Visitors to Poole Hospital were given the chance to find out more about the wide range of clinical research and innovation taking place in the hospital as part of International Clinical Trials Day.
The day, on 23 May, offered a chance for staff to raise awareness of the significant contribution clinical trials make to healthcare. Trials are one of the best ways to compare different approaches to preventing and treating health problems, which health professionals use to better understand which treatments work best.
At any one time, 150 clinical trials take place at the hospital. These range from feeding patients through veins and through the stomach to gauge which is more effective, and a recent trial that tested whether serious conditions like sepsis can be diagnosed accurately from a patient’s bedside. Another trial is looking at whether electrical stimulation of the throat can speed up the recovery of safe swallowing in stroke patients.
Dr Angus Wood, clinical director for research and innovation, says the hospital is committed to clinical research and its benefits.
“International Clinical Trials Day gives staff and the public an opportunity to see the importance of clinical research and the great work we do at the trust,” he said.
“We’re committed to clinical research because we believe this leads to a better outcome for patients.”
Sarah Chessell, head of research and innovation, added: “Research is integral to the care provided to patients and in providing support to healthcare practice. Through patients taking part in research, the NHS continues to learn about a whole range of health conditions including children, midwifery, cancer care and critical care, to name just a few.”
