Ward A6
Ward A6 is one of two mixed sex general surgical ward caring for patients undergoing elective and emergency colorectal, upper gastrointestinal, and general surgical procedures, the other being Ward A4. Emergency admissions are usually admitted via the Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU)
The ward consists of three, four-bedded bays and eight side wards. We have eight consultants based within the ward.
The ward operates an Enhanced Recovery Programme for suitable colorectal patients. The enhanced recovery programme is about improving patient outcomes and speeding up a patient's recovery after surgery. It results in benefits to both patients and staff. The programme focuses on making sure that patients are active participants in their own recovery process. It also aims to ensure that patients always receive evidence based care at the right time.
Outcomes of the enhanced recovery programme are:
- Better outcomes and reduced length of stay
- Increased numbers of patients being treated (if there is demand) or reduced level of resources necessary
- Better staffing environment
Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU)
The SAU is an eight-bedded emergency admissions unit caring for surgical and urological patients during the initial acute phase of their hospital admission. The unit consists of two, four-bedded bays and is based on Ward A6.
We assess, stabilise, investigate and initiate treatment. Patients are then either transferred to a ward or, if medically stable, discharged home
Our ward vision: “FOCUSED”
Focused on providing best practice through evidence based, patient centred care
Organised with a friendly, calm, professional atmosphere
Communicates effectively with all patients, relatives, carers and colleagues
Understands the diverse requirements of our patients and treats everyone with respect
Safe, clean and tidy environment ensuring infection prevention and control is a priority for all
Encouraging and supporting our staff to develop through ongoing training and education to maintain high standards of evidence based care
Delivering sustained improvements through effective teamwork and a shared commitment to providing quality care
Our aims
The aim of the nursing staff is to provide a high standard of patient care by assisting the individual during illness and recovery to an optimum state of health; consideration being given to the individual as a whole, their social psychological needs as well as their physical needs. The individual must be fully involved in decisions affecting their care at all times. Reassurance and comfort will be given to the individual’s family and friends. The care given will be research based and the quality of care will be ensured. Relevant information will be provided and guidance given to allow the individual to make informed decisions about their care and to gain the necessary knowledge to enable them to maintain optimum health and independence. We recognise that recovery from illness is not always possible and if this is the case we will endeavour to reassure, relive anxieties and aid the individual to a peaceful and dignified death.
Infection prevention
Can all visitors ensure they use the alcohol gel provided, on entering and exiting the ward.
Flowers are not permitted on the ward.
Please do not visit the ward if you have had diarrhoea or vomiting within the last 48 hours.
Mealtimes
We operate protective mealtimes to allow patients to have their meal without distraction or embarrassment if they have difficulties with eating. Routine tasks will not be performed during this time by nursing staff.
Times: Lunch 12.30pm to 1.30pm, Evening 4.30pm to 5.30pm.
Useful admission information
Please bring all medication into hospital with you in the original packaging, also the name, address and phone number of your GP.
Where possible please bring your own nightwear, slippers and toiletries.
Do not keep large amounts of cash or valuables with you whilst in hospital. The Trust does not accept any liability or responsibility for any valuables that are not given to the Trust for safe keeping.
Mobile phones may not be used or charged on whilst on the ward.
No more than 3 visitors per patient at any one time are allowed. Visitors are not allowed to sit on the beds; chairs are available on the ward.
Children are allowed on the ward at the discretion of the Nurse in Charge at the time, they must be well behaved and supervised by an adult at all times.
Location
The ward is located on the first floor of the Acute Block. This is known as the purple route - see this map for its location. Enter the hospital at the main entrance (clock tower) and turn left after the information desk, where you will see lifts or stairs.
If you are arriving in your own vehicle, the nearest place to leave it is Car Park A (the main car park).
Contact details and visiting times
Main ward desk telephone number is 0161 291 6697.
Ward Manager – Rebecca Marchington rebecca.marchington@uhsm.nhs.uk
Sister – Rebecca Saunders rebecca.saunders@uhsm.nhs.uk
Sister – Kate Robinson kate.robinson@uhsm.nhs.uk
Matron – Nicky Frame nicky.frame@uhsm.nhs.uk
Speciality lead consultant – Mr Ian Welch ian.welch@uhsm.nhs.uk
Please try to avoid telephoning the ward before 10.00am and at meal times to allow staff to focus on assisting patients.
Visiting times are 1.30pm to 4.30pm and 6.00pm to 8.00pm.
If you need to visit outside these hours, please telephone the ward to discuss with the nurse in charge.