St. Columcille's Hospital annual report 1997

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Authors St. Columcille's Hospital, Dublin

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ST. COLUMCILLES HOSPITAL

Loughlinstown, Co. Dublin

Dublin Corporation

Cllr. R. Shorthall, T.D., (Chairperson), 12 lveragh Road, Whitehall, Dublin 9.

Cllr. B. Briscoe, T.D. Dail Eireann, D2.

Cllr. E. Byrne,T.D. 32 Ashdale Road, Terenure, Dublin 6W.

Cllr. I. Callely, T.D. 7 St. Laurence Road, Clontarf, Dublin 3.

Cllr. j. Connolly, 39 Hughes Road South, Walkinstown, Dublin 12.

Sen. 1. Doyle, 14 Simmonscourt Tce, Donnybrook, Dublin 4.

Cllr. M. Barrett, 102 Clasnevin Avenue, Dublin 11.

Dublin South County Council

Cllr. C. O'Connor, C/o South Dublin Council, P.O. Box 4122, Tallaght Dublin 24.

Cllr. Stanley Laing, 86 Templeville Road, Terenure, D 6W.

Cllr. P. Upton, T.D., 1 College Drive, Templeogue, D 6W.

Fingal County Council

Cllr. C. Gallagher, 16 Glasmore Park, Swords, Co. Dublin v i ce Chairman).

Cllr. A. Devitt, Lispopple, Swords, Co. Dublin.

Cllr. K. Farrell, C/o Joe Fegan, Channel Road, Rush, Co. Dublin.

Dun IaoghaireIRathdown County Council

Cllr. B. Coffey, Rere 40 Northumberland Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.

Cllr. 0. Mitchell, 18 Ballawley Court, Sandyford Road, Dublin 14.

Cllr. I . Dillon-Byrne, Siichester House, Silchester Road, Glenageary, Co. Dublin.

Kildare County Council

Cllr. C. Brady, Main Street, Maynooth, Co. Kildare.

Cllr. 1. Reilly, Ballinakill, Carbury, Co. Kildare.

Cllr. M. McWey, Tower View Park, Kildare, Co. Kildare.

Wicklow County Council

Cllr. K. Ryan, Hilltop, Nurseries, Carnew, Co. Wicklow.

Cllr. T. Keenan, 1 Lourdes Crescent, Aughrim, Co. Wicklow.

CIIr. T. Cullen, Deerpark, Baltinglass, Co. Wicklow.

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Registered Medical Practitioners

Dr. 1. Fennell, St. Columcilles Hospital, Loughlinstown, Co. Dublin.

Dr. 5. Barry, Cluain Mhuire Service, Blackrock, Co. Dublin.

Dr. C. Smith, Central Mental Hospital, Dundrum, Dublin 14.

Dr. K. Harkin, 15 Crattan Crescent, Inchicore, Dublin 8.

Dr. R. Hawkins, 2 Duncairn Terrace, Bray, Co. Wicklow.

Dr. 1. Reilly, Fingal House, Lusk, Co. Dublin.

Dr. Marie Laffoy, 20 Avoca Park, Blackrock, Co. Dublin.

Dr. Phillip O'Connell, 57 Carysfort own;, Blackrock, Co. Dublin.

Registered Dentist

Dr. D. I. Keane, 130 Merrion Village, Dublin 4.

Registered General Nurse

Ms. Maria Hoban, 6 Ashgrove Crescent, Naas, Co. Kildare

Registered Psychiatric Nurse

Mr. G. Maguire, 1 The Strand, New Road, Donabate, Co. Dublin.

Registered Pharmaceutical Chemist

Mrs. B. Bonar, 9 Leopardstown Park, Blackrock, Co. Dublin.

Mr. Laurence Butler, 3 Whitehall Mews, Westminster Road, Foxrock, Dublin 18.

Mr. P Aspell, 61 College Park, Newbridge, Co. Kildare.

Cllr. Dr. W. O'Conneli, Vale Road, Arklow, Co. Wicklow.

Cllr. Catherine Quinn, 47 Beechwood Lawns, Rathcooie, Co. Dublin.

31 \ \ . \ ( , I 411 i i 1.1 \ ' \ !

Chief Executive Officer

Mr. P. I . Fitzpatrick

Programme Manager, Acute Hospitals &Services for the Elderly

Mr. Seamus O'Brien

Programme Manager, Community Services

Mr. Michael Walsh

Programme Manager, Health Promotion, Mental Health, Addiction & Social Development

Mr. Pat McLoughlin

Programme Manager, Services for Persons with Disabilities

Ms. Maureen Windle

Programme Manager, Children & Families

Ms. Brid Clarke

Finance Officer

Mr. Martin Gallagher

Personnel Officer

Ms. Mary Kelly

Technical Services Officer

Mr. 1. Curran

Director Of Public Health

Dr. B. O'Heriihy

Management Services Officer

Ms. Mary Crowe

Estate Management Officer

Mr. Phillip Doyle

Communications Director

Ms. Maureen Browne

Acute Hospital & Services for the Elderly

Mr. Gerry McGuire, Chairperson

Cllr. Roisin Shortall, T.D.

Cllr. Betty Coffey, Vice Chairperson

Ms. Marie Hoban

Cllr. Michael McWey

Dr. Marie Laffoy

Cllr. Gerry Brady

Cllr. lim Reilly

Dr. Ray Hawkins

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+ Hospital Management Committee

+ Casemix

+ Drugs and Therapeutics

+ Infection Control

+ Health & Safety

+ Radiation Safety

+ Medical Nursing Liaison

+ Procedure Committee

+ Complaints Committee

+ Medical Ethics

+ Library Committee

+ Medical Records Committee

+ Hospital Liaison Committee

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Dr. Hugh Gallagher, Chairperson

Mr. Gary Brow, Honourary Secretary

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+ Dr. John Fennell, Consultant Physician

+ Dr. Morgan Crowe, Consultant Physician in Geriatric Medicine

+ Dr. Denis Keating, Consultant Physician in Geriatric Medicine

+ Dr. Shaun O'Keeffe, Consultant Physician in Geriatric Medicine

+ Mr. Declan Magee, Consultant Surgeon

+ Mr. Stephen Sheehan, Consultant Surgeon

+ Mr. john Hyland, Consultant Surgeon

+ Mr. Gary Brow, Consultant Surgeon (Locum)

+ Dr. Hugh lordan, Consultant Radiologist

+ Dr. Derrnot Cantwell, Consultant Radiologist (Locum)

+ Dr. Kinross Burke, Consultant Anaesthetist

+ Dr. Patr~ck Benson, Consultant Anaesthet~st

+ Dr. Hugh Gallagher, Consultant Anaesthetist

+ Dr. Bernard Nally, Consultant Anaesthetist (Locum)

+ Dr. Niarnh Nolan, Consultant Histopathologist

+ Mr. Kieran O'Rourke, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

+ Mr. Eamon Kelly, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

+ Dr. Orla Shiel, Consultant ObstetricianIGynaecologist

+ Dr. Peter McParland, Consultant ObstetricianIGynaecologist

St. Columcilles Hospital, Loughlinstown provides services as listed here under to i ts immediate catchment area of South County Dublin and East Wicklow.

