Blackpool Victoria Hospital - Suction Units

UPDATE:  This equipment was delivered in 2005

Blackpool Victoria Hospital Children’s Unit treats 5000 children each year with a wide range of health conditions. Many patients develop health problems that result in them being unable to clear mucous and other fluids from their airways. These children must use suction equipment to ensure the airways are kept clear. This treatment is particularly necessary for some wheelchair bound patients as well as children suffering from cerebral palsy, or tracheotomy.

Standard suction units are present on the ward, but there is only one portable device. This is in constant demand for transferring children to theatre, x-ray and other treatment rooms within the hospital, as well as to other hospital sites when required. However, it means that children must stay next to their beds when the device is in use by another patient. By providing two more of these items children will be able to move away from the ward area, to the outside play area, school room or even to move around the hospital with a parent.

 

This device will give children a much greater sense of freedom. It can allow them to leave the ward area for short periods with their family to go outside. For a child hospitalised for long periods of time this small change can have a huge impact on health and recovery.

 

The suction units cost £595.00 each and two are required with a total cost of £1,190.00.