Enter and view: Pymmes Zero Ward

Healthwatch Enfield gather information on people’s experiences of health and social care services and there are times when it is appropriate for Healthwatch Enfield to see and hear for themselves how services are being delivered: these visits are called ‘Enter and View’, they are not inspections.

Healthwatch Enfield visited Pymmes Zero Ward, North Middlesex University Hospital on 23 February 2016.

The summary of findings highlighted areas in relation to patient feedback, staff feedback and observation. At the time of the visit in February 2016, Healthwatch Enfield formed the impression that Pymmes Zero ward is well-led and that the matron, manager and team all strive to provide high quality compassionate care to frail elderly patients, albeit in rather challenging circumstances. Healthwatch Enfield noted some examples of good practice in the ward, which we would like to commend, including an open culture amongst the team; the mentoring of less experienced staff by those who have more experience; and a well-designed welcome pack. Comments from patients and carers we met during the visit were mixed. Some patients and their relatives told Healthwatch Enfield that care in the ward is good, while others said that staff are not always gentle, and that at times there are not enough staff to provide prompt attention when patients require assistance.

The report includes 13 recommendations.