Northern Ireland’s Chief Nursing Officer Professor Charlotte McArdle has today urged patients and staff to take part in the #EndPJParalysis campaign which aims to encourage patients who are fit to get dressed and to get moving as part of a major drive to boost their recovery.
The campaign #EndPJParalysis, which will run for 70 days right across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, aims to give patients back one million days of their precious time that would otherwise be spent in a bed in hospital or a care home.
Professor McArdle said: “This is an important initiative so encouraging our patients to participate in this campaign is a vital step in ensuring that they do not spend any longer than is necessary in hospital.
“Evidence suggests that for many wearing pyjamas all day whilst staying in hospital or a care home can slow recovery, reduce independence and leads to other medical problems. Studies have also revealed that three-in-five immobile, older patients in hospital had no medical reason that required bed rest, and doubling the amount of walking while in hospital reduced the length of stay. Promoting and supporting patients to get up, get dressed and moving can improve their recovery which ultimately means they can get home quicker to their family and friends.
“We are very grateful to colleagues in the Public Health Agency, Health and Social Care Board, Trusts and wider NHS for all of their work in supporting this important and valuable initiative.”
In Northern Ireland, a number of wards in each Trust area will be supporting #EndPJParalysis.
Director of Nursing and User Experience at the Belfast Trust, Brenda Creaney urged all of those who care for patients, especially older people to encourage them to get up and active especially if they are in hospital.
“We know that 10 days of bed rest in hospital leads to the equivalent of 10 years of ageing in the muscles of people over 80.
“So encouraging patients to get dressed everyday rather than remaining in their pyjamas further enhances their dignity and their sense of identity, as well as their health and wellbeing. This is about supporting people to live much happier and fuller lives make the most of precious time with loved ones,” she said.
TOP STORIES