Harrogate District Hospital has adopted VERNACARE’s new award-winning VernaFem female urinal. The product was trialled on the hospital’s Nidderdale female general surgery, gynaecology, urology and gastroenterology ward, where it is providing an alternative to catheterisation for postoperative patients.
Jennie Foster, senior ward sister, said: “We were keen to trial the female urinal to assess its benefits in improving patient comfort and dignity, as well as in reducing the need to use catheters and slipper pans. Gynaecological surgical patients are being offered the VernaFem within an hour of returning to the ward, which means that some patients are able to toilet themselves without any assistance from nurses. This provides more privacy and dignity for patients and also releases nursing time for other elements of care.”
As a single-use pulp product it is a safe and hygienic method that can reduce the risk and cost associated with healthcareacquired infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). VernaFem was designed and developed in collaboration with NHS clinicians. Its wide base increases stability and capacity, combined with a wide opening to reduce spillage. The product’s curved design moulds to the female body for ease and comfort in a range of positions – making it easy to use independently, or with minimal nursing assistance.
