ANNUAL REVIEW master Final3a - St Vincent's University Hospital

St. Michael’s Hospital
Nursing
The Nursing Staff at St Michael’s Hospital continue in their endeavours to give holistic care to the patient
population from Dun Laoghaire, the surrounding areas and the many visitors that have crossed the threshold
over the past year.
Staff said a sad and fond farewell to Ms. Robyn Henderson who resigned following leave of absence. She is
missed for her vibrant buzz but will remain an encouraging support. Pat McNally CNM 2, retired after 27
years at the hospital as manager and person responsible for the establishment of the Diabetes Unit, which
she has left in the capable hands of Ber Lynch CNM 2.
There were many new Nursing initiatives during the year, including:
Diabetes:
Insulin Pump Therapy introduced, insulin treatment correction sliding scale cards,
carbohydrate counting / insulin treatment sheets for the ward patients and the
unit continues to work with a multidisciplinary team.
Respiratory: The introduction and development of the Omalizumab/Xolair clinic and the research on the
outcomes for these Xolair patients and the oxygen assessment clinic. There is a research / project planning
for End of Life study for Lung Fibrosis and preparation for the development of Non Invasive Ventilation Study
Day to start February 2008.
Cancer Care / Urology: Male Urethral Catheterisation for nurses wishing to include male catheterisation in
their scope of practice and facilitating the education of Public Health Nurses in the changing of Supra-pubic
catheters in the community.
Cardiac Rehabilitation: A conference was held for all past patients in the local Royal Marine Hotel at the end
of 2007. Invited speakers from group such as Active Retirement contributed to the success of the day. Due
to the overwhelming positive feedback, it was decided that this would be an annual event.
Palliative Care: Funded by the National Council, a Palliative Care Facilitator for a period of one year has
proved invaluable. Jeanette Barber not only educates but also takes an active part in Palliative Care.
A Palliative Care folder was introduced in Clinical Areas which includes information and references on the
various aspects of palliative care and relevant policies where updated including “Care of the Deceased” and
information packs for relatives.
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