Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
�1
VASCULAR MATTERS 4th Quarter 2015 (Conference Edition)
Circulation Foundation Prize Applicants (Page 9)
Leg ulcers: let’s do the sums (Page 6)
PAD Assessment in Primary Care (Page 10)
Interview with Claire Stephens: the nurse behind the charity Woundcare4Heroes (Page 18)
Follow the Society of Vascular Nurses on Facebook & Twitter for the latest vascular nursing news
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
�2
President Research & Development Michael van Orsouw
Matron for Vascular C/O Luke & Evan Jones Wards, 1st Floor, North Wing, Dept of Vascular Surgery, St Thomas Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, SE1 7EH 0207 188 7188, ext 54090, Bleep 2536 [email protected]
Vice President Nikki Fenwick
Vascular Nurse Specialist Sheffield Vascular Institute, 2nd Floor Nurses Home, Northern General Hospital, Herries Rd, Sheffield, S5 7AU. 01142 434343 Blp 2773 [email protected]
Past President Aisling Roberts
Vascular Nurse Specialist Wren Unit, The Great Western Hospital, Malborough Rd, Swindon, SN3 6BB 01793 604373 [email protected]
Vascular Matters Editor Emma Bond
Vascular Nurse Specialist Glan Clwyd Hospital, Sarn Lane, Bodelwyddan, N.Wales, LL18 3PS 01745 445405 [email protected] [email protected]
Vascular Matters Editor Website Co-Ordinator Leanne Atkin
Vascular Nurse Specialist Division of Podiatry, Dept of Health Sciences, Ramsden building, RG/11, The University of Huddersfield. [email protected]
Membership Sue Ward
Vascular Nurse Specialist C/O Mr Brooks’ Secretary, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Rd, Brighton 01273 696955 Blp 8213 [email protected]
Conference Organiser Louise Allen
Vascular Nurse Specialist St Mary’s Hospital, Praed St, London W2 1NY 0203 312 6246 [email protected]
Affiliation Ruth Chipp
Vascular Nurse Specialist C/O Vascular Secretaries, Sunderland Royal Hospital, Kayll Rd, Sunderland, SR4 7TP 0191 5656256 Ext 42409 [email protected]
Secretary Helen Sanderson
Vascular Nurse Specialist Southend Hospital, Wound Management Unit, Balmoral Ward, Prittlewell Chase, Westcliff On Sea, SS0 0RY 01702 385354 [email protected]
Interim Secretary Evening Symposium Claire Thomson
Vascular ANP Wd 14, Royal Bournemouth Hospital, Castle Lane, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH7 7DW 01202 303626 bleep 2620 [email protected]
Evening Symposium Organiser Corporate Sponsorship Gail Curran
Vascular Nurse Practitioner The Cambridge Vascular Unit, Box 201, Addenbrooks Hospital, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Rd, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ 01223 245151 Blp 154-226 [email protected]
Competencies Lead Lifetime Awards Kate Rowlands
Vascular Nurse Specialist C/O Ward B2, Cardiff Regional Vascular Unit UHW, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XW 02920 742699, L/R Bleep 07623906342 [email protected]
Treasurer Bursaries Jayne Burns
Non-Committee Role
SVN COMMITTEE
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
�3
Contents
Page 5 SVN President’s Welcome
Page 6 Leg Ulcers: Let’s do the sums
Page 10 Risk Factor Assessment and Modification by General Practitioners in Peripheral Arterial Disease
Page 15 James Purdie Prize Abstracts
Page 23 An interview with Claire Stephens - Woundcare4Heroes
Page 27 SVN Life Time Achievement Award for Services to Vascular Nursing
Page 28 Treasurers Report
Page 31 SVN Conference Programme
Any articles, questions, queries or comments about Vascular Matters, please email the editors at [email protected] or [email protected]
If you are attending the conference, please come and speak to us, we would love to hear your thoughts
Vascular Matters Editors
Leanne Atkin & Emma Bond
svn.org.ukThe official website of the Society of Vascular Nurses
Visit here for information on SVN membership, conference information, bursary applications and much, much more!
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �4
SVN Membership Form (also available online svn.org.uk)
FULL NAME:_____________________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS:______________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________POSTCODE:__________________
Email:_____________________________________________________Tel no: ________________________
JobTitle:___________________________________________________Grade:________Hospital________
Area of work: (e.g.Community/Ward/Lab)__________________________________________________
MEMBERSHIP TYPE Full (circle as appropriate): NEW MEMBER / RENEWAL (all registered nurses)
ASSOCIATE (all other Healthcare professionals with an interest in vascular care)
WARD MEMBERSHIP Does this include a Nurse Specialist? Name of Nurse Specialist: _______________
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE: £20 OVERSEAS MEMBERSHIP £25WARD MEMBERSHIP £100
Cheques should be made payable to the ‘Society of Vascular Nurses’
In accordance with the Data Protection Act you are advised that enrolment information provided by members will be computerised and used for administration purposes. It may be shared with third parties in order to send you RELEVANT information (for example, information about vascular products, study days, courses, meetings etc).
I do not want my name and address circulated on mailing lists (please tick for NO)
Please return form and fee to: Sue Ward VNS Vascular Assessment Unit, The Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Road, Brighton BN2 5BEEmail [email protected] Tel 01273 696955 bleep 8213
Confirmation of membership will be sent via emailplease email [email protected] if you have any queries or think your SVN membership has expired
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �5
President’s Welcome
Welcome to the conference edition of the Society of Vascular Nurses’ newsletter. For those of you attending the conference I hope that you are enjoying the experience. For those who were unable to attend I hope to see you at our conference next year in Manchester. For those of you who are attending you will have noticed that we have changed the way you book yourself into the conference now having a joint registration with the Vascular Society and The Society of Vascular Technologists. It is hoped that this now makes it easier to register for the conference particularly if you wish to attend the Vascular Society conference as well. However, we are aware that this is the first year that we have done this and would welcome any feedback about the registration process that you may have.
The change in the registration process has also highlighted an issue with the sharing of databases. Currently we do not share your details from the database with any external parties. However the company which runs the registration would have liked access to the database to inform you about the upcoming conference. So as a committee we are going to ask that when you register if you will give permission to share your details with a third parties. As a committee we will try to ensure that this information is only shared with third parties with an educational perspective and not to companies who are interested in selling products.
Since the last newsletter it is with regret that I have to report the Helen Sanderson has decided to resign from the committee. Helen has been on the committee for several years and I would like to personally like to thank her for her hard work and dedication to the society.
