New initiative helps patients and staff identify A&E Nurse in Charge

A simple new initiative to help patients, visitors and staff identify the Nurse in Charge has been introduced in the Accident and Emergency Department at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.

An armband, similar to a Captain’s armband in football, is now being worn by the Nurse in Charge to make them easier to spot.

The Nurse in Charge on any given day is responsible for the co-ordination of the department and managing patient flow.

Karen Thompson, A&E Ward Manager at RSH, said: “The idea behind the armband is so that whoever comes into the Department, be that patients, visitors or other members of staff, can easily identify who is in charge at that time.

“Even at times when I am here, I may not be co-ordinating the Department because of other duties, so it is important that people can see who they might need to speak to about a specific issue.

“The Nurse in Charge is responsible for co-ordinating the Emergency Department and we will ensure that they will hold the keys for the Department so that all members of staff know where to find them at all times.”

The idea came after Karen read an article about a similar initiative which operates at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London.

Karen said: “It seemed like such a simple thing which could make a big difference. We brought it in at the weekend and staff, patients and visitors already seem to be liking the idea.”