Enter and View: 136 Suite

Summary:

• Healthwatch Manchester found the 136 Suite to be a well-presented facility with welcoming and enthusiastic staff, robust management systems and no outstanding issues to cause concern.
• Compared to similar suites attached to Accident & Emergency units this 136 Suite benefited from a calming environment with a discrete entryway and from its proximity to the residential ward.
• It is Healthwatch Manchester’s observation that this model has been a success and replication may benefit other areas where similar provision is needed.
• Healthwatch Manchester has questioned some of the metrics used in patient flow data and has recommended additional special category data be gathered on admission.
• Provision of a patient’s personal needs, such as dietary and religious observance, seem to considered, though there is limited call for this due to the nature of the Suite.
• Some issues around staffing levels and use of on-call clinicians were raised through conversation with the staff themselves, it is understood that these issues are being addressed by the Trust.
• It is understood that delays in assessment can be caused by the necessity of waiting for a social worker to attend, as well as a reliance on use of on-call clinicians who may be based off-site or in other parts of the hospital.
• Transfer of care to sites other than the SAFIRE Unit (such as out of area or private hospitals) have been reported as requiring a handover procedure that is unique to each setting. This may be unpredictable in advance and requires additional staff time to facilitate.
• Staff have suggested some material alterations to the Suite, which are under consideration by leaders.
• Healthwatch Manchester is pleased to see evidence that leadership is responsive to staff feedback.