In other news several members of the committee have recently had an article accepted for publication on “peripheral arterial disease: symptoms, assessment and management” .The article is being published in the “Independent Nurse” journal and is in the process of being published as we go to press so please look out for the article. In the future it is hoped that the Society of Vascular Nurses will publish further articles on vascular disease to try to increase peoples’ perception of the role of nurses caring for vascular patients.
Finally I hope you all enjoy this edition and please send any articles, reviews, case studies or points of interest you have to the editorial panel - it's always good to hear from you.
Michael van Orsouw
President of the Society of Vascular Nurses
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �6
Leg ulcers: let’s do the sums Karen Dhillon, Vascular research nurse at Imperial College
What are we doing to address the ongoing UK crisis in leg ulcer care? Find out how we can help improve care for patients nationwide
The government recently pledged a £22 billion efficiency savings target for the NHS.Well to quote a widely-known retailer: “Every little helps”…..When it comes to leg ulcers, we’re crying out for improvements.
Around 1 in 500 people living in the UK today has a venous leg ulcer and this increases to around 1 in 50 in the population over 80. As the population increases, so will the number of incidences of venous leg ulcers.
Yet, there is a feeling of general malaise, apathy and doom surrounding the subject. Venous ulceration is well recognized for its chronicity and anecdotes about relapse are not short in supply. But this problem desperately needs to be addressed; the quality for this patient group is poor, with higher incidences of depression than the rest of the population.
Venous ulcers also give rise to massive health care expenditure. Evidence shows a cost of approximately £1500 -£2000 per patient, per year in the UK. This adds up to around £600 million per annum at today’s prices; consuming 1-2% of the health care budgets of European countries.
And this isn’t even the whole picture. Wound care costs are defined solely by the cost of products, without taking into account the hands-on nursing input that is required, often on a daily basis. Imprecise disease classifications and coding episodes can mean there is a lack of understanding of the diagnoses and underlying causes.
So what are we doing about it?
In 2010, SIGN (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network) issued guidance in response to low healing rates in the community compared to rates in specialist clinic. The guidance included:
“Specialist leg ulcer clinics are recommended as the optimal service for community treatment of venous leg ulcer”
In July 2013, NICE released guidelines for varicose veins stating:
“All people should be managed by a team of healthcare professionals who have the skill to undertake a full clinical and duplex ultrasound assessment and provide a full range of treatment.”
It also recommended:
“Those with a venous ulcer (a break in the skin below the knee that has not healed within two weeks) or healed leg ulcers should be referred to a vascular service.”
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �7
“Do not offer compression hosiery to treat varicose veins unless interventional treatment is unsuitable”
The NICE quality standard on varicose veins in the legs, issued in August 2014, reiterates the need for specialist services:
“People with varicose veins that are causing symptoms or complications (including ulceration) are referred to a vascular service.”
The guidelines exist and it would seem that there is a clear and easy path for these supposedly complicated patients to achieve their hopes of utopia.
Apparently not…
Despite these clear, precise and eloquent guidelines by national bodies it seems that the message has not yet permeated down to a local level. Local prejudices and anecdotes still seem to trump national guidance in this field.
As a nurse who specialises in venous ulceration and who can also demonstrate excellent results this seems completely perverse to me.
Whilst one CCG will commission this service, the one next door will not. This is allegedly down to cost but the sums don’t add up.
You just have to look at the evidence: 70-80% of ulcers will heal within 12 weeks with specialist input.
These patients may need venous surgery during this 12 week period which costs the NHS £1023, much less than the publicised costs of unspecialised care for generic treatment. And that’s not even taking into account the savings on cost of transport, missed appointments and the emotional costs for the patient and family.
If we multiply these savings by the increasing number of ulcers, multiply again by the shortened healing times and again by evidenced improvement in quality of life, it seems a very simple equation. Yet it is being ignored without any voice of dissent.
Every little certainly does help; in fact some simple treatments can help financially, emotionally and physically- so why aren’t we using them?
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �8
How can you help improve the situation?
Vascular doctors and specialist nurses at 21 participating hospitals around the UK are looking for patients to take part in a clinical trial aiming to improve how leg ulcers are treated.
The EVRA (early venous reflux ablation) trial aims to improve how leg ulcers heal, which could lead to a better quality of life for patients.
It compares early treatment of leg ulcers to the standard treatment of treating the underlying problem once the ulcer has healed.
Do you know any patients who might like to take part? For further information on the EVRA trial and the participating hospitals please contact [email protected]
This project is sponsored by Imperial College London and was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR HTA) programme (project number 11/129/197). The views and opinions expressed therein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the HTA, NIHR, NHS or the Department of Health.
SVN Committee Secondment OpportunityDue to a committee member standing down, there is the opportunity for an SVN member to join the committee for 12 months. This offers a great experience and an excellent addition to your CV.
As part of the SVN committee your opinion, expertise and input will be highly valued and it is a great opportunity to influence the future of vascular nursing. Each member of the committee takes responsibility for a key area and is expected to write a piece for each newsletter edition.
The SVN meets 4x per year (1 full day meeting) and your travel expenses will be paid. You are expected to attend all of the meetings (minimum of 3) and applicants must ensure prior to application that this is achievable.
To apply please send an email to [email protected] with a 200 word piece about why you should be the newest addition to the SVN committee by 7/12/2015
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �10
Risk Factor Assessment and Modification by General Practitioners in Peripheral Arterial DiseaseCoulston J.E, Pearce M, Chaudry A, Roberts A, Hocken D.B. Department of Vascular Surgery, Great Western Hospital, Swindon, SN3 6BB
Abstract Risk Factor modification in peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is well documented to alter the progression of the disease and reduce overall cardiovascular mortality. Treatment for PAD is moving into primary care the aim of this study was to assess the level of risk factor assessment and modification currently occurring in primary practice.Forty consecutive new referrals to vascular clinic were identified. 79% of diabetic patients had an HbA1c assessed within 6 months prior to referral with 25% of results being higher than national guidelines. 35 patients had hypercholesterolemia but all were on a statin with an acceptable cholesterol level. 16 patients smoked with only 4 having been given advice to aid cessation. Only 38% of hypertensive patients had been assessed by primary care preceding referral and only 40% were on sufficient treatment to achieve a Primary care risk factors assessment and modification in patients with PAD is very varied and currently poor. This will need addressing if further management of these patients is moved into primary care.
