Bringing hospital care into homes

A pregnant woman with severe morning sickness was able to best manage her mental health by staying at home in bed and being visited by nurses from St George Hospital.

Another patient with a traumatic brain injury was able to be kept at home where the risk of infection was vastly reduced, and where he felt far less anxious because he was able to be looked after by his wife.

These are just two of the many success stories of the SESLHD’s highly regarded hospital at home service, which operates out of St George, Sutherland and Prince of Wales hospitals.

Belinda Stranix, the Nurse Unit Manager for Hospital in the Home at St George Hospital, said the demand for the service is increasing.

“Patients really appreciate the fact that it keeps them out of hospital, and gives them a sense of autonomy,” she said.

“They often experience better overall well-being when they stay at home, where they can enjoy the comfort of their own bed, home-cooked meals, and the companionship of their family and pets."

Home hospitals replicate the care provided by bricks and mortar hospitals, blending telehealth with face-to-face care by doctors, nurses and allied health practitioners.

The teams, equipped with mobile x-rays and ultrasound machines, IV antibiotics, blood tests, and medication, are able to care for patients at home by monitoring their pulse, temperature and blood pressure.

The patients have health problems ranging from cardiac failure, pneumonia, blood clots, severe mastitis, and mental health issues. For the elderly, in particular, staying at home reduces the risk of falls and infections, and eases anxiety when taken out of their daily routine.

Now in its fifth year, the St George Hospital in the Home program is run by a dedicated team of eight nurses and three doctors who are making a big impact in their community.

 “Helping patients receive quality care and achieve excellent outcomes in the comfort of their own home is deeply rewarding,” Belinda said.

“The service also helps ensure hospital beds are available for patients with more urgent needs, so everyone benefits.”