Minor Procedures Suite
- Four-bed unit
- Comprehensive and dedicated service for patients undergoing minor procedures
The type of procedures performed vary on a daily basis but the unit is purposely designed to provide a quick and flexible service for patients who require the following:
- bone marrow biopsies
- lumbar punctures
- central venous catheter insertion
- skin biopsies
- intrathecal chemotherapy
- chest drain insertions
- other minor operations.
The unit is organised and run by specialist nurses dedicated to the care of cancer and day surgery patients. A combination of medical and nursing staff perform the procedures. Relatives are allowed to remain with patients if this is preferred.
Nursing on the Minor Procedures Unit
Typically nurses in this area have advanced clinical roles, for example performing bone marrow biopsies and central venous catheterisation. Medical colleagues work alongside them to provide a comprehensive service.
There are clearly developed guidelines and patient group directions for nurse administration of conscious sedation and local anaesthetic.
Ongoing audits of service provision and complication rates are also key features of the nursing service, as is working within the wider multidisciplinary team.
Find out more
To find out more about the Minor Procedures Suite, please contact Louise McNamara, Matron for Haemato-Oncology Advanced Practice and Ambulatory Care, on louise.mcnamara@rmh.nhs.uk.