Introduction The management of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common problem for both primary and secondary care. The mainstay of treatment revolves around the assessment and treatment of risk factors, as well as symptoms. In the majority of cases PAD is treated conservatively although there is a place for invasive therapies in selected cases1.Risk factor modification in PAD is well documented to alter the progression of the disease and can avoid the need for operative revascularisation2. It also recognised to reduce the overall mortality from global cardiovascular disease involvement, namely myocardial infarction and cerebral vascular accident2,3. Peripheral arterial disease alone is sufficient to indicate an increased mortality3,4. Risk factor modification also improves the outcome of patients who eventually require revascularization procedures5. The most important modifiable risk factors in PAD are smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia (specifically hypercholesterolemia) 5,6. Treatment of PAD is moving into primary care and guidelines from both the Department of Health and Vascular Surgical Society of Great Britain and Ireland and the World Health Organisation specifically mention risk factor modification in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease4,7-9. The aim of this study was to investigate risk factor assessment and modification occurring in primary practice prior to referral to secondary care.
Methods Eligible patients were those referred via primary care to a specialist nurse led vascular surgery clinic were identified. Patients were only included in the study if they had both clinical symptoms of PAD and an ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) of <0.9. Patients with clinical signs of critical ischemia or an ABPI <0.5 were excluded. Forty successive eligible patients were identified. Data for the study was gained from information provided in the general practitioners’ referral letter, through direct questioning of the patient and clinical assessment. A standard proforma was used to collect this data. Information was obtained from these two sources on different risk factors for PAD and whether the general practitioner had assessed these prior to referral. Information concerning patients’ current treatment regimes was gained, along with answers from the patients themselves, to try and ascertain if appropriate risk factor treatment had been initiated. The risk factors assessed in this study were cholesterol, triglycerides, hypertension, smoking, diabetes mellitus and body mass index. Also advice with regards to exercise, and the commencement of an anti-platelet drug were documented. For the purposes of this study, a risk factor was considered to have been assessed if the measurement had been taken within six months prior to referral.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �11
The 2004 ‘Joint British Societies’ guidelines on prevention of Cardiovascular disease in clinical practice’ (JBS2) were used as a ‘gold standard’ benchmark10. These guidelines were felt to be the most comprehensive review into risk factor modification in atherosclerotic disease especially given the known association between PAD and cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Collected data was compared to these guidelines to assess treatment provided in primary care.
Results Demographics.Of the forty patients, 31 were male and 9 were female. The median age was 67.5 years (46 to 88) and the self-reported exercise tolerance varied from 50 yards to 0.5 miles. Three patients reported episodic rest pain but had ABPI’s that fell within the reference range for this study. Thirteen patients had co-existing disease due to atherosclerosis; 6 patients had angina, 3 patients had previous transient ischemic events or cerebral vascular accidents and 7 patients had undergone coronary artery bypass grafting.
Table 1 summarises the key findings. There was a vast variation in both risk factors assessed and risk factors modified in primary care. The values given for the number of patients assessed and treated is a percentage of all patients with that specific risk factor.
Table 1: Risk factor assessment and modification by general practitioners.
Modification (treatment) of risk factors.Diabetes Mellitus: Within our study population only 3 patients had type I diabetes mellitus. Four patients had their diabetes treated with strict dietary control only, 8 patients were took oral hypoglycaemic agents and 4 patients regularly used intramuscular insulin injection regime to control their diabetes. Only three patients HbA1c was under the JBS2 [standard 1 ref] audit figure of <7.5. Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Thirty four (85%) were on HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) therapy. All patients, in whom a cholesterol level had been checked by their general practitioner, were found to have a cholesterol level below the JBS2 guidelines of <4. All of these patients were on statin therapy.16 patients (40%) had serum triglycerides measured. These patients were all on statin therapy and levels were found acceptable on this therapy (<150 mg/dl).Hypertension: Sixteen patients were taking anti-hypertensive medication. There was a range of anti-hypertensive medication used; 12 patients were on beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents, 13 on angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, 7 patients were on a diuretic and 5 on a calcium channel blocking medications. A total of 17 patients were on multiple medications for control of their hypertension. Due to the presence of peripheral vascular disease in our study population, and further atherosclerotic disease in 13 patients, the ‘high risk’ audit figure (JBS2 guidelines) for hypertension (140/80) was used to compare our study group.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �12
Smoking: Of the 40 patients, 12 were still smoking although 4 had been offered help and one of those patients was still smoking over 20 cigarettes per day. Thirteen patients were ex-smokers and of these 3 had been offered counselling by their general practitioner.Weight and Exercise: No patients had their body mass index (BMI) assessed by their general practitioner in the 6 months prior to referral. However, 5 patients had been offered counselling by their general practitioner at some point prior to referral. Sixty three percent of patients were found to have a BMI>25 at presentation to the vascular clinic.Only 2 patients (5%) had been given any advice or information concerning exercise regimes (either as part of a weight loss regime or for symptom control).Anti-platelet agents: Thirty three (83%) patients were on an anti-platelet agent. Seventy two percent of these patients were prescribed aspirin and 3% clopidogrel.