4 General Medical

i. Acute Elderly AssessmentIRehabilitation

+ Day Hospital for the Elderly

S7. General Surgery

J. Vascular Surgery

9 Orthopaedic Surgery

9 Dental Surgery

+ Intenswe Carelcoronary Care

d- Day Procedures

+ Accldent & Emergency (24 hour service)

4- Radiology

4- Pathology

4- Physiotherapy

+ Occupational Therapy

+ Speech Therapy

9 Out-patients (including Obstetrics/Gynaecology)

Peripheral Ante-Natal Clinics are serviced from the Hospital in conjunction with the National Maternity Hospital, Holles Street, at Arklow, Wicklow, Bray and Greystones.

The Hospital also provides a comprehensive service to the General Practitioners in the catchment area including direct access to:

P Radiology

i Pathology

+ Physiotherapy

i Diabetic

g. Dietetic

+ Endoscopy

+ Routine and Stress E.C.G.

+ Day Hospital (Elderly)

Mr. John Hempenstall

1997 was again a very busy year for St. Columcille's Hospital with activity levels in all Departments continuing at a high level.

The hospital had a total of 7485 admissions in 1997. The projected overall occupancy for it hospital in 1997 is 90%. There were 171 5 day procedures carried out in 1997 which is an increase of 151 over the previous year. There were a total of 18,210 attendances at Out-patients clinics in 1997 with first time attendances showing an increase of 2%.

The number of first time attendances at the Accident & Emergency Department was 23,895 an increase of 11 71 on 1996. There were 4928 admissions through the Accident & Emergency. Department which represents 70% of total admissions for the year.

One vitally important aspect of the hospitals role i s the provision of a 24 hour, 7 day week Accident & Emergency service for i ts catchment area which in turn takes pressure of the tertiary referral A&E Hospitals and in particular St. Vincent's Hospital thereby ensuring that patient's are treated at a level more appropriate to their medical needs.

Approval was obtained from Comhairle na nospideal to proceed with the appointment of a second post of Consultant General Surgeon. This post is structured St. Columcille's Hospital (7 sessions) and St. Vincent's Hospital (4 sessions). Mr. Stephen Sheehan took up duty in this post in November 1997.

Approval was obtained from Comhairle na nospideal to proceed with the appointment of a joint post of Consultant ObstetricianIGynaecologist between the National Maternity Hospital (7 sessions) St. Columcille's Hospital (2 sessions) and St. Vincent's Hospital (2 sessions). Interviews have been held for this post and the appointment of the successful cand~date is at present being processed.

Financial clearance has been obtained from the Department of Health for the appointment of Consultant Radiologist between St. Columcille's Hospital and St. Vincent's Hospital. In this regard the structure of the post is being discussed within the Department of Radiology for South East Dublin.

Application for financial clearance has been made to the Department of Health in respect of the appointment of a joint post of Consultant Anaesthetist between St. Columcille's Hospital (8 sessions) and St. Vincent's Hospital (3 sessions).

In January 1997, the new Senior Occupational Therapist took up duty at the hospital.

The new Senior Physiotherapist took up duty at the hospital on 17th November 1997. Interviews have also been held for the post of Superintendent Physiotherapist and the successful candidate is due to take up duty in early 1998.

A sum of £50,000 was included in the Department of Health letter of determination for 1997 for the

development of surgical services at St. Columcille's Hospital. This funding has been used to employ one additional Surgical Registrar and two additional theatre nurses to assist with any increase of surgical procedures resulting from the appointment of the second Consultant General Surgeon.

A planned programme of equipment replacement which includes an annual review of all medical equipment i s ongoing at the hospital to ensure that all equipment i s brought up to modem standards to facilitate quality patient care. Equipment purchased during 1997 included:

Colour Doppler attachment for ultrasound machine (Radiology Department)

,+ Fibroscopic Colonoscope with video attachment iJheatre Department)

A special capital grant of £86,000 was also received from the Department of Health in October 1997. This funding was used in the purchase of Anaesthet~c monitors for Theatre, intubating fibroscope (theatre) and gastroscope (theatre).

During the course of 1997, the following improvements were completed at St. Columcille's Hospital:

?6 Replacement of old wooden windows - St. loseph's Ward, Department of the Elderly

i, Painting and renovations -St. Joseph's Ward; Department of the Elderly

+ Upgrading of patients toiletlbathroom and showel facilities on wards

4- Decoration of doctors on-call rooms

4- Completion of new Regional Pharmacy

+ Relocation of hospital libraryllecture room.

In 1996 a special allocation of £300,000 was approved by the Department of Health towards the cost of upgrading and replacement of the electrical plant in the hospital. This was completed in August 1997. A submission has now been made to the Department of Health regarding the necessary funding to facilitate the upgrading of the mechanical services at the hospital.

, > . , , , .

In 1997, a sub-committee of the Board was set up to review the future role and development potential of the hospital. The committee acknowledged the urgent need to upgrade and refurbish the hospital. To date the committee have agreed the following for inclusion in the planning brief for St. Columcilles Hospital - assessment of need, general description of project, phasing and timescale documents.

In 1997, a review group was also set up to identify the immediate priority development needs of the hospital which have been identified as follows:

+ Development of a new "Department of Radiology" (including CT scanning facilities)

4. Development of a new "Day Services Unit"

Detailed planning briefs and schedules of accommodation in respect of both these new departments together with the estimated capital cost of these developments were included in a submission to the Department of Health regarding the necessary funding required to proceed with these projects.

A special capital grant was received from the Department of Health in November 1997 for the development of a CT scanning service at St. Columcille's Hospital. The introduction of this service will ensure speedier diagnosis and treatment of patients which will result in a better quality service. Detailed specifications have been drawn up and arrangements for purchase of the equipment by public tendering process is being organised. Plans to provide accommodation for this equipment is currently being discussed with technical services Department.

The review group continues to meet for the purpose of completing a detailed planning brief for the hospital. To date detailed planning briefs and schedules of accommodation have been completed for the Department of Radiology, Day Services Unit, Accident & Emergency Department, Out-patients Department and Coronary Care Unit.

The Consultant manpower needs of the hospital have been reviewed and prioritised in the following specialties - General Surgery, Radiology and General Medicine. In this

regard a second Consultant Surgeon was appointed to the hospital with effect from 17th November 1997. Discussions are continuing on the appointment of an additional Consultant Radiologist.

In the context of the development of hospital services in Dublin South EastIEast Wicklow, meetings are ongoing with the authorities of St. Vincent's and St. Michael's Hospitals regarding the establishment of central Departments of Medicine, Radiology and Pathology. It is our objective to develop specialties such as Cardiology, Endocrinology, Urology, Rheumatology, Oermatology, E.N.T., and Ophathalmology at St. Columcille's Hospital, particularly on an Out-patient basis.

