Ward 15
By Amy Brown, Ward Sister, Ward 15
What was your experience of the pandemic?
At the start of the Pandemic Ward 15 Annexe was identified as the Covid area for these patients. When the surgical wards were closed, we were thankful that we received help and support from Ward 5, Ward 17 and Surgical Day Care (SDC) staff. Initially, this was a frightening time for all and the unknown heightened the anxieties. The staff that worked on Ward 15 during this time, led by example and cared for these patients with gold standard care, no questions asked. A few weeks later we were able to help support other areas who were coming to care for these patients by listening to feedback and implementing change.
The team demonstrated amazing flexibility especially during the times when Covid came down the ward and we were managing three areas. Once one area could be closed, the team worked hard in quickly turning those areas around so they were ready for non-covid patients.
What was the hardest part?
The responsibility of running two/three areas during what was a difficult time with so many unknowns including caring for patients with different specialities. Ward 15 rose to the challenge with full commitment to patient care.
How did you cope?
Teamwork and working together through the challenging days. We had some fantastic feedback from the areas that had come to help us which only encouraged us to continue with the amazing care the team gave.
What did you learn?
In the face of adversity, we learnt how courageous our staff were by tackling challenging conversations and caring for patients out of our specialty. We utilised the wider multi-disciplinary team to seek support for specialists’ skills and knowledge enabling us to continue to provide the best possible care. Covid further highlighted the importance of amazing teamwork and how essential it was that we looked after one another during the unprecedented times.
How do you think it changed the team?
The team have become more insightful of the wider trust having experienced the difficulties that sometimes we faced during that time. Staff always shows willing when needed to help on other areas and likewise demonstrate empathy for those staff who are sent to support us.
Beyond your team, who has inspired you during the pandemic?
Ward 5, Ward 17 and SDC staff who came to help on Ward 15 during these times were and inspiration to Ward 15 staff as they never once complained and they were always willing to help. Alongside the skills and knowledge, they brought a sense of positivity and comradery. We formed strong working relationships that have continued.
Celebrating BWC Spirit
We are highlighting the amazing things our colleagues have done and achieved during the pandemic.
Our teams have bravely stood by the side of our patients, changed how they have worked to keep key and emergency services running and gone beyond the Trust to help colleagues in other parts of the NHS.
They have done so with an approach and spirit that is uniquely BWC and we want to celebrate that and what has been achieved.
From frontline clinical colleagues to our unseen and often unsung heroes in labs, offices and in our corridors - everyone has had a part to play and we’re sharing some of their stories over the next two weeks.
If you would like to thank individuals or teams either by sharing some kind words, pictures or a short video we would love to see them. You can submit your messages, pictures or videos by emailing bwc.communications@nhs.net