Discussion Risk factor modification in peripheral arterial disease is of key importance in its progression and prognosis. We have found a massive variation in both the assessment and the modification of risk factors in primary care prior to secondary care referral. It is important to note to connection between cardiovascular disease and peripheral artery disease and risk factor modification is key for both. It is of great concern that our results have illustrated a poor rate of assessment of hypertension (38%), smoking habits (33%) and weight (0%) is concerning. The poor rate of acceptable (in comparison to national guidance) of risk factor modification, especially in diabetic patients is also of great concern.Our results our similar to other studies looking into treatment in primary care which illustrate awareness and control of these risk factors to be poor6,11.Smoking, despite being the single most important risk factor for peripheral arterial disease, was poorly treated. Only 4 patients that were smoking were offered advice or access to counselling. Studies have shown that written or oral advice on smoking cessation may be effective5,12,13.Only 79% of diabetic patients had HbA1c levels performed within six months of referral and only 25% of these met the JBS2 guidance. Tight glycaemic control is important in peripheral artery disease and diabetic patients can gain more benefit from medical treatment of cardiovascular disease, however they respond less well to surgical intervention 5. Peripheral arterial disease is often more severe and progresses more aggressively in diabetic patients leading to both micro and macro-vascular complications, therefore regular checks on glycaemic control and adjustment of therapy are essential14.Cholesterol was the risk factor that was checked in most patients (94%) and treated to an acceptable standard. This may be because of the ease of commencing HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) therapy. Statins have been shown not only to reduce the risk of death, coronary heart disease and cerebral vascular events but also the need for revascularization in patients with peripheral vascular disease15.Results concerning hypertension revealed a poor both assessment and modification in primary care. Only 38% of patients having their blood pressures checked in the 6 months prior to referral and only 40% of patients were on sufficient medication to treat their hypertension. Good hypertensive control is well known to be beneficial when looking at overall atherosclerotic disease but specifically in cerebral vascular and cardiac events 5,10.Anti-platelet therapy was on the whole used appropriately with 72% of patients taking aspirin and 3% taking the second-line anti-platelet clopidogrel. All patients with peripheral vascular disease should be on anti-platelet therapy, unless there are an absolute indication as evidence indicates that it reduces the risk of serious vascular events and vascular death in patients with peripheral arterial disease16. Weight was the most poorly checked (0%) and treated risk factor. We found that 63% of patients referred to the vascular clinic in this study had a BMI >25. As weight, in addition to waist circumference, is an important risk factor in cardiovascular disease, it should be assessed in all patients presenting with symptoms of peripheral vascular disease17. Obesity often co-exists with other atherosclerotic risk factors and its treatment is important for long term prognosis18. Weight reduction in obese patients with peripheral artery disease can also help with symptom control and help should be offered to overweight patients.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �13
As care for peripheral arterial disease moves further into the field of primary care, improved risk factor modification is important. An awareness of risk factor assessment and modification as well as national guidelines is essential. This may be accomplished by vascular study days, seminars and courses led by vascular physicians and surgeons. Visits to practices by vascular clinical nurse specialists may aid in awareness. A further potential to increase risk factor modification would be to implement a payment by results schemes similar to those used in the primary care management of hypertension.
References: 1. Crane, J., Cheshire, N. Clinical review: Recent developments in vascular surgery. British Medical Journal. 2003;327:911-9152. Leng, C., Lee, A., Fowkers, G., Whiteman, M., Dunbar, J., Housley, E. et al. Incidence, Natural History and Cardiovascular Events in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Peripheral Arterial Disease in the General Population. International Journal of Epidemiology. 1996; 25: 1172–1181.3. Bendermacher, B., Willigendael, E., Teijink, J., Prins, M. Medical management of peripheral arterial disease Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis. 2005: 3(8),:1628–1637.4. Vogt, M., McKenna, M., Anderson, S., Wolfson, S., Kuller, L. The relationship between ankle-arm index and mortality in older men and women. Journal of American Geriatric Society. 1993:41; 523-305. Burns, P., Gough, S., Bradbury, A. Clinical review: Management of peripheral arterial disease in primary care. British Medical Journal. 2003;326:584-588 6. Kuiper, N., Gordon, M., Roake, J., Lewis, D. Treating claudication in 5 words (stop smoking and keep walking) is no longer enough: an audit of risk factor management in patients prescribed exercise therapy in New Zealand. Journal of the New Zealand Medical Association. 2006:119(1231); 1-8 Journal of the New Zealand7. Lamont, P., Bradbury, A., Campbell, H., Davies, J., Gibbons, C., Hamilton, G. et al. Provision of Vascular Services. The Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland. 20048. NHS Quality Improvement Scotland. Vascular services; Care of the Patient with Vascular Disease. Department of Health (Scotland) October 20039. World Health Organisation. Cardiovascular disease: Prevention and control. WHO 199710. Joint British Societies’ guidelines on prevention of Cardiovascular disease in clinical practice. (JBS2) Heart. 2005: 91; Supplement V.11. Hirsch, A., Criqui, M., Treat-Jacobsen, D., Regensteiner, J., Creager, M. Olin, J. et al. Peripheral Arterial Disease Detection, Awareness, and Treatment in Primary Care. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2001;286:1317-1324. 12. Russell, M., Wilson, C., Taylor, C., Baker, C. Effect of general practitioners’ advice against smoking. British Medical Journal. 1979: 28(2):6184:231-23513. Gilpin, E., Pierce, J., Johnson, M., Bal, D. Physician advice to quit smoking: results from the 1990 Californian Tobacco Survey. Journal of General Internal Medicine. 1993:8(10); 549-5314. Marso, P., Hiatt, W. Peripheral Arterial Disease in Patients with Diabetes. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2006:47;921-915. Collins, R., Peto, R., Armitage, J. The MRC/BHF Heart Protection Study: preliminary results. International Journal of Clinical Practice. 2002 Jan-Feb;56(1):53-6.16. Robless, P., Mikhailidis, D., Stansby, G. Systematic review of antiplatelet therapy for the prevention of myocardial infarction, stroke or vascular death in patients with peripheral vascular disease. British Journal of Surgery 2001 Jun; 88 (6): 787-80017. Arterburn, D., Noel, P. Clinical review: Extracts from “Clinical Evidence”: Obesity .British Medical Journal 2001;322:1406-1409 18. Han TS, van Leer EM, Seidell JC, Lean MEJ. Waist circumference action levels in the identification of cardiovascular risk factors: prevalence study in a random sample. British Medical Journal 1995;311:1401-1405
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �14
Wessex Scientific
Endovenous Laser Ablation Training CourseJanuary 16th, 2016, Prime Health Clinic, Weybridge, Surrey, UK
In response to the recent NICE recommendations we are organising a 3-stage training programme for vascular surgeons and supporting healthcare workers comprising vascular ultrasound and endovenous laser ablation training courses and on-site assistance in establishing an EVLA service in hospital unit or clinic. The EVLA training course aims to provide training in endovenous laser ablation of the lower limb veins including ultrasound guided simulation and live demonstration of endovascular laser ablation techniques.
Introduction to Ultrasound ImagingMarch 26th-27th, 2016, Mindray UK, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, UK
RCR accreditation applied forThis is a 2-day course/workshop for those new or of limited experience to medical ultrasound imaging. The course is a combination of lectures, demonstrations and workshop sessions and is designed to provide a good practical introduction to medical imaging techniques. On Day 1 there will be presentations and associated workshops on each of the four main ultrasound modalities including B-scan imaging, pulsed Doppler, colour and power Doppler imaging. Emphasis will be on familiarization and manipulating the equipment controls and optimizing image and signal quality. On Day 2 there will be sessions introducing specialist applications of ultrasound including: general abdominal and aortic aneurysm imaging, musculo-skeletal; emergency medicine FAST imaging, vascular, and vascular access.
