Bradford cancer patients are benefiting thanks to the introduction of a new, weekly smoothie round on two wards at the city’s main hospital.
The innovative idea originated from patients who are cared for by dietitians, based at Bradford Royal Infirmary, part of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
The ‘smoothie round’ every Tuesday was also introduced to promote and raise awareness of nutrition and hydration on wards 24 and 33.
Highly Specialist Macmillan Oncology Dietitian, Fiona Enright, said: “We wanted to introduce a weekly fortified smoothie to patients on our cancer wards during one of the daily drinks trolley rounds. Nutrition and hydration are fundamental to the health and wellbeing of patients, and the regular introduction of a nourishing smoothie can help maximise health outcomes of our oncology patients.
“Patients attending oncology wards often present as underweight, experience unintentional weight loss, or have a reduced appetite and therefore reduced intake which can sometimes result in malnutrition.
“Provision of a nourishing drink provides an additional opportunity for patients to meet their nutritional requirements and minimise the risk of malnutrition.”
Mrs Enright and her fellow Specialist Macmillan Oncology Dietitians, Emma Cavalier and Melissa Gaunt, provide dietetic care on the hospital’s oncology wards and Catering and Nutrition Improvement Dietitian, Jessica Wilde, helped to implement the weekly round.
Dietetic Assistant Practitioner, Jo Dunn, prepares and makes the smoothies each week, supported by student dietitians.
It’s hoped the smoothies’ introduction will help relieve the monotony of the hospital day by providing a nutritious and healthy drink.
The new scheme was made possible thanks to Bradford Hospitals Charity who donated more than £350 worth of equipment and food.
Director of Bradford Hospitals Charity, Laura Riach, said: “This is a wonderful example of a patient-focused initiative that we are thrilled to have supported. It’s fantastic to see our student dietitians taking the lead and creating something that patients genuinely look forward to. This project perfectly demonstrates how charitable funds can enhance patient experience in simple but meaningful ways.”