Discussions are also taking place with the Tallaght Hospital Authorities with a view to developing linkages between the hospital and St. Columcille's Hospital at Consultant Pediatrician level.

The year 1997 has seen the continued development and expansion of services at the hospital. The overall objective over the coming years will be to continue this development of quality facilities to ensure the provision of a quality service to i ts catchment area population.

Finally, I would like to thank my colleagues on the hospital management committee and all the other committees in the hospital for their continued support and advice throughout the year. I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to staff at all levels within the hospital for their commitment and dedication throughout the year in the provision of an excellent quality service to the patients.

john Hernpenstall

Hospital Manager

Ward Bed Available Occupied Total Complement Bed Days Bed Days Admission

Medical

~ ~ - -

l.C.U./C.C.U. 6- 1,825 1,509 51 3

. ~ ~~~

Orthopaedics 23 8,395 6,088 343

Acute 30 8,989 8,649 464 Assessment Elderly

Total 150 52,114 45,045 7,485

% Bed Average Length Occupancy of Stay (Days)

-~ --

93% 4.47

--

84% 4.21

83% 2.23

72% 7.26

96% 17.83

1997 (Projected) 1997 (Oct) 1996

Medical 2,739 2,283 2,547

Surgical 3,939 3,282 3,668 . . . --.- . .. ..

I.C.U. C.C.U. 51 3 428 402

Acute Assessment Elderly 464 387 502

Orthopaedics 343 286 298

' Medical

Surgical

Elderly

Orthopaedics

ObstetricsiGynae ~~~ ---. ~

Geriatric Day Hospital

Pain Relief

1997 (Projected) 1997 (Oct) 1996

A&E Attendences

Out-patient Attendences

20000;-.. -- , 8 .---,

1997 1997 Projected October

Rad~ology

Phys~otherapy

Occuoat~onal Theraov , ,

Speech Therapy

D~etetlcs

Day Services

Day Surgery Procedures

Cer~atr~c Day Hosp~tal

Endoscopy Un~t

Mlcrob~ology

Blood Transfusion

810 Chern~strv

H~stologyICytology

Haematology

tS (1st Attendance)

~ ~

Numb

Number of Adrnlsslons

Total Attendance

Mmor Operat~ons

Dental Operat~ons

FINANCIAL O\ U.-'l7URN5

Total Cross

Income '

Nett Expenditure 9,066,543

Total Cross 10,969,187

Income 795,394

Nett Expenditure 10,173,793

In Service Training

Ms. Mercedes Hurley, Matron

The value of team work was indeed tested in 1997 and proven by the many additional undertakings required due to rewiring, refurbishment and other developments in the ward areas. Services to the Hospital patients continued in a caring and professional manner whilst this work was in progress. I wish to acknowledge the immense contribution made by all staff inthe various departments to facilitate these improvements taking place.

Staff Development

In 1997, the following courses were completed by staff:

! lntensive Care Course (2 Staff Nurses)

" Nursing Degree Course (3 Staff Nurses)

+ Diploma in Management (2 Ward Sisters)

.r. Industrial Relations Management (2 Staff Nurses).

Study days are also funded for staff throughout the year, to ensure that nursing skills are in line with modern trends.

On going in service training and education was maintained throughout the year in the following areas:

Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation

I.V. Drug Policy

Manual handling

Infection control

Quality Initiatives

Nursing is about quality care and the aim of nurse management at St. Columcilles Hospital is to provide the highest quality of nursing care for all our patients.

During the last year, there has been a number of initiat~ves f

to promote and encourage individual patient care. Patients are now active partners in planning care needs. 1

The Nursing Development Unit has evaluated primary nursing using patient questionnaires. The results have been compiled and analysed and are being used to improve patient care.

The Intensive Care Nurses have initiated a programme of training all members of multi-disciplinary teams in Cardio-Pulmonary resuscitation.

The training of a Staff Nurse to specialise in Diabetes has ensured that ail diabetic patients receive appropriate treatment, education and support for their illness.

A high dependency unit has been developed on St. Anne's Ward to cater for patients who cannot be discharged directly to the wards from the I.C.U.1C.C.U. This will lead to a more efficient and effective use of bed usage in l.C.U./C.C.U.

We are very grateful to the Friends of St. Columciiles Hospital who during the year, have donated various items for the comfort of patients. The ongoing work of this Committee and their contribution to the Hospital is very much appreciated.

.I

in conclusion, I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to all my colleagues for their excellent

I care and service to patients throughout the year.

The Department of Surgery under the direction of Mr. Declan Magee continued to be very busy during 1997. The Department provides a comprehensive general surgical service resulting from Out-patients, General Practitioners and Casualty Department referrals. The case load in the department has shown an increase in admissions, out-patient attendance and theatre activity during 1997.

The projected number of admissions for 1997 is 3939, an increase of 7% on the 1996 activity levels. Attendance at the surgical Out-patient Clinic increased by 3% to 4020. The number of operative procedures carried out in theatre for 1997 was 2681, an increase which is slightly higher than year 1996. The percentage bed occupancy in the Department of Surgery in 1997 was 84% and the average length of stay was 4.21.

The surgical unit consists of 54 beds and a full range of general surgical conditions is managed. Four Out-patient clinics are held weekly at the Hospital and an Out-patient Clinic is held fortnightly at Arklow Health Centre at which Mr. Magee attends.

The Hospital continues to participate in the joint Department of Surgery for South East DubliniEast Wicklow.

In 1997, approval was received from Comhairle Na n- Ospideal to the joint appointment of a second post of Consultant General Surgeon with a special interest in vascular surgery. This post i s structured, St. Columcilles Hospital - 7 sessions and St. Vincent's Hospital - 4 sessions. Interviews were held for this post in 1997 and the successful candidate Mr. Stephen Sheehan took up duty on 17th November 1997.

This new appointment is an integral part of the development of the South East Dublin Department of

Surgery which also involved the restructuring of the two present Consultant General Surgeon appointments attached to St. Columcille's Hospital together with revised Locum arrangements as follows:

St. Columcilles St. Vincent's

Mr. D. Magee I1 sessions nil

Mr. 1. Hyland 2 sessions 9 sessions

Mr. S. Sheehan nil nil

Locum arrange 11 sessions nil

St. Columcilles

Mr. D. Magee 7 sessions

Mr. j. Hyland 3 sessions

Mr. S. Sheehan 7 sesslons

Locurn arrange 7 sessions

St. Vincent's

4 sesslons

8 sessions

4 sessions

n11

It is the intention, in the near future, to structure a further Consultant General Surgeon appointment to the South East Dublin Department of Surgery to replace the current Locum arrangements particularly at St. Columcille's Hospital.

The Accident & Emergency Department at St. Columcilles Hospital provides services on a 24 hour, 7 day week basis to an increasing population in i ts catchment area of Dublin South EastIEast Wicklow.

The Accident & Emergency service continued to be very busy during 1997 with an increase in new attendances compared with the previous year. There were 23,895 new patients attended for treatment during the year. A further 10,893 return patients attended.