Vascular Ultrasound Course (UK10 CPD points RCR accreditation)March 17th-18th Queen Elizabeth Postgraduate Medical Centre, Birmingham
This course covers the application of ultrasound techniques in the investigation of abdominal, extra & intra-cranial and peripheral vasculature. The emphasis will be on practical hands-on workshops using
a range of ultrasound systems and there will be opportunity to use a limb phantom for training in ultrasound monitoring of EVLA procedures.
For further information contact: The Secretariat, email: [email protected];
or visit our website: www.wessexscientific.com
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �15
James Purdie Prize Presentations 2015
Welcome to the prize presentation session for the Society of Vascular Nurses Conference for 2015. This year I have taken over from Michael Van Orsouw in organising this part of the conference which is always very enjoyable. We have wide variety of subjects being covered which reflects the variety of roles of our members and the complexity of the patients they care for. We are also pleased to have representation from the MDT with presentations from physiotherapists this year, which reflects the variety of members to the SVN.
We will once again ask two members of the audience to mark the presentations, so please do volunteer to help us making the difficult choice of finding a winner.
For the first year, the winner of the James Purdie prize has been invited into the Vascular Society conference quick fire session on Thursday afternoon. For this reason the winning presentation will be announced at the end of the morning sessions, so that the winner will have time to prepare to present to the Vascular Society, should they choose to accept. This is an exciting opportunity for the winner, having the chance to speak at both conferences.
You will see that the prize session is a great opportunity to present your work, in a friendly environment. You are all carrying out work, and taking part in projects that could be presented, and this is good place to let others know about it. Please do consider applying for conference 2016. If you would like to email me about this, I would be very happy to discuss [email protected]
As always we thank the Circulation Foundation for their ongoing support of the James Purdie prize and the generous donation of £500 for the winning presentation.
I wish all the presenters the best of luck, and I hope you enjoy this session.
Nikki FenwickSVN Vice-President
Score 0 – no 1-partly 2-yes
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �16
A Six month review of patients following major lower limb amputation
Joanne Barnes
Physiotherapist Vascular Surgery, St Thomas Hospital, London
ObjectivesSix month review of patients following major lower limb amputation and trends in demographics, level and side of amputation, pre operative, post operative and total length of stay (LOS) in an acute hospital.
MethodsRetrospective audit of patient’s hospital records was undertaken. Admissions from October 2013 – March 2014 were scrutinized. In addition to demographic, amputation and discharge destination, mortality and the Charleston index score was collated.
ResultsThere were a total of 40 male and 11 female patients with 3 perioperative deaths during this period. Average age was 62 years with average Charleston index score of 5. The majority of operations were below knee amputations (29) followed by above knee amputations (24) and 6 through knee amputations, including 5 revisions to a higher level. The average pre operative LOS was 13 days, post operative LOS was 33 days and a total LOS of 44 days. Fifty three percent were transferred to the specialist amputee inpatient rehabilitation. Other discharge destinations included previous nursing home (NH), new NH placement, local inpatient rehabilitation, local hospital and home.
Conclusions There were a greater proportion of males undergoing amputation. Post operative LOS was greater than expected especially in those waiting for new nursing home placement (3) or transfer to local hospital (3). Over 50% of patients were transferred to a specialist amputee inpatient rehabilitation centre. The trust is achieving the vascular society QUIF ratio of 1:1 AK/BK amputations and had a perioperative mortality rate of 5.8% moving towards the target for 2015.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �17
Pressure damage to heels and the role of the Vascular Nurse Specialist – a work in progressMaria Nichols
Vascular Nurse Specialist, Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust, Worthing
IntroductionAround 412,000 people in the UK are likely to develop a pressure ulcer every year (Bennett et al, 2004) with the average cost to treat one category IV pressure ulcer, £10,551 per episode (Bennett et al, 2004). 20-30% of reported pressure damage is to heels, the second highest incidence of pressure damage. The heel is the most common site for deep tissue injury (Salcido and Ahn, 2010).Heel ulcers can endanger limb viability with up to 42% of patients with a heel ulcer requiring amputation.
Literature informs us that there is a relationship between pressure damage and Peripheral Arterial Disease yet, how many of our patients with heel pressure damage have an ABPI done to inform the clinical decision making process and educate our patients?
When a question was sent to the local tissue viability group, that covers the south of England, does anyone currently complete APBI’s on patients with category 3 or 4 pressure damage to the heel?. There was poor feedback poor from the group-only 5 responses and no clear definition.
ObjectivesTo highlight awareness and understanding with tissue viability colleagues to enable a more pro-active approach to management –plan to develop service approach in Western Hospital Trust.
ResultsThere is no optimal heel prevention that research findings demonstrate is more effective than another.
ConclusionTo develop an education model to highlight awareness that will allow us to be more proactive and help reduce incidences of heel pressure damage acquired in hospital.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �18
The Reduction of Surgical Site Infection in Vascular Patients Talia Lea, Michael Van Orsouw, Lillian Chiwera, Rachel Bell
Vascular Clinical Nurse Specialist, St Thomas Hospital, London
IntroductionSurgical site infection (SSI) is a major problem particularly after peripheral vascular surgery (Turtiainen et al 2014). SSIs increase the cost of vascular surgery and the risk of major amputations, as well as the mortality.(Turtiainen et al, 2010; Ngyen et al, 2007 and Pounds et al, 2005) The incidence of SSI in patients undergoing peripheral vascular surgery procedures ranges from 4% to 27% according to prospective studies. (Turtiainen et al, 2010 ; Ngyen et al, 2007 and Pounds et al, 2005).
Methods Anecdotally it was felt that there was a high level of surgical site infection in the vascular population. Therefore from 2009 all patients undergoing surgery were monitored for the presence of surgical site infection in partnership with the infection control team. This data is sent to Public Health England. Once the initial SSI rate was established several measures were introduced including pre-operative cleansing wipes, evidence based surgical scrub replaced existing solution, continuous SSI auditing and a root cause analysis to establish causation of all identified SSIs .
ResultsThe initial results from 2009 demonstrated an infection rate of 14.5%. The infection rate began to decline year on year and the results from 2014 found the SSI rate to be 2.7%.
Conclusion The infection rates of patients can be reduced by the introduction of a strict protocol to prevent SSI.
