer consistently or accurately down the channels and between shifts!

I’m not sure what is updated on Ward notes, but if one nurse in charge allows a specific leave protocol, or one has been agreed at consultant level, then this needs to be reflected on ward notes at the time of agreement.

Patients getting differing answers to the same question regarding ‘leave’, for example, confuses and frustrates both parties in equal measure and is detrimental to progress. I’m sure that this isn’t intentional, due to the workload endured by staff, but it is important that comms channels are used and that we’re all on the same page.

Some of the night staff are rather loud, and show a lack of self awareness, and with little regard to patients trying to get some sleep. I did mention this at the patient/staff meeting and I’m happy to report that issues improved thereafter. Hopefully this continues.

Now that I’ve mentioned these issues staff might well remember my comments at the time.

The gym is way too small by the way, it’s a very useful resource that could be so much more and play a much much larger part in rehabilitation for mental health issues. It needs free weights (under supervision, of course). Exercise helps.

So I hope all staff and patients had a restful and peaceful time at Christmas (as much as possible!) and wish you all continuing and improved healthly outlook for 2018.