An indication of the important role that the A&E Department plays in the overall context of the Hospital is reflected in the high percentage of overall Hospital admissions coming in via the A&E Department.

The projected number of admissions to the Hospital via the Accident & Emergency Department in 1997 i s 4,928 or 70%.

One vitally important aspect of the Hospitals role i s the provision of a 24 hour17 day per week accident & emergency service for its catchment area, is that it takes pressure off the tertiary referral Dublin A&E hospitals and in particular St. Vincent's Hospital thereby ensuring that patients are treated at a level more appropriate to their medical needs.

In order to extract comprehensive statistical data and patient information, the Board is at present investigating the installation of a suitable computerised A&€ Information System at S t . Columcilles Hospital which will have the capacity to interface with other Departments within the Hospital.

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The Theatre Department provides a 24 hour, 7 day week elective and emergency service.

The projected number of operations carried out in the Theatre Department in 1987 was 2,681.

It is anticipated that with the appointment of the Consultant General Surgeon with a special interest in Vascular Surgery in November 1997, the number of operations will increase in the coming year.

During the year new equipment was purchased for the Theatre Department which included a Hysteroscopy Set for gynaecological procedures, new anaesthetic monitors and a gastroscope.

Courses attended by nursing staff included:

9 Epidural Study Day

~ 9 . European Conference on Equipment Sterilisation

4. Irish Association of Sterile Service Managers

The Orthopaedic service provided at St. Columcilles Hospital includes in-patient care and Ward consultation, out-patient clinics and theatre operating sessions. The Orthopaedic service i s under the direction of Mr. Eamonn Kelly and Mr. Kieran O'Rourke, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons.

The projected number of Out-patients seen at the Out- patient Clinics during 1997 is 7,048. This represents an increase of 6.5% on the year 1996. There were 2,678 first time attendances at Out-patient clinics.

The number of in-patients admitted for treatment by the Orthopaedic Team during 1997 was 343 and a total of 295 operative procedures were performed on these patients. In addition to the above many elective procedures on patients seen in the Out-patients were performed in Cappagh Orthopaedic Hospital.

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The ObstetricIGynaecology service at St. Columcilles Hospital is provided by Dr. Orla Shiel and Dr. Peter McParland, Consultant Obstetricians/Cynaecologists.

In 1997, approval was received from Comhairle na n- Ospideal to proceed with the filling of a joint post of consultant Obstetrician Gynaecologist - National Maternity Hospital (7 sessions). St. Columcilles Hospital (2 sessions), St. Vincent's Hospital (2 sessions). Interviews for the post were held in October 1997 and the appointment of the successful candidate i s now being processed.

Consultant based Out-patient Ante-natal Clinics are held weekly at S t . Columcilles Hospital and peripheral ante- natal clinic5 are held weekly at Arklow, Wicklow, Bray and Greystones, The projected number of attendances at ante- natal Out-patient clinics in 1997 is 3,728 which represents an increase of 3.5% on 1996.

A weekly Ultrasound session is held at St. Columcilles Hospital.

An Ultrasound service i s also provided to the peripheral clinics with the use of a mobile ultrasound machine purchased in 1996.

A second weekly ante-natal education class has commenced at St. Columcilles Hospital to cater for increased attendances.

The ante-natal education class which has been developed for patients attending Wicklow Health Centre has proved very successful and is fully availed of by the patients.

The projected activity in Out-patients Department in 1997 is 18,210 attendances, an increase of 4.5% on the 1996 figures.

Clinics held a t the Hospital are as follows:

2 Medical (Weekly) ~ ~~

1 (Weekly) ~~ ~

1 (Weekly) ~~ ~ ~ ~

In addition to the above a Surgical Clinic is held fortnightly in Arklow and Ante-natal clinics are held weekly in Arklow, Bray, Wicklow and Greystones. Further details of Out-patient Clinics are contained in Appendix 1 .

In April 1997 a Staff Nurse was assigned as full-time Diabetic Specialist Nurse for St. Columcilles Hospital. The staff Nurse is based in the Out-patient Department for

out-patient care and advice. This Nurse i s also involved daily in the care of all in-patients with diabetes. The provision of this service has given our patients with diabetes a better quality of life.

Education and advice is now available to Diabetic patients by attending the Hospital or by contacting the Diabetic Nurse by telephone.

The post of Out-patient Sister was advertised in 1997 and interviews are due to be held in the near future.

The Department of Medicine provides a comprehensive In-patient service for patients with general medical problems and also in specialised areas such as diabetes, asthma, hyperlipidemia and acute cardiology.

Projected admissions for 1997 i s 2739, an increase of 7.5% on 1996. Bed occupancy was averaging 93%. There continues to be a high demand for medical beds and this results in medical emergencies being admitted to surgical wards which reduces the availability of beds for emergencies and for elective work in the Department of Surgery.

Projected Out-patient attendances for 1997 was 2539 which is on a par with attendances in 1996. The number of new patients who attended was 51 7.

Day procedures are carried out twice weekly, including gastroscopy, colonoscopy and bronchoscopy. In 1997, the total number of endoscopies carried out in the Department of Medicine was 420.

Three beds on St. Anne's Ward have been equipped as a high dependency unit to cater for patients with unstable angina, acute asthma, epileptic seizures and other acute medical conditions. The high dependency unit works in close co-operation with the Intensive Care Unit and has assisted in the better management of bed usage in the Intensive Care Unit.

In 1997, a staff nurse was trained and assigned as a Diabetic nurse specialist for both In-patients and Out- patients. This nurse is involved in the daily care of all

patients with diabetes. The provision of the service has given patients with diabetes a better quality of life.

A review of the junior hospital doctors duty rota in the Department of Medicine was carried out in 1997. This has resulted in improved in-house cover for the hospital and the Accident & Emergency Department between the hours of 5.00pm to 9.00am. It has improved the standard of patient care and reduced waiting times in the Accident & Emergency Department.

In-house training and education is ongoing in the Department of Medicine with cardio-pulmonary resuscitation courses and refresher courses available to staff. Conference and education sessions continue to be held in the Department of Medicine on a weekly basis and include the following:

Monday Journal Club

Wednesday X-ray Conference

Thursday Multi-disciplinary Conference

Friday Medical Conference

St. Columcille's Hospital participates in the Department of Medicine for South East Dublin and discussions are ongoing with the Authorities of St. Vincent's Hospital and St. Michael's Hospital regarding the development of General Medical services in the area. It is planned that two additional joint posts of Consultant Physician will be structured between St. Columdlle's Hospital and St. Vincent's Hospital.

Dr. john Fennell, Consultant Physician, was elected national specialty director for training in general (internal) medicine by the Irish Committee for Higher Medical Training. Dr. Fennell is also the U.E.M.S. representative of the R.C.P.I.

The Department of Medicine for the Elderly under the direction of Dr. Morgan Crowe and Dr. Shaun O'Keeffe, Consultant Physicians in Geriatric Medicine, comprises of a 30 bed in-patient facility for the acute assessment and rehabilitation of elderly patients. A Day Hospital facility attached to the Department allows for the continuing treatment and rehabilitation of approximately 10 to 15 patients per day on an out-patient basis. The Day Hospital offers a valuable assessment and rehabilitation service to patients who would otherwise require admission.