References1. Turtianen J., Hakala T., Hakkarainen T., Karhukopi J. (2014). The Impact of Surgical Wound Bacterial Colonisation on the Incidence of Surgical Site Infection After Lower Limb Vascular Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study. European Journal Of Vascular Surgery, 47(4) 411-417 2.Turtiainen J., Saimanen E., Partio T., Kärkkäinen J., Kiviniemi V., Mäkinen K., Hakala T. (2010). Surgical wound infections after vascular surgery: prospective multicenter observational study. Scandinavian Journal of Surgery, 99 (3) 167–1723. Ngyen L., Brahmanandam S., Bandyk, D., Belkin M., Clowes, A., Moneta G., Conte M. (2007). Female gender and oral anticoagulants are associated with wound complications in lower extremity vein bypass: an analysis of 1404 operations for critical limb ischemia. Journal of Vascular Surgery, 46 (6) 1191–1197 4. Pounds L., Montes-Walters, M., Mayhall, P., Falk, Sanderson E., Hunter G., Killewich L. (2005). A changing pattern of infection after major vascular reconstructions. Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, 39 (6) 511–517
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �19
Transforming diabetic foot care: Vascular Nurse Specialist (VNS) impact in the foot protection team
Leanne Atkin, Clare Barker
Vascular Nurse Specialist, Mid Yorkshire NHS Trust, Wakefield
BackgroundDiabetic Foot Protection Teams (DFPT) are proven to be beneficial in reducing the number of amputations in patients with diabetes (NICE, 2015). It is known that Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) affects 1 in 3 people with diabetes over the age of 50, (NICE, 2015). DFPTs are normally staffed by podiatry professionals, trained in the assessment of lower limb arterial supply, but do not have direct links to the vascular service. This abstract outlines the impact of a VNS joining the foot protection team.
Aim: To ascertain the impact of a VNS joining the foot protection team.
Method: Funding was gained from local commissions to establish DFPT which included a VNS. Three clinics per week were created, with a VNS at each session. The VNS completed a vascular assessment for each patient, not only checking foot pulse status and Doppler assessment but questioning patients on symptoms of PAD, checking BMT compliance and severity of symptoms. A database was compiled of the number of patients seen and interventions made.
Results: Within an 8 month period 550 patients of amber or red diabetic risk were seen in the DFPT, of these the VNS assessed 360. A large portion of these patients were already identified as having PAD. However, the VNS made 101 interventions and recommendations on risk management, including BMT, BP management, and smoking cessation. The VNS identified 7 patients that required urgent assessment (critical limb ischaemia), due to the VNS links patients were directly referred and seen within 24 hours. A further 25 patients were identified as requiring further investigation or intervention due to ulceration or lifestyle limiting disease, again direct referrals were made into local services. 9 patients were newly identified as having PAD, these patients were added to the QoF register and appropriate BMT was commenced.
Conclusion: The inclusion of a VNS in the DFPT aids identification and management of patients with PAD, this early intervention will reduce the incidence of amputations and ultimately reduce the incidence of heart attack and strokes.
References: NICE (2015) NICE guideline 19: Diabetic foot problems: prevention and management. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng19/chapter/Key-priorities-for-implementation Accessed 3/9/15
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �20
Evaluating the 7-day physiotherapy service in vascular surgery.
Matthew Fuller
Physiotherapist Vascular Surgery, St Thomas Hospital, London
ObjectiveEvaluate the introduction of a dedicated 7-day physiotherapy service in a tertiary vascular unit. The service has moved from Monday to Friday 8:30 - 16:45 to 8:30 – 20:00, 7-days a week.
Methods Seventy patient questionnaires conducted pre/post introduction of the service and with 25 members of the multidisciplinary team (surgeon, nurses, and podiatrist) post introduction. Within physiotherapy changes to work-life balance and patient care were evaluated post introduction.
ResultsPatient data was collected from a wide cohort (open and endovascular aortic and lower-limb) on discharge pre/post implementation (Feb-march-2014 and Jan-feb-2015). The sample was one of convenience with no refusals to participate.
Patients reported a significant increase in dose of therapy (P=0.00), being prepared for discharge (P=0.028) and overall satisfaction with their physiotherapy (P=0.047) post introduction.
MDT colleagues were asked 9 questions, mixture of Yes/No, numerical scale and open with a return rate = 25/39. They reported good awareness and increased satisfaction with service delivery. Comments included: “Earlier assessment and discharge with fewer delays from mobility/function. Mobility progressing over the weekend. Quicker overall recovery”
Within physiotherapy 7-day services was viewed positively, with good use of the extra time, utilisation by the MDT and quicker assessment and discharge of patients. There was minimal disruption to work-life balance or difficulties with commuting.
Perceived weaknesses were continuity of care and loss of structured equitable teaching within the team.
ConclusionsImplementing 7-day physiotherapy in acute vascular services has beneficial outcomes in terms of patient satisfaction, speed of assessment and discharge, increased dose of therapy and utilisation by the MDT.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �21
A multi-disciplinary, nurse-led study identifies obstacles to safer aortic surgery.R. Lear, C. Riga, AD. Godfrey, E. Falaschetti, N. Cheshire, I. Van-Herzeele, C. Norton, C. Vincent, AW. Darzi, CD. Bicknell
Background & aims: Patient risk factors and technical skills are known to influence outcomes in aortic surgery. It is recognized that system factors such as teamwork and the environment may also shape outcomes, but system errors occurring during aortic procedures have not yet been investigated. This study has three objectives: to identify the range of errors occurring during aortic surgery, to investigate determinants of errors, and to explore associations between errors and outcomes.
Methods: In a nurse-led, multi-centre, observational study, twenty vascular teams at ten English hospitals trained to undertake structured, post-operative debriefs, in order to report system errors occurring in open/endovascular aortic procedures. Demographics (patient/team/procedural), error mechanisms and impact (harm/delay) were recorded.
Results: In 185 aortic cases, teams reported a median of 3 errors/procedure (interquartile range 2-6). Most frequently reported errors were equipment unavailability or malfunction. Most frequent major errors were communication failures between team members. Fourteen errors directly harmed twelve patients. Significant predictors of increased error rate were: endovascular versus open repair (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) for open repair: 0.71; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57-0.88, p=0.002); thoracic aneurysms relative to other aortic pathologies (IRR 2.07; CI 1.39-3.08, p<0.001); equipment unfamiliarity (IRR 1.52; CI 1.20-1.91, p<0.001). Major errors were associated with reoperation (p=0.01), major complications (p=0.03) and death (p=0.03).
Conclusions: System errors in aortic procedures are common, and are directly associated with patient harm. In line with new safety standards for surgery, multi-disciplinary team-training is recommended to reduce patient harm through improved team communication and familiarity with emerging technologies.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �22
ANNOUNCING...
