An Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) from The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital has been awarded May’s Health Hero Award for their innovation and ideas.
Louise Jones, who works in Theatres in the anaesthetics department, has been recognised for her commitment to the environment and for setting a shining example for infection prevention and control (IPC) standards across the Trust.
She was nominated by Dr Ruth Longfellow, Chief Medical Officer and Consultant Anaesthetist, who said: “Louise is passionate about the environment and has implemented a number of ways to increase the amount of waste we can recycle in theatres.
“The most recent challenge Louise has embraced is infection, prevention and control in theatres. She has produced cleaning charts, clearly visible to patients and staff to see, detailing which areas have been cleaned and how frequently.
“I admire Louise’s innovation and drive to make improvements.”
The monthly award is presented to unsung heroes from across the hospital who are nominated by their colleagues for going the extra mile.
Louise said: “Thank you Ruth for your kind nomination and words.
“I have a keen interest in IPC and ensuring that our department maintains these high standards.
“I couldn’t do it without the help of the whole theatre team and the other IPC link practitioners, and I would like to thank them for their help.”
She was presented her award, consisting of a keepsake certificate, special badge and box of chocolates donated by the League of Friends, by Stacey Keegan, Interim Chief Executive.
Stacey said: “This month, we also celebrated International Operating Department Practitioner Day on 14 May, so it was even more special to present this award to Louise.”
“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank her for her positive attitude and new ideas, that have improved the way we work in theatres. She is an extremely worthy winner, and I am delighted to announce her May’s Health Hero.”
Photo caption (from left to right): Stacey Keegan, Interim Chief Executive; Louise Jones, Operating Department Practitioner; David Blackwell, Practitioner Team Manager.