Specialist equipment making a difference for local children

New devices are making is easier for younger patients at Scunthorpe and Grimsby hospitals to receive their treatment.

Two new AccuVein devices have been purchased for the children’s wards.

The AccuVein device shines a light onto a patient’s arm making it easier for clinicians to locate the patient’s vein to deliver their medicine, fluids or take their blood.

Sometimes it can take multiple attempts to find a vein which can be painful and in the case of small children it can be even more difficult and cause distress.

The Rainforest ward at Grimsby and the Disney ward at Scunthorpe, both now have an AccuVein device thanks to the Health Tree Foundation (HTF), the official charity for Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust.

A wish was made to HTF’s ‘Circle of Wishes’ by ward manager Sally Trevers.

The Circle of Wishes is the Health Tree Foundation’s unique way of matching the charitable intent of the community with the wishes of the Trust’s patients. Wishes can be put forward by patients, visitors and staff members at the hospital. Wishes aim to go over and above, providing a better patient experience within the hospital.

Ward sister on the Disney ward, Vikki McAlpine said: “AccuVeins are a real benefit to our patients as their veins can be so tiny to find and this device helps in those situations.

“We are very grateful to the Health Tree Foundation for enabling us to purchase the AccuVein device which has made the experience of our little patients that much easier.

“Our nursing and medical staff have also reported that this has enhanced  their practice when dealing with difficult veins.”

Grimsby community champion at HTF, Laura Gooderham, said; “The AccuVeins have been purchased from the money donated to the Little Lives funds at Scunthorpe and Grimsby hospitals – without the support from the local community these wishes could not be granted.”

The devices cost £3,500 each.

If you are interested in supporting your local hospital, you can contact the Health tree Foundation via email at hello@healthtreefoundation.org.uk.