Secondary rehabilitation is provided at St. Colman's Hospital, Rathdrum and District Hospital Wicklow for Wicklow patients. Access i s available to secondary rehabilitation facilities in the Royal Hospital, Donnybrook for patients from South East Dublin. The Department also has access to an intermittent respite care facility which has been developed at Leopardstown Park Hospital where patients are admitted for three days every fortnight.

Patients are admitted to the acute assessment unit via the A&E, Day Hospital or following transfer from other wards in the Hospital. The Day Hospital provides facilities for multi-disciplinary assessment (medical, nurslng, physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy and social worker) of new patients referred by their General Practitioners and ongoing review and rehabilitation of day patients. The multi-disciplinary team is very involved in rehabilitation of in-patients in the unit and progress i s reviewed at weekly case conferences.

In 1997, there were 464 in-patient admissions and 1882 Day Hospital attendances to the Department at St. Colurncilles Hospital. In addition the Department also carried out over 200 consultations on patients from other wards in the Hospital including general medicine, general surgery and orthopaedic surgery.

There is a Consultant based out-patient clinic held weekly at the Hospital and attendances for 1997 were 646.

The Department has been functioning with an average percentage bed occupancy of 96% in 1997. Over 70% of patients are successfully rehabilitated to a degree that

S T COLUMCS1,Lb.S HOSI'I'I'AI. Annual Report 1997

enables them to be discharged home with the support of the Community Care Services. The remaining patients are discharged to areas of care appropriate to their degree of complexity.

The appointment of Dr Shaun 0' Keeffe as the third Consultant Geriatrician in South East Dublin1 East Wicklow has contributed greatly to an improved consultation service for elderly in other Hospital Departments particularly orthopaedics, general surgery and general medicine. There is also a more efficient liaison with the secondary rehabilitation facilities at St. Colman's Hospital, District Hospital W~cklow and the Royal Hospital, Donnybrook.

A weekly clinical and audit Meeting has been established in 1997 at which non-consultant hospital doctors, Nursing staff and Consultants attend. A weekly Radiological Conference is also held on St. Joseph's Ward for the elderly.

The Department is at present involved in two studies:

4 Cot side usage

4 Confusion in the Elderly,

The results of both these studies will be presented at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Irish Gerontological Society.

The Department of the Elderly at St. Columcilles Hospital is also carrying out a survey of Stroke patients in South East DublinIEast Wicklow. This is the first survey of it's kind in Ireland. The results will be compiled and published when completed.

radiology service to the General Practitioners in the catchment area.

The staff in the Radiology Department are to be complimented for their commitment while working under extremely difficult conditions.

There is an urgent need to develop the Radiology Department to provide quality facilities for patients and staff to enable the delivery of an efficient and effective service.

In August 1997 a detailed Planning.6rief and Schedule of accommodation in respect of a new Department of Radiology together with the estimated capital cost of this development was included in a submission to the Department of Health for consideration in the context of the 1998 capital allocation.

A special capital grant was received from the Department of Health in November 1997 towards the cost of developing C.T. Scanning services on-site at St. Columcilles Hospital. The introduction of this diagnostic service will ensure speedier diagnosis and treatment of our patients thus providing an enhanced quality service.

There were 38,995 X-Ray Examinations carried out in 1997. This represents a 13% increase on the year 1996 and a 40% increase since 1988. (A breakdown of the numbers and type of X-Rays carried out during 1997 is included in Appendix 3). During 1997 the Radiology Department at St. Columcilles Hospital has endeavoured to respond to the increasing service demands from the specialities within the Hospital, A&E Department, Out- patients Department as well as providing a diagnostic

St. Columcilles Hospital participates in the Department of Radiology for South East Dublin. The initial meeting took place in July 1997. Financial clearance has been obtained from the Department of Health for a joint post of Consultant Radiologist. The structure of this post is being discussed within the Department of Radiology for South East Dublin.

St. Colurncilles Hospital continues,to participate in the South East Dublin Department of Anaesthesia. The present complement of Consultant Anaesthetic staff in the Hospital is asfollows:

St. Columcilles St. Vincent's

Hospital Hospital ~~ .... . ~~.~ .... ~ ~ ~ ~ . - ~ ~~~~- ~~ ~-~

Dr. Kinross Burke 11 sessions -

Dr. Pat Benson 7 sessions 4 sessions

Dr. H. Gallagher 7 sessions 4 sessions

Locum 8 sessions .

Financial clearance has been sought from the Department of Health in respect of a joint post of Consultant Anaesthetist, St. Columcilles Hospital - 8 sessions and St. Vincent's Hospital - 3 sessions.

The faculty of Anaesthetists continues to recognise St. Columcilles Hospital for the General Professional Training of Anaesthetists. This recognition is for three posts, each for a training period of six months. The posts form part of a rotation with St. Vincent's Hospital.

The workload of the Department of Anaesthesia was similar to 1996. Anaesthesia is provided for procedures in Theatre, lntensive Care Unit, Pain management and the resusc~tation of trauma victimslhead injuries and the transport of these patients to other Hospitais. The projected number of admissions to the lntensive Care Unit for 1997 is 51 3. The acute pain service continued to expand during 1997 with 229 patients being treated for pain control.

In 1997, special funding was received from the Department of Health for the replacement of the Anaesthetic monitors in Theatre and for the purchase of an intubating fibrescope. The purchase of this equipment for Theatre has assisted the medical and nursing staff in the better management of critically ill patients.

The Physiotherapy Department provides a service for General Medicine, General Surgery, Elderly, Orthopaedics, ObstetricslGynaecology, lntensive Carelcoronary Care and Out-patients.

There is a staff of six Physiotherapists in the Department who have a wide range of skills which is of enormous benefit in the provision of patient care. The number of treatments carried out in 1997 was 33,548 which is slightly higher than 1996.

In 1997, the Physiotherapy Department featured on National Radio in the programme "The Health Studio". The Programme highlighted the Physiotherapy Departments in-put into the areas of Care of the Elderly, Women's Health, lntensive Carelcoronary Care Unit and

The Department also accommodates physiotherapy students from U.C.D. in obtaining their clinical experience, one of whom completed her research project while on placement at the hospital.

The Physiotherapy Department at St. Columcilles Hospital remains the only department in the South East Dublin area to take direct CP referrals and the waiting time 18

maintained at approximately four weeks for these patients. This aspect of the service is continuing to expand which is an indication of the support the Hospital receives from the local GP's.

1'1 l . \ l < A l ~ \ c Y

The Pharmaceutical service in the Hospital is on the threshold of a new era of development. New improved accommodation was provided in 1997 in preparation for these forthcoming changes. Appropriate pharmaceutical shelving and dispensing benches have streamlined the

Out-patients Department. A very positive feed back was received from the patients, general public and colleagues.

