9 May 2008

New ultrasound scanner benefits South Tyrone population

The South Tyrone Hospital Local Comforts and Free Funds General Committee has presented a special ultrasound scanner which will benefit older people in the Dungannon area.

Jennifer Eitel, Chairperson of the Committee, said, "Incontinence can be distressing for the individual and their carers, and research from the National Service Framework for Older People states that it is the second most common reason for admission to residential care. Anything that eases the condition and reduces admissions is very welcome.”

Mary Burke, Head of Non Acute Hospitals at the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, says that the scanner will be of great benefit to patients.

Mrs Burke said “The bladder scanner will result in a reduction of invasive procedures for our patients which can contribute to the incidence of hospital-acquired infections. Additionally the bladder scanner will improve our assessment of patients who may have retention of urine and hence the practitioner will administer the appropriate treatment.”