Bladder scanners
The neurology department is seeking a bladder scanner to reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Bladder dysfunction affects up to 85% of people with MS. Currently the department lacks a bladder scanner which means patients have to be referred to the very busy urology department. This can lead to months-long delays. During this waiting period, patients often experience a significant decline in their quality of life, suffering from urinary symptoms that impact independence, mental wellbeing and physical health.
The frailty same day emergency care unit was established in October 2024 with the aim of improving the emergency department’s bed flow by identifying frail patients early, providing geriatric assessments, and ensuring safe discharge with better community follow-up. Many frail patients have a history of falls caused by, for example, heart conditions, infections, and urinary retention. Constipation and urinary retention are the most common reasons for frail patients to be confused and agitated. Currently the team have to borrow a bladder scanner from the acute assessment unit, causing delays in diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of admission and deconditioning.
Cost £7,000 per machine