Tunbridge Wells Hospital ICU achieves international recognition
Intensive care units look after people with serious and life-threatening conditions, with specialist doctors and nurses supporting patients with long-term recovery.The HU-CI project said it evaluated different aspects of care and the MTW team scored an "excellent" rating across 160 standards, "setting a benchmark for hospitals across Europe".Lucy Gosnell, ICU senior sister, said: "With enhanced rehabilitation practices that start from the patient's admission in intensive care, not only do we see better survival but we see better patient outcomes, and they return to a better quality of life afterwards."
The trust said hospitals with HU-CI certification have seen a reduction in patients' lengths of stay in intensive care, and a decrease in the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research has also shown a fall in the number of patients discharged to a care home or rehabilitation facility, helping them get home more quickly, it added.The Tunbridge Wells unit allows a nominated next-of-kin to visit 24 hours a day, seven days a week, giving them unlimited time with the patient and allowing them to visit at a convenient time.The trust said it was the only unit in the UK to offer this.Dr Gabriel Heras de Calle, director of the project, said: "This is testament to the enthusiasm and dedication of the team, and a reflection of the great work already being done."The trust's chief executive, Miles Scott, said: "One of our trust's values is 'patient first' and this certification demonstrates just that – clinical excellence combined with patient-centred care."
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