Education and Training
Friends of PICU helps support the PICU with more than just equipment to provide the highest quality care. We also understand that the most important resource in the PICU is the staff. In critical care there is a continuous need for development. New medicines, techniques and equipment are often introduced requiring continuous training and education. Staff learning, development, and progression is healthy and creates an inquisitive and informed environment, and allows the compassionate nature of the staff in the unit to shine through.
We help to promote all of these things by funding specific courses and providing educational tools and resources.
In 2016 we part-funded a nurse education facilitator to support new and junior nurses with their PICU training at the bedside so that they can be mentored and nurtured to be able to meet new and unfamiliar challenges.
In 2019 we funded a child simulator for Bronchoscopy training promoting the spread of this highly specialised skill.
In 2020 we have delivered iPads with new detailed software to facilitate varied training simulation. They enable instant changes in the simulated patient monitor to enhance the fidelity and reliability of the training.
The Butterfly mobile ultrasounds that we purchased this year add another aspect to the growing reputation of the Southampton PICU as a leader in the ultrasound field, widening the reach of this technology.
We are also jointly funding the launch of a new child simulation equipment; a more advanced manikin that can be used to present numerous medical scenarios found within the PICU environment.
The team at the Southampton PICU are amongst the best medical professionals working in paediatric care, providing an exceptional service. The staff are a key asset to the PICU and their skills, knowledge and experience of new equipment, new situations is vital to the progression of the PICU and the quality of the patient experience. We are proud to be able to support the PICU team.
Donate to Friends of PICU
If you would like to make a donation towards equipment and services, large and small, high cost and low cost, to support lifesaving care for critically ill children and their families please follow this link and you will see the various ways in which you can donate.