Denise crowned Patient Hero after helping young patients with learning Disabilities through blood test appointments
Colleagues gave a huge round of applause and cheers after Phlebotomy Supervisor, Denise Clark, was presented with our Patient Hero Award for the help she gives to patients with Learning Disabilities and Complex Challenging Behaviours.
Denise was presented with her award by Interim Executive Medical Director, Dr James Crampton, after a glowing nomination from a colleague, who praised Denise as “an invaluable link for our team who always goes above and beyond to support our young people” who visit the Blood Clinic at Florence Nightingale Community Hospital for a blood test.
The anonymous colleague who nominated Denise said in their citation: “The majority of the young people we work with really struggle with health appointments, particularly invasive health appointments like blood tests. They have probably had negative experiences in the past and are very anxious in this environment which can result in them displaying challenging behaviours.
“Recently, Denise and her fabulous team managed to take blood from a young patient who was particularly distressed, remaining very calm and professional throughout the appointment. The patient’s mother was so pleased about this as the young person has several health issues that require bloods as part of further investigation to monitor their anti-psychotic medication.”
A blushing Denise thanked all of her colleagues for her nomination and for their continued hard work: “I don’t really know what to say other than thank you! The team are great and I couldn’t do any of this without them.”
After presenting Denise with her award, Dr Crampton said: “It is my honour and privilege to have been able to be here to present this today. What you do is amazing and on behalf of our patients, communities and the whole Executive Team, I want to say a huge thank you and well done to you.”
If you know a UHDB member of staff or team who should be recognised for their exceptional work, you can nominate them for a monthly Making a Difference Award by emailing uhdb.employeeawards@nhs.net.