Equipment purchased for the Physiotherapy Department in 1997 included a Bobath Plinth which greatly enhances our ability to treat stroke patients and other neurological conditions. A Laser Machine was also acquired which allows for the more effective treatment of soft $Issue injuries, varicose ulcers and pressure sores.

A new Senior Physiotherapist, Ms. Shirley McMichael took up duty in November 1997. Ms. Erika Ring took up duty as Physiotherapist in 1997. Ms. Ring has recently obtained her Msc. in sportsmedicine from Trinity College Dublin.

We look forward to their contribution to the Physiotherapy services in the Hospital.

Interviews have also been held for the post of Superintendent Physiotherapist and the appointment of the successful candidate is at present being processed.

Due to increased demand a second weekly ante-natal education class is being provided at the Hospital.

- for the formulation of oolicies and review of oerformance

work flow and this will prove i ts worth when we become a Regional Pharmacy in 1998.

A new Chief Pharmacist, Ms. Jackie Walsh was appointed and took up her position in August 1997. This allowed for a ward and clinical pharmacy service to be introduced on several wards. It is our aim to further develop and expand this service when the full pharmacy staff complement has been reached.

Drug Information Service

The development of this service to all medical, nursing and paramedical staff at the Hospital will result in a more efficient and effective use of hospital drugs.

in relation to policy implementation

Infection Control Committee

Advising the Committee on the appropriate use of Drugs and Medicines in infection control.

Ms. Elaine Cryan was appointed as Senior Occupational Therapist at St. Columcilles Hospital from 1st lanuary 1997.

The Occupational Therapy Department provides a service for the Department of the Elderly, Department of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Orthopaedics, Out- patients Department and Day Hospital for the Elderly.

The number of patients treated in 1997 was 1,415, an increase of 312 on the previous year. The number of treatments for the year was 11,239.

A full range of assessment and therapy equipment is available in the Occupational Therapy Department. The Occupational Therapist provides assessment and therapy for in-patients and out-patients. Home visits are carried out where necessary to give advice to patients and their relatives in order to plan a safer discharge home. The Department also works closely with the Community Occupational Therapists to ensure that patients discharged receive follow-up treatment in the Community.

Druo Formularv The post of basic Occupational Therapist has been

Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation Trolleys effective service.

A Programme to review and rationalise C.P.R. drugs on cardiac trolleys is ongoing.

. , .,, , , , . .' , The Drugs & Therapeutic Committee , ., . , " , , , , ,

The membership of this Committee includes hospital The Social Work Department provides a broad range of management, Chief pharmacist, Hospital Consultants, services to patients and their families to enable them to Nursing Administration and General Practitioners. The deal with the impact of hospitalisation and to maximise Committee continues to operate as a very valuable forum the benefit of the health sr Social Care Services,

The three main areas of development in 1997 and continuing into 1998 are as follows:

A comprehensive assessment service for the older patient run in conjunction with other members of the multi- disciplinary teams i.e. Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Speech & Language Therapist.

On all the wards the Social Worker assigned works as part of the team, and one new innovation is the regular weekly ward rounds on the orthopaedic ward and meetings which has resulted in planned interventions while the patient is in Hospital, planned discharges and close collaboration with the Geriatricians. In this way patients are assessed, potential problem; identified and successful discharge planning carried out linking in very closely with the Community.

While older people provide one of the greatest challenges to health care services and to Social Work providers in particular, the other main increase in referrals is our Children's ward. The number of social admissions has more than doubled in 1997.

In 1996, there were seventeen admissions to our paediatric ward with overdoses of alcohol and/or drugs. In 1997, t o date there have been twenty seven admissions.

In 1997, there has been ongoing education for staff in relation to domestic violence and it is hoped to have a Domestic Violence Protocol drawn up in co-operation with Bray Women's Refuge in 1998.

Ongoing training for front line workers i.e. staff in the A&E Department in detecting and recognising Domestic Violence i s being planned at present.

The number of referrals to the Social Work Department in 1997 was 1,194 which is o n a par with 1996.

\I,,) ) 1 , , , ) ( ) ( ; ) p; )y>>;<) :,,!!.:.:).

1997 proved to be a busy year for the laboratory service. Overall there were 108,051 specimens processed in the laboratory in 1997, an increase of 18.3% on the year 1996 which represents 94% of hospital requirements. The GP service provided by the laboratory to the General Practitioners in the North Wicklow area (Bray and

Greystones) and in South Wicklow (Wicklow and Arklow) continued to expand with a 3.3% rise in workload over 1996.

The laboratory continues to perform well in all external quality assessment schemes and ongoing education and training of staff continues. Ms. Suzanne Traynor Acting Technologist in Charge will complete the Diploma in Health care Management in the Institute of Public Administration i n April 1998. Ms. Brona Maguire, Laboratory Technician has commenced the Msc. in Molecular Pathology in Kevin St. College of Technology. The course is a two year master's course awarded by Trinity College, Dublin. Ms. Anne McDonnell, Laboratory Technician has enrolled in the Professional Enhancement Programme which is run by the Academy of Medical laboratory science.

1997 saw the availability of laboratory results to medical and nursing staff via the computer monitors at ward level. This is progressive and is hoped to make this service available to general practitioner users of the laboratory service in 1998.

Mr. Donal Murphy, Technologist in Charge resigned from his post at St. Columcille's Hospital in October 1997. Mr. Murphy successfully oversaw the development of the laboratory from its commencement to i ts current status. Ms. Suzanne Traynor is at present acting Technologist in Charge and Ms. Anne McDonnell is Acting Senior Technician. The post of Technologist i n Charge has been advertised for filling in a permanent capacity.

Biochemistry

The total workload for biochemistry was 42,774 an increase of 16% on 1996. The increase in workload occurred both in the routine biochemistry section and the endocrinology section which utilises the Corning ACS 180 analyser. The biochemistry department participates in three external quality assurance schemes NEQAS, Wellcome and the Irish External Quality Assurance Scheme.

HaematologyICoagulation

The total numbers of specimens processed for HaematologyICoagulation in 1997 was 48,l 12 compared to 38,064 in 1996, an increase of 26.4%.

The coulter MaxM purchased in 1996 has been working very successfully in the department throughout 1997. Features such as primary sampling and in five part machine differential has helped in coping with the substantial workload increase. We have managed t o reduce the number of blood films in 1997 to 1,609 which represents a decrease of 21 % in review rates over 1996. 1997 also saw a considerable increase in the numbers of coagulation samples processed, a 33% increase over 1996.

Microbiology

In 1997, 13,045 specimens were processed in the microbiology department. The biggest development in 1997 was the introduction of the Bactec 9050 blood culture system. The Bactec blood culture bottles are designed for the rapid detection of bacteria in clinical cultures of blood. The continuous monitoring of the bottles allows positive samples to be processed immediately after detection and results phoned to the clinician.

Since its introduction in May 1997, the system has been particularly effective in highlighting positive results outside 'normal working hours' allowing such positive samples to be processed during these periods.

Blood Transfusion

In line with the other laboratory departments, blood transfusion experienced an increase of 15.8% in the number of blood groups processed and an increase of 20.9% in the volume of cross matching over 1996.

