Enter and view: Maternity Ward D

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Summary of report content

Healthwatch Blackpool undertook an enter and view visit to Maternity Ward D at the Blackpool Victoria Hospital on 27 March 2025.  They spoke to 9 patients.

Overall Healthwatch Blackpool had an extremely positive experience visiting Maternity ward D. Staff were kind and welcoming, and were more than happy for us to speak with members of the team and patients.

The main areas for improvement: 

  • A relative reported an unpleasant, unhygienic smell from one of the reclining chairs. Implement a regular cleaning and deodorising schedule for all patient chairs to maintain hygiene and comfort.
  • A patient expressed confusion due to a lack of consistency in staff, especially while breastfeeding, as each staff member had a different approach. Where possible, provide consistent staff support for breastfeeding patients, or ensure a standardised approach is communicated across all staff.
  • Concerns were raised about poor communication among staff and issues with the notes system. Improve communication between note sharing and ensure all staff are updated with patient care plans.
  • Patients experienced delays in receiving prescribed medication. Ensure that medication delays are addressed and reduced where possible.

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General details

Local Healthwatch
Healthwatch Blackpool
Publication date
Date evidence capture began
Date evidence capture finished
Key themes
Administration (records, letters, results)
Building, Decor and Facilities, including health and safety
Caring, kindness, respect and dignity
Cleanliness, Hygiene and Infection Control
Communication with patients; treatment explanation; verbal advice
Consent, choice, user involvement and being listened to
Follow-on treatment and continuity of care
Integration of services and communication between professionals
Medication, prescriptions and dispensing
Staffing - levels and training

Methodology and approach

Was the work undertaken in partnership with another organisation?
No
Primary research method used
Observation (eg Enter and View)
If an Enter and View methodology was applied, was the visit announced or unannounced?
Not Known

Details of health and care services included in the report

Details of health and care services included in the report
Maternity care

Details of people who shared their views

Number of people who shared their views
9
Pregnancy/maternity
Given birth in the last 26 weeks
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