Celebrating 20 years of Gloucestershire Leg Ulcer Service
Chronic Venous Leg Ulcers:Perspectives In ManagementMonday, 18th January 2016at theCheltenham Chase HotelShurdington Road, BrockworthGloucestershire, GL3 4PBFor more information, please contact Colin Davies on 0300 422 3480 or email: [email protected]
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �23
Interview with Claire StephensFounder and Chief Executive Officer: WoundCare4HeroesWhat is your background and how did you become involved with Woundcare4Heroes?I undertook nurse training at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, assuming several lead nurse roles and working within specialties including vascular surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, critical care and tissue viability research during my first 17 years as a nurse. My postgraduate education in wound healing and tissue repair was undertaken at Cardiff University.
Following several challenging wound care and research roles within the NHS and corporately, I joined the British Army (QARANC) as a Nursing officer (Captain) to take up role as intensive care specialist wound care lead. I unfortunately sustained an injury and my military career was cut short. During my own rehabilitation and discharge back to civilian life I experienced the gaps between MoD and NHS care transition and the need to support our NHS to bridge the gap of trauma aftercare for injured veterans. Woundcare4Heroes “idea” came from this experience and the concept was discussed with my colleague Professor Col Steve Jeffery, resulting in us co-founded the charity during 2011 an officially launching in 2012 with full charity registration being granted.
What is your role within WC4H?I am founder, CEO and one of the complex wound managers of Woundcare4Heroes. At board level my role is to drive and grow the charity with the great team of trustees supporting this cause. At operational level I work as one of 3 Nurse Consultants across the country as a complex wound manager and case pathway assessor.
What in your opinion has been the most significant development in WC4H?Woundcare4Heroes are still a relatively new charity and we are proud of the progress we have made to date. The most significant development is that of the SOS (Sir Oswald Stoll Foundation) service for 220 veterans. We have achieved a great deal with very little resource and very little finance so that in itself is fairly significant.
Do you have a key mentor who deeply inspired your professional career?Throughout my career many people have inspired me for many different reasons. It may be due to their selfless commitment, passion and drive or their genuine empathy, skill and knowledge. Two people who truly inspire and mentor me professionally are Professor Sir Keith Porter for all of the trauma advancements he has driven but also as someone who remains at the rock face, committed to improving lives and patient focussed. Professor Col Steve Jeffery for the most incredible work he has undertaken treating veterans injured during the Afghanistan conflict and for raising the profile of ballistic injury within the wound care arena. I consider Woundcare4Heroes and myself extremely lucky to have two such excellent surgeons to be working alongside.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �24
What have been the best and worst moments during your career?I couldn’t say that I have had a worst moment, numerous extensive challenges yes, but I thrive on these challenges. I would have to say that the best is yet to come when Woundcare4Heroes is helping all physically injured veterans with lifelong care and a secure system is in place for a United Kingdom Central Bureau of Veteran Health. The worst moment will be when I have to hang up my hat.
What has been your greatest achievement, award or honour?The Army Officer selection process was probably my most challenging achievement and it is true that you are pushed to the limits both mentally and physically. The charity has to be the ultimate greatest achievement and we have won awards for our work but they seem insignificant when compared to our charity end points of seeing veterans lives change for the better as a result of our help is the greatest achievement and reward.
How do you see W4H developing in the future?The development of the United Kingdom Central Bureau for Veteran Health and national networks and clinics.
What were your aspirations when you were young, did you think it would be a role similar to you have now?I always wanted to be a nurse but never dreamed I would be reflecting back on the military and charity founding part.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?I am full of surprises but If I told you I would have to kill you …….. Do you have unaccomplished goals in your career that you are yet to achieve?I will always have these as I consistently push to reach a goal and set the next.
Registered Charity: 1149034
Correspondence address:WC4H, PO Box 5019Sheffield, S20 9EY
Registered address:Simon Weston Consulting SuiteWelsh Wound Innovation Centre
Ynysmaerdy, PontyclunRhondda Cynon Taff, Wales. CF72
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �25
SVN Evening Symposium 11th November 2015
5.30 - 7.30pmBournemouth Highcliff Marriott in the Bryanston Suite
The SVN would like to thank the following companies for supporting the event
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �26
The Society of Vascular Nurses SVN Life Time Achievement Award for services to vascular
nursing 2016
The society of vascular nurses is calling for applicants for this distinguished award, established in 2008. The award will be presented in recognition of outstanding leadership, participation and dedication to patients with vascular disease. Nominations will be reviewed by the committee and the award will be presented at the annual SVN conference, which this year will be in Bournemouth. The worthy recipient of this award will receive free lifetime membership to the society of vascular nurses, and free lifetime conference entry.
If you know of a nurse who you feel deserves this award, please submit your nomination with a 150 word attachment to support the application.
Eligibility requirements: The nominee for the award for Services to Vascular Nursing must meet the following criteria.
• Registered nurse or health care assistant working within the UK • Be involved in direct vascular patient care in either a ward, theatre, outpatient or
community setting • Nominator or nominee need not be a member of the SVN
NOMINEE Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………
Address: ………………………………………………………………………………………………...
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Phone: …………………………………………………... Email: ……………………………………..
NOMINATOR Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………
Address: …………………………………………………………………………………………………
Phone: ……………………………………………………. Email: ……………………………………
Please submit to Kate Rowlands
VNS c/o Ward B2 Vascular
University Hospital of Wales Heath Park
Cardiff CF14 4XW
Tel: 02920 742699
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �27
The SVN is very proud of all the nurses who care for patients with vascular disease. We also know that there are some nurses that are going the extra mile to improve patient care, or make a difference to the experience felt by patients with vascular disease.
The award for services to vascular nursing could be given to a nurse you know; someone who has made an impression upon you for their work and dedication in caring for patients with vascular disease. Neither the nominated or nominator does not have to be a member of the SVN, although new members are always welcome!
Have you worked with someone you feel qualifies for this award? This person maybe a member of your team, either in the ward area, theatres or a clinic setting, and as a junior or senior colleague. The award is also open to both qualified and unqualified nurses.
Many hospitals and vascular units have seen changes over the last few years and some nurses are either developing or supporting new vascular services. Perhaps one of these nurses might inspire you to send in a nomination?
To nominate someone, all you have to do is fill in the nomination form in this newsletter, and send it to Kate Rowlands (address provided) with a supporting summary (150 words). Information can also be found on our website.
In addition to a certificate, which acknowledges their work, the worthy recipient of this award will receive free lifetime membership to the society of vascular nurses, and free lifetime conference entry. The award will be presented at the SVN conference 2016.
