Wiganers urged to get out of hospital PJs

Wigan health chiefs are backing a campaign to get patients out of their pyjamas and up and dressed during their stay in hospital.
Patients are being encouraged to get out of their pyjamas during a hospital stay, as part of an intiative to celebrate the NHSs 70th birthdayPatients are being encouraged to get out of their pyjamas during a hospital stay, as part of an intiative to celebrate the NHSs 70th birthday
Patients are being encouraged to get out of their pyjamas during a hospital stay, as part of an intiative to celebrate the NHSs 70th birthday

The 70-day End PJ Paralysis scheme has been launched to mark the NHS’s 70th birthday in June.

The aim is to encourage patients, particularly those who are elderly, to dress in their day clothes rather than their PJs in a bid to reduce the length of their stay in hospital.

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During the campaign wards in hospitals across the borough will be joining in the project.

Pauline Law, Executive Director of Nursing for Wrightington, Wigan, and Leigh NHS Trust (WWL) said: “We will be aiming to make a massive difference and will be closely monitoring the activity by asking staff two question: ‘How many patients are dressed in day clothes at midday’ and ‘Of these patients how many have been mobilised?’

“We will ensure that our patients do not spend any time longer than is clinically necessary in hospital.”

Studies have shown that just 10 days of bed rest in hospital can lead to the equivalent of 10 years ageing of the muscles of patients over 80.

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Local care homes have been contact by WWL to request that patients attending as an in-patient are sent with day clothes.

Visitors and relatives are being made aware of this request also.

Ms Law added: “While the campaign comes to an end on June 26, we want this to become or normal practice.

“This campaign ends just before the NHS’s 70th birthday so our successes will help make those celebrations of all the hard work and commitment of staff even greater.”

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The Wigan Observer is looking to run a series of articles celebrating the wonderful institution the NHS is.

Are you a member of staff who has worked within the NHS for many years, or are you a patient or relative who has benefited?

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Ring (01942) 506271 or email [email protected]