SLHT puts Nutrition at top of its agenda

04-May-2012

Dietitians across South London Healthcare Trust demonstrated the importance of nutrition in the patient's journey this week.  Accompanied by CEO Dr Chris Streather, they visited ward 15 at the Queen Elizabeth hospital at lunch time. They spent time with patients at the ward lunch club and also observed meal service to the patient bedside.

The dietitians highlighted the work that's going on across the Trust, with the goal of making it a centre of excellence for nutrition and hydration. Other projects they are involved with include; Food Focus Groups including patient representatives, catering, dietetics, speech therapy and nursing staff, frequent meal time visits, regular training for volunteers to support mealtimes, ongoing training for staff on the importance of nutrition and appropriate screening for malnutrition, and a Fit & Trim club for staff.

The Trust has received positive assessments from the CQC about its elderly care but the trust is aware that nutrition is a vital part of the care and continuous improvement is essential.

This initiative comes hot on the heels of the results of the national patients’ survey last week which showed patient satisfaction rising across the board at SLHT by 2.7%, one of the best improvement rates in England.

The Dr Foster Good Hospital Guide has also placed SLHT in the best 10 in England for patient outcomes on mortality rates.

Angela Gibb, Head of Dietetics, said; “Food is essential as treatment. SLHT takes pride in nutritional care. Our aim is that all patients admitted to our wards and departments will be nutritionally screened within 24 hours of admission and that an appropriate care plan will be put in place to meet their nutritional needs”.

If you are interested in discussing any nutritional issues, please contact Angela Gibb, Head of Dietetics on 07901114797 or email a.gibb@nhs.net.