Regional amputee rehabilitation unit in Withers 3a

(taken from Grassroots, February 2004)

The regional amputee rehabilitation unit recently moved into new accommodation in Withers ward 3a. The new facility means amputee patients are treated in a specialist unit with fourteen beds, eight of which are used for amputee rehabilitation. The remaining 6 are used for orthopaedic rehabilitation and minor surgery. The service in ward 3a is regional and patients are transferred from hospitals and care centres across Northern Ireland. Average length of stay on the amputee ward is around three weeks, so staff have an opportunity to build relationships with patients and provide continuity of care. Patients come to Ward 3a after their stump has healed, which is usually between 6 weeks and 6 months after amputation. They receive an individual programme of multidisciplinary care to help them regain as independent a life as possible following amputation. This includes input from podiatrists, dietitians, physios, OTs, and nursing staff.

Ward Manager Linda Williamson explained,

"Patients are very pleased with our new surroundings. We have specialist equipment and facilities tailored for their particular needs, so they can receive improved treatment and can spend time with other patients, going out at evenings and weekends.

The refurbishment has been a boost to staff morale too, it's like working in a new hospital. All the staff in 3a have chosen to specialise in amputee rehabilitation, which makes them a dedicated care team. There are 25 nursing and healthcare staff working in a very friendly atmosphere. Another advantage is that we now have increased capacity and can treat more patients than before."

Mr George Bell, from Belfast is a 72 year old inpatient, he commented,

"I do like the ward - it's bright and cheerful and the staff are lovely. I enjoy talking to other patients with similar conditions to mine, it's nice to be in a small group and we tend to have a lot in common."