Tullamore hospital operating department first in Ireland to have a sensory room
The HSE has announced the official opening of a newly enhanced sensory-friendly environment within the operating department at the Midlands Regional Hospital in Tullamore.
It said the project had introduced "a range of measures aimed at creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for patients and staff alike" and that the operating department in Tullamore was the first in Ireland to have a sensory room.
The HSE said the initiative was developed under the acronym SHINE (Supporting Health Inclusivity for Everyone) and was designed to "improve the hospital experience for patients with additional needs, including neurodivergent children and adults, by creating a more accessible and calming environment".
This project was developed and led by Hazel Egan, clinical nurse manager 2, and Zita Gibson, enhanced senior staff nurse, in the operating department at the hospital in Tullamore.
Outlining the motivation behind the initiative, the HSE said hospital settings can be overwhelming for many, and for individuals with "sensory processing difficulties, autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, communication difficulties, or other additional needs," these challenges can be even greater.
Hazel and Zita "worked closely with families, service users, multidisciplinary colleagues and external stakeholders to create a more inclusive and supportive experience".
The sensory-friendly enhancements that were introduced were in areas such as: children's check-in, waiting and assessment areas; the recovery room; a dedicated sensory space within the children's waiting area; and sensory-friendly adaptations, including specialised lighting, visual supports and equipment.
In addition, staff have undertaken specialist training in neurodiversity awareness and communication, delivered by AsIAm, Ireland's national autism charity.
Speaking about the initiative, Hazel Egan, Clinical Nurse Manager 2, said, "Through our work in theatre, Zita and I recognised that the perioperative environment can be overwhelming for many patients, particularly those who are neurodivergent or have additional needs. However, anxiety and sensory overload can affect anyone attending hospital for a procedure.
"Our aim was to create a more welcoming, supportive and inclusive environment where all patients feel safe, respected and understood throughout their journey."
Louisea Burke, general manager at Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore, added: "This initiative reflects our strong commitment to delivering inclusive, person-centred care for every patient who comes through our doors.
"By listening to the experiences of children, adults and their families, we have been able to make meaningful improvements that create a more supportive and responsive environment.
"The SHINE project is an important step forward in ensuring that patients with additional needs receive the same high standard of care, in a setting that recognises and respects their individual needs.
"We are proud of the collaboration behind this work and remain focused on continuing to enhance accessibility and patient experience across our hospital."
This initiative was made possible with the support and funding of the Midlands Nursing and Midwifery Planning and Development Unit (NMPDU).
In recognition of its innovation and positive impact, the project was nominated recently for a HSE Spark Award.