Successful management of blood stocks ensured average wastage remained at less than 5%.

Histology

Ms. Denise O'Toole, Laboratory Technician attended the Histology Telepath user's group meeting in Birmingham in June 1997. This year has seen a consistent rise in the diagnostic activity of the histology laboratory. The most modest rise was 8% generated from general surgical specimens from the hospital. Specimens from general practitioners showed an 11% rise over the same period last year, and CP cytology specimens, many of which were

breast aspirates, were markedly more frequent This is a most welcome and reassuring trend.

To date, autopsies are being performed at the same rate as last year, both on site in St. Columcille's and at Wicklow Hospital. There i s an increase in the number of Diagnostic Post Mortems performed (academic rather than coroner cases) at St. Columcille's. This is also a laudable trend as such cases form the basis of medical audit. Additional attendant staff have been trained in Mortuary and Autopsy techniques during 1997.

The Medical Library of St. Columcilles Hospital caters for all disciplines of staff in the Hospital, Medicine, Nursing, Radiography, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Dietetics.

1997 saw the continuing development of the Library facilities and i ts relocation to improved premises in the Hospital.

Journals

The Library subscribed to 30 journals in 1997 and other journals are taken on donation from Consultants. Journals are bound in volumes at the end of each year.

Books

Book stock now amounts to approximately 250 books.

Inter Library Loan

The Hospital participates in the intra-library loan between approximately twenty four Irish Medical Libraries. The Hospital is also an institutional member of B.M.A. and may borrow journal articles from there also. Access to both Mercers Library and U.C.D. Library is available by joining as external readers or by obtaining a consultation permit for a day.

Other Facilities

Photocopying, audio visual aids and C.D. Rom.

The Speech & Language Therapy Service is provided by Ms. Deirdre Fitzgerald, Speech & Language Therapist, Community Care Area 1. Ms. Fitzgerald has a time commitment to the Hospital of five sessions per week. Discussions are ongoing between Hospital Management and Community Care Services Management regarding an increased in-put of this service to the Hospital.

The number of patients referred to the Department has continued to rise. The number of patients referred in 1997 was 693 compared with 669 in 1996 and 546 in 1995.

The Speech and Language Therapist receives referrals from the Department of General Medicine, General Surgery, Orthopaedics, Elderly and there are increasing demands from I.C.U.1C.C.U.

Patients are referred with Communication Disorders resulting from the following:

Acquired Neurological Disorders

Programme Neurological Disorders

E.N.T. Conditions

The primary presenting Speech and Language disorders are as follows:

Dysphagia (60%)

Dsyphasia (26%)

DysarthriaIDyspraxia (14%)

The Speech and Language Therapist works as part of a multi-disciplinary team and is engaged in an on-going programme of in-house training. In 1997, three presentations were made at the weekly Clinical Conference, one jointly with the Occupational Therapist.

In 1997, a final year student from Trinity College Dublin, completed her clinical placement and examination at St. Columcilles Hospital under the supervision of the Speech and Language Therapist.

During 1997, the Hospital sponsored the Speech and Language Therapist attendance at a number of courses and seminars which assisted in the updating of skills.

In addition the Hospital purchased a number of items of equipment for the Speech and Language Department.

The current level of service is five sessions per week. The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics provides an in- patient and out-patient service. The in-patient workload includes a service to the I.C.U.IC.C.U., Medical Ward, Elderly Ward and Surgical Wards.

The Dietician receives direct referrals from Out-patient Clinics and referrals from the General Practitioners in the Hospital catchment area.

Work in this Department continues to be very busy with an attendance of 2,984 in 1997. Following a recent review of the Nutrition and Dietetic service, it was noted that further developments in this area was contingent on extra resources being made available. In the coming year it is hoped by redeployment of existing resources to create a full-time post of Dietician at St. Columcilles Hospital. This will enable a significant improvement in the delivery of nutritional services to both in-patients and out-patients.

In 1997, links have been established with the Dublin Institute of Technology, Kevin Street, which provides placement of third year Nutrition students for observation purposes.

Courses and Lectures attended by the Dietician ; throughout the year included:

Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition (ESPEN) - European Society

Conference on Nutrition for the Elderly.

In line with the Health Strategy Document - "Shaping a Healthier Future" , there is considerable scope, within the Hospital population for improvement in health and lifestyle awareness programs. Healthy lifestyle includes appropriate diet, non-smoking/drinking habits which are key influences in causing disease and premature mortality.

It is intended for the future that the Dietician take an active role in a health promotion programme where patients will be educated on a group basis. The purpose of this will be to address and promote the very crucial

message of health gain on a variety of nutrition related topics including diseases such as heart and stroke, healthy eating and diabetes.

' . , . , , .

, . ' \ ' _ : . ,

The Friends of St. Columcilles Hospital which is a registered charity have to date raised in excess of E200,000 towards the cost of a C.T. Scanner which will be presented to the Hospital.

The Committee continue to raise funds on behalf of the Hospital through varied activities and events organised throughout the year. In this respect the Hospital receives tremendous support from its local Community and indeed throughout its greater catchment area of South East DublinIEast Wicklow.

The Committee have also received generous donations from local organisations who have raised monies through sponsorship of events such as Dublin City Marathon and the Ladies Mini Marathon. Currently two local men who are participating in a trans-atlantic boat race are hoping to

raise funds through sponsorship which will be donated to the St. Columcilles Hospital C.T. Scan Appeal.

In 1997, the Friends of St. Columcilles Hospital organised events as follows: Golf Classic, Hospital Field Day, Concerts, Art Exhibitions, Christmas Fare, Flag Days, Raffles and Race nights.

We are very grateful to the Friends of St. Columcilles Hospital who continue to raise funds on behalf of the Hospital. Their ongoing efforts and their contribution to the Hospital is very much appreciated.

Presidential Visit

The President of Ireland Mary Robinson visited St. Columcilles Hospital in March 1997. During her visit President Robinson met with patients and staff on the wards. The President also met with members of the Friends of St. Columcilles Hospital Voluntary Fund Raising Committee and afterwards attended a reception to mark her visit to the hospital.

The Catering Department prepared over 600 meals daily durinq 1997 for patients, visitors and staff with a variety of - choices available.

Meals-on-wheels are provided to the following local areas: Ballybrack, johnstown, Enniskerry, Monkstown and the Open Door Centre in Bray. In 1997 there were 18,520 Meals-on-wheels supplied to the Community by the Catering Department.

Mr. Paul Cruite, took up duty as Catering Officer in 1997. Since his appointment Mr. Cruite has carried out a comprehensive review of the Catering services in all Departments throughout the Hospital. It is agreed that these catering services can be further enhanced and it i s hoped to achieve this during the coming year.

The Technical Services staff under the direction of Mr. Michael Kinsella, Engineering Officer have continued to make a significant contribution throughout 1997 in maintaining the fabric of the building and are to be complemented on their efforts.

