August 31, 2015 9.13 am This story is over 103 months old

Lincoln nurses in line for national honours after improving patient care

Efforts recognised: Three nurses at Lincoln County Hospital have been shortlisted for a prestigious award following their work to improve patient care on the emergency admissions unit.
(Left to right) Respiratory nurses Laura Fowler, Kathryn Cope and Katie Sleight

Three nurses at Lincoln County Hospital have been shortlisted for a prestigious award following their work to improve patient care on the emergency admissions unit.

Respiratory nurse specialists Laura Fowler, Katie Sleight and Kathryn Cope, along with consultant Zara Pogson, have been nominated for The Nursing Times Awards.

The four had their work published in the British Journal of Nursing following the setting up of an ‘in-reach’ service.

The project, looking at improving the care and experience of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, showed a reduction in length of stay and readmission rates.

The specialists provide patients with education and individual action plans to help those with chronic symptoms manage their conditions at home.

This can include reviewing medication, assessing inhaler techniques and giving advice of giving up smoking.

Since the service was launched, length of stay for patients was reduced by more than two and a half days and readmission was also significantly lower than previously.

Surveys were taken with the patients and results showed that they were more prepared for discharge from hospital and that they received more information.

Laura Fowler said: “We are very excited to have been shortlisted for this award; and grateful that our hard work is being recognised.

“We provide supportive care and symptomatic advice for patients admitted with other respiratory conditions.

“All of this is aimed at providing patients with the tools to manage their own long term conditions, prevent unnecessary admissions to hospital, and aid with prompt discharges with the appropriate amount of care and support.”

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Thursday, November 12 at Grosvenor House, London.