Ipswich Hospital use sensitively placed symbols to alert staff when patients have additonal needs

Visual Alerts

Patients with additional needs are recognised at a glance at Ipswich Hospital via the use of a simple A4 laminated sheet of symbols depicting:

• Eye = sight impairment
• Ear = hearing impairment – may need British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter
• Falling person = at risk of falling
• ‘Forget-me-not’ flower = has dementia/may be confused
• Interpreter = English not understood – interpreter required – may also mean BSL interpreter needed
• Two Ticks = non-specified disability

Please 'click' on link below to see actual signs

The symbols needed by the patient are circled or ticked and then this is wiped off for reuse with the next patient. Magnetic versions of the symbols are also available and can be attached to the bed-head.

Consideration to the need for a Visual Communication Alert Symbol is given during the admission process and the ongoing assessment of patient needs - this is discussed, in full, with the patient and consent sought before using the symbols. If the patient is unable to give consent, staff will act in the patient’s ‘best interest’. The patient’s family may be involved in the ‘best interests’ discussion and a record is kept in the patient’s notes.

A leaflet outlining the benefits of the use of the symbols is available and is provided to the patient/carer to aid the consent process.

Visual Alert Stickers are also available and can be affixed to a patient’s notes without need for gaining consent.

A guideline for staff has been written and this guideline, the leaflet and symbols are available from Ipswich Hospital directly on 01473 702 101 – Patient Experience Office. Or via sarah.higson@ipswichhospital.nhs.uk

More information