Recognising the need for a more efficient, professional, and cleanable method, the team has transitioned from using assorted backpacks and plastic bags to specially designed yellow and blue bags.
The yellow bags, conceived by the ELFT Community Childrens Nursing Service nurses, are tailored to fit the unique requirements of children's medical equipment. They are easy to clean, lightweight, and designed without clear windows to maintain discretion and avoid alarming young patients. These bags carry vital tools like blood taking equipment and dressings, streamlining the nurses' work and ensuring they're always prepared.
The blue bags are intended for additional equipment such as medical devices and syringes, accommodating the varied needs of each nurse's day. They also include a versatile kneeling pad for interactions at a child's level, doubling as a clean surface when needed. The bags' flexible carrying options ensure they meet the diverse preferences of community staff.
These bags represent a significant step forward in supporting families more effectively.
By ensuring that nurses have all necessary equipment on hand, the initiative minimises unnecessary trips and delays, ultimately enhancing the care provided to children and families.
Emily Guilmant-Farry RNC BSc(hons), Community Children’s Matron in Newham said
"These bags have transformed how we carry our equipment, making our visits more efficient and focused on the patient's needs."
Katie Houghton, Managing Director of CorrMed says, “I’m delighted with the response that we have had to the new, specially designed children’s pouch. We’ve taken advice and direction from the Children’s Community Nurses (CCNs) at ELFT, which means that we actually get to solve the problems that the majority of CCNs and Adult Community Nurses are experiencing on a daily basis.”
The collaboration with CorrMed in co-designing these bags highlights ELFT's commitment to innovation and practical solutions in community healthcare.