This month, we recognise the Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU) for their outstanding commitment to improving patient care and embracing change with a positive, proactive approach.
As part of a pilot project, SAU has successfully doubled its Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) capacity—increasing from 15 to 30 chairs to help ease patient flow from the Emergency Department. Since November, the team has also taken on additional plastics, ENT, and HPB pathways, further streamlining patient care and reducing pressure on acute services.
The impact has been significant: more patients are receiving timely treatment in the right place, avoiding long waits in the Emergency Department. The team has fully embraced this transformation, showing resilience, flexibility, and a strong commitment to improving both patient experience and ward efficiency.
A nomination for the team highlights their exceptional dedication:
The SAU team has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to quality improvement. Their willingness to adapt, take on new challenges, and continuously seek ways to improve patient flow and care is truly commendable. They have worked collaboratively to integrate changes into their daily routines, creating a stronger and more cohesive team culture.
SAU provides Same Day Emergency Care for patients referred to General Surgery, Urology, ENT, Vascular, and OMFS, as well as short-stay emergency admissions. Their dedication to excellence in an evolving healthcare environment has set a high standard, not just for efficiency but for patient safety and quality of care.
Change always comes with challenges, but the team’s commitment, adaptability, and determination have ensured that patients receive the best possible care. Their efforts have made a tangible difference—not just for those they treat but for colleagues across the Trust.
From all of us at CUH, thank you to the Surgical Assessment Unit for your hard work, innovation, and dedication. Your impact is felt every day, and we are incredibly grateful!