The Frailty Unit at University Hospital Monklands stands out as a beacon of dedication, innovation, and collaborative teamwork. This forward-thinking team is fully committed to enhancing the quality of care for some of our most vulnerable patients—those living with frailty.
The Frailty Unit exemplifies a strong multi-disciplinary approach, uniting healthcare professionals across specialisms to provide personalised, coordinated care. In response to challenges around patient flow within the hospital, the team has continuously adapted their practices to ensure that patients receive the right care at the right time.
Among their recent initiatives is the “Up to Sit” project, which encourages patients to sit up during the day to help prevent deconditioning and promote mobility. This simple but effective change has made a tangible impact on patient wellbeing, supporting quicker recoveries and fostering greater independence.
The team has also focused on strengthening collaboration between the Frailty Unit and the Emergency Department, creating smoother transitions for patients in need of specialised care. Additionally, they have played a vital role in implementing electronic frailty screening within NHS Lanarkshire. This ongoing project aims to streamline the screening process, ensuring patients are assessed promptly and their unique needs addressed efficiently.
Senior Charge Nurse Sharlen Bissland reflects on the team’s dedication: “Our unit is all about providing patient-centred, compassionate care. Every initiative we take on, whether it’s a small project or a major system improvement, is driven by the aim to enhance the experience and wellbeing of our patients. Seeing the positive impact of our work on patients’ recovery and independence is incredibly rewarding.”
A big shout out to the Frailty Unit at University Hospital Monklands for their inspiring commitment to improving patient care and for leading by example in collaboration and innovation. Their efforts make a real difference to the lives of patients and the wider hospital community.