So, does someone you know need to be recognised for their dedication, or inspiring work? Have a think about who you would like the SVN to consider for this prestigious award and complete the nomination form today.
Thank youKate RowlandsVascular Nurse Specialist & Clinical AAA MDT CoordinatorCardiff Regional Vascular UnitTel 0292074 2699Pager 07623 906342
SVN Life Time Achievement Award for Services to Vascular Nursing
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �28
TREASURER’S REPORTApril 2014 - March 2015
The Society of Vascular Nurses membership includes individual members and ward memberships. All parts of the UK are represented. The annual membership fees remain at £20 for individual membership (£25 for international membership) and £100 for ward membership. The total income from membership in 14/15 was £1,985.
The SVN offers bursaries to members of up to £500 each, which can be used for any purpose that enhances practice and development. This year the SVN gave out four bursaries totaling £879. If requested, the SVN also provides funding up to £150 for regional meetings organized by a member but no such funding was requested in 2014/2015.
The SVN website has been rebuilt, updated and re launched following extensive work behind the scenes by the committee. The new website is more contemporary, easier for members to negotiate and enables online membership subscription and conference booking. The website expenses are therefore reflective at £5,027. The website should stand the test of time and will be more useful and informative to members.
The SVN committee continues to produce a journal style A5 quarterly newsletter with the conference booklet being incorporated into quarter four’s issue. Some income has been obtained to cover printing costs through the inclusion of a company advertisement. The newsletter therefore gave us a profit of £717.
The committee meets on four occasions throughout the year. The meetings are usually held at the Royal College of Surgeons and the committee is very grateful to the College for their loan of this excellent facility. Committee members are reimbursed for reasonable travel and accommodation expenses incurred to attend the meetings and for any other designated duties on behalf of the society. Every effort is made to ensure that costs are kept to a minimum. Committee expenses in the year 14/15 were £2,549. The SVN committee undertake all administration for the society themselves to avoid addition costs. Administration and stationary expenses in 14/15 were £1,071.
The 21st annual conference in November 2014 was held in Glasgow at the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre. In previous years the SVN have received a grant from the Vascular Society towards our conference expenses. This year the VS, who book the venue each year on our behalf in collaboration, very kindly waived the venue and catering costs in lieu of a grant and the SVN is very grateful to the VS for this. Conference fees brought in £3,240 and there was a surplus of £1,018 after administration costs and committee and speakers expenses were accounted for.
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �29
For the third year running the SVN held an evening symposium the night before our conference. This event was free to conference delegates and is an opportunity to network as well as meet relevant companies with products related to vascular disease, though the highlight of the evening was our guest speaker. Through company sponsorship the symposium gave us an income of £3,099.
The Society of Vascular Nurses accounts for the year ending March 2015 have been audited by an independent accountant. At the end of the financial year the SVN had assets of £20,227.
Jayne Burns, TreasurerMay 2015
SVN Bursary News
The SVN committee can award 4 bursaries per year for members of up to £500 each.
Members can apply for a bursary via our website if they would like help with funding an undertaking associated with vascular nursing, for example a course, study aids or attendance at conference.
So far in this financial year (15/16) there have been 3 applications for a bursary and all 3 applications were successful.
Our first applicant was awarded £500 towards an online module in Vascular Disease Management at Edgehill University. She said the course was an excellent way to help her enhance patient care and it led on to her securing a new role as a specialist vascular nurse in a new major arterial centre.
Our second successful applicant, who is a community based vascular nurse specialist, received £350 towards her MSc dissertation tuition fees. She is exploring the outcomes related to different categories of compression bandaging in the treatment of leg ulcers. She will be able to apply her learning towards the achievement of patient centred care.
In September I posted a cheque for £500 to our third successful applicant. She has recently commenced the Vascular Disease Management online module at Edgehill University. She is a vascular ward nurse who felt there was insufficient local training in vascular nursing and therefore feels this is a great opportunity to develop her knowledge and skills in caring for vascular patients.
Well done to the 3 successful applicants so far, both on your bursary awards and your invaluable studies. Members, there is still one more bursary available for this year!
Jayne Burns Treasurer and Bursaries
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �30
SVN CONFERENCE1st DECEMBER 2016, Manchester Central
SAVE THE DATE
SVN AGM AGENDA 1.45pm 12/11/15
Financial reportPresidents reportElection of new committee member (s)Ward membership, what does this mean and what should ward members be entitled to? ie. Should ward members have the same entitlement as individual members?SVN will become a committee elected positionClarification of how many bursaries can be allocated per year and who should be eligible
svn.org.uk 4th Quarter 2015
Vascular Matters �31
SVN Conference Programme – Bournemouth 201508.55 Welcome and James Purdie Prize Presentations (see abstracts for more details)
10.15 Coffee
10.45 Symposium 1:Lower Limb Amputation• NCPOD – Lower Limb Amputation: Working TogetherProf. Michael Gough, NCPOD Clinical Co-ordinator, Consultant Vascular Surgeon. Leeds • Prosthetic’s provided to patients following an amputationJohn Sullivan, Prosthetist • What is it like to live with an Amputation?John McKenna
11.45 Symposium 2: Deep Venous Disease• What is Deep Venous Disease?Steve Black, Consultant Vascular Surgeon, London • Post-operative Care after Deep Venous SurgeryBelen Quintana, Vascular Nurse Specialist, London • Anti-coagulation for Patients with Deep Venous DiseaseJason Mainwaring, Haematologist, Bournemouth
12.45 Award Presentations
13.00 Lunch
13.45 AGM (SVN members only)
14.00 Symposium 3: Impact of Centralisation on the Diabetic Foot• Centralisation Pathway for the Diabetic FootRobert Hinchliffe, Consultant Vascular Surgeon, London • The Impact on the Nurse Specialist in the HubClare Martin, Lead Vascular Nurse Specialist, Frimley • The Impact on the Nurse Specialist in the SpokeLouise Wilson, Vascular Nurse Specialist, Eastbourne
15.00 Coffee
15.30 Symposium 4: AAA Screening Programme• The Screening ProgrammeTim Lees, Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Newcastle • The Role of the Nurse SpecialistShelagh Murray, Vascular Nurse Specialist, London
16.00 Debate: Can Vascular Nurse Specialist’s become too Advanced?For the Motion: Michael Van Orsouw, Vascular Matron, London & Olumfemi Oshin, Vascular registrar, South MerseysideAgainst the Motion: Louise Allen, Vascular Nurse Specialist, London & Shiva Dindyal, Senior Specialist Registrar, London
16.30 Close of Meeting