In 1996, a special allocation of £300,000 was approved by the Department of Health towards the cost of the upgrading and replacement of the electrical plant in the Hospital. This work was completed in August 1997.

Routine maintenance of facilities, piant and equipment took place in 1997 together with the provision of a service to the Hospital for carrying out minor works and on-going repairs. These works were carried out by our staff in the mechanical, plumbing, electrical, carpentrylbuilding, painting and gardening sections.

As part of the on-going programme of upgrading of accommodation in the Hospital the following priority works of a larger nature were carried out:

+ Replacement of old wooden windows in St. Joseph's ward, Department of the Elderly

+ Painting and renovation of St. Joseph's ward, Department of the Elderly.

C Completion of new Regional Pharmacy

4 Re-location of Hospital Libraryllecture Room

.P Up-grading of patients toiletlbathroom and shower facilities on wards

i. Decoration of Doctors on-call rooms in staif Home

Mr. Joe Reilly who was gardener at St . Colunlcilles Hospital for mdny years died in August this year. Tl ir

sadness and loss of his untimely death was deeply felt by all of us who knew him.

The services of the Chaplaincy Department is very important in ensuring the provision of pastoral ministry to patients, relatives and staff. This pastoral ministry to people of all faiths encompasses ward visitation, pre- theatre visils, bereavement and crisis counselling, sacraments and prayer.

Father Arthur Larkin is the full-time Roman Catholic Chaplain and Rev. Fred Appleby i s the Church of Ireland Chaplain. Ministers of other faiths visits the Hospital as required.

Every November, the Chaplaincy Department organises a special remembrance mass for deceased staff members and invites their relatives to participate.

This year is the 150th Anniversary of the death of St. Columcille, the Patron Saint of the Hospital. To mark the occasion, an Icon of St. Columcille has been placed in the Hospital Oratory and a commemorative Mass was also celebrated.

The Chaplaincy Department enjoys a great team worlc experience with all the various disciplines in the Hospital inproviding a high standard of pastoral care to patients, rei?tives and staff.

Day Time Consultant Specialty

Monday 9.00 a.m. Dr. Morgan Crowe Geriatric Medicine

~ ~

9.00 a.m. Dr. Orla ShielIDr. Peter McParland Gynaecology ~ ~ ~~

10.00 a.m. Dr. Joe Stanley Obstetrics (Greystones) ~ ~

1.30 p.m. Mr. K. O'Rourke OrthoiFracture ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dr. Orla Shiel 1.30 p.m.

2.00 p.m. Mr. 1. Hyland ~~~ ~

Every 2nd Monday 10.00 a.m. Mr. Declan Magee ~~ ~ ~ ~

Tuesday 9.30 a.m. Dr. Orla Shiel Obstetrics

.

2.00 p.m. Mr. Gary Brow ~ ~ ~ ~

2.00 p.m. Dr. Hugh Gallagher . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Wednesday 9.00 a.m. Dr. john Fennell General Medicine

Dr. Kinross Burke

Thursday 1st & 3rd Thursday 8.00 a.m. Dr. John Fennell Diabetic

~ -~ . ~ ~~~ - ~ ~ - ~ ~ ~ .

each month

Last Thursday of 9.00 a.m. Dr John Fennell Asthma each month ~. - ~~

. ~~ ~~ - ~ - ~~- ~ ~

Friday 10.00 a.m. Dr. P. McParland Obstetrics (Bray)

~ ~~~~~~p

~~- ~~~

Arklow Health Centre

- -- -

Wicklow Health Centre

Bray Health Centre

Greystones Health Centre

st. Colurncilles Hospital

(~nte-Natal)

St. Colurncilles Hospital

(Cynae Clinic)

-

Total

Total Est. 1997

October

Barium Swallow/Meal

Earlurn Enema

I V P

Chest

AbdomeniKUB

Skeletons

Venograms

Total

General

PregnancyICynae

Total

October 1997

October 1997

2,132

201

Est. 1997

Est. 1997

2,558

241

Ian Fob Mar April May June July Aug Iept Ott Est Nov €st Dec Projected ~ ---- ~~~ ~~ ~ -

Microbiology

Urine 517 512 493 590 494 447 613 517 581 536 520 500 6.326

Faeces 85 82 61 100 71 84 1 I 89 85 92 82 75 911 - -~

Sputa 80 46 55 5 1 5 I 5 5 50 59 65 53 75 80 726 ~~ - - -

Swabs 140 262 309 343 387 319 296 325 314 369 320 300 3.794 - ~~~~ ~

Blood Cultures 73 60 75 49 63 59 100 137 98 107 70 80 971

Fluids ( i n ~ C

Mist (HCGIBJP) I I 2 8 7 I 1 3 I 1 I 7 18 13 10 I 2 I35

Haematology

FCC's 1.731 1,626 1.110 1,882 1.912 1,729 2,012 1 , 7 7 8 ' 2.036 2,134 2.010 1,995 12.565

Blood Films 82 55 9 101 125 101 103 204 195 110 180 1.609

ESR's 111 547 561 658 662 516 610 581 664 714 650 610 7.314

Coagulation 1,444 1,251 1.206 1,428 1.284 1.184 1,519 1,298 1.425 1,263 1.432, 1,400 16.114 ---- ~ ~ ~ ~

Others 48 6 1 49 34 54 47 38 35 33 34 29 i 8 490

Blood Transfusion

Blood Groups 66 73 76

Crossmaah~ng 105 100 116

Others 38 80 69

B~ochem~stry 1,665 2.470 2,506

Thyroid function test

free14 59 78 88

Total T I 14 34 36

Blood gases 150 150 150

IroniTIBC 37 18 15 -~ ~~~

Theophyllines I1 5 6 ~ -~ ~-~~ - - ~ ~

Ferritins 48 5 I 49 - ~ ~ ~ ~ . . .- - ~~~

Total 8,625 8.136 8.333

7 I 4 1 57 49 94

I l l 60 71 I 1 6 95

64 I 5 10 I 3 I 1

2,767 2.798 1.394 3.01 1 1,585

On-Call 460 491 565 402 434 397 469 516 443 500 470 480 5,638

\ I l \ l h \ i \

!an fcb Mar Rpr Hay Jun Iu i Rug Itpt Ert Oct Ert Nau Bt Dec P r ~ i m e d

I t . Vintents Routine 411 4 0 1 4 3 1 4 2 1 4 6 1 4 4 1 480 4 1 1 440 410 420 418 1.191

I t . Vincent8 On-call 58 55 6 l 60 59 54 11 8 1 I 8 63 60 65 111

~ ~ ~ ---- ~~. . ~ ~ . ~ ~ ~~. ..

U.C.D. 8 1 10 8 1 I1 10 10 8 9 7 8 I 0 5

V w r Rel. Lab 60 1 6 1 8 1 6 38 SO 1 9 4 4 1 2 60 48 I 5 616

Beaumont 98 8 1 76 1 2 96 11 104 1 1 80 90 9 1 98 1.012

Total 617 604 662 199 667 64 1 7 0 1 611 618 , 612 610 644 7,686