The relaxation room on Aintree Stroke Unit at Aintree University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust was opened in December 2017.
The room provides a dedicated space to help combat some of the psychological effects of a stroke.
The room, which is a converted office space, includes sensory lighting, relaxing music and essential oils which are known for their calming and therapeutic properties. It’s a great addition to the stroke ward at Aintree and really improves the experience of patients.
We are incredibly proud of Danielle McDermott, Data Quality Co-ordinator Stroke for having the initiative to create this space with the support of her colleagues. A stroke affects your brain, which is what controls your emotions and behaviours, so having the space to address any psychological issues alongside the medical care offered on our stroke unit is fantastic news for our patients and really enhances the psychology services provided on the ward.
The room was officially opened on 23rd February 2018 by two ex Liverpool Football Club players, Terry McDermott and David Johnson. Terry said: “This is a great addition to the stroke ward at Aintree and will really improve the experience of patients. I’m incredibly proud of Danielle for having the initiative to create this space with the support of her colleagues. I’ve heard lots about it, so it’s great to see it in the flesh and be here for the official opening.”
Since the room has opened both staff and patients have completed evaluation forms and the feedback has been fantastic.
A summary of the feedback to date is detailed below:
Number of evaluations:
• Patient- 9
• Relative/Visitor- 29
• Staff Member- 17
• Total evaluations received- 55
Those evaluating were asked to provide comments on how the room benefitted them and or their relative. There are too many comments to list below but a selection of comments are detailed below:
Relatives/Visitors
• Having a quiet place to be with family and privately talk to staff about our mothers Stroke and treatment was a great help.
• The colours, lighting and furniture helped our Mum relax and relieved some of her stress
• I love sitting in this room it has a lovely calming effect
• It has allowed me to spend quality time with my family in a space that feels more like home than a hospital
• I particularly love the fireplace and its comforting glow
• So nice to sit in the dark with sensory lighting on. Nice calm atmosphere to chat to our Mum
• Our family were very stressed as we were worried about our Mum. This wonderful room helped us relax and calm down
• This room is a god send and should be in all hospitals
• Beautiful space to catch a relaxing half hour. The counsellor Danielle is absolutely brilliant and helped us immensely
• We stayed with Mum 24/7 until she passed. This room enabled us to relax, sleep and recharge our energy. It was fantastic thank-you so much • Danielle is a wonderful kind person who was a great help to our family
Patients • Our Dad is unable to speak. As soon as we arrive he makes his way to his favourite seat and he sleeps and rests
• It very calming and nice to spend some time away from the ward
• Vey tranquil and relaxing
• Everyone should visit this facility, so relaxing and helpful
• The person in charge is very respectful of your needs
• A nice place to go and chill out away from the ward
• Made me feel peaceful and gave me a better frame of mind Staff
• It’s a fantastic idea to benefit everyone
• Ideal place to collect your thoughts and relax during a stressful shift
• Nice place to spend a quick minute
• I forgot I was in the hospital when I was in there. Its so beneficial for our pat
The link to the video showing the room:
Since opening the room our Trauma Team at Aintree have been to view it and would like to replicate it for their patients. We believe this is something that would benefit patients across the country.
https://youtu.be/J8NEmnZPBZs