Dedicated hydration stations have been installed to help frontline staff at the RUH in Bath stay refreshed, thanks to funds raised in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The stations, which look like small fridges, have been installed across the hospital, with one now available on every ward.
Rhyannon Boyd, Head of Fundraising said: “It might seem simple but we all know it’s important to stay hydrated. Our staff are constantly reminding our patients to drink fluids but the message is also important for them too.
“It has been difficult for our staff to have easy access to a cold drink on our wards and during the summer it gets very warm in the hospital.
“They also have the added pressure of wearing personal protection equipment (PPE) throughout their shifts so it’s important that our clinical colleagues stay hydrated.
“Thanks to the generosity of our donors and NHS charities together grant the new hydration stations are making a big difference to staff.
“We’ve also been able to provide thousands of reusable water bottles for our colleagues. They can label the bottles with their name and keep a cold drink in the hydration station throughout their shift.”
Since the rollout of the hydration stations, there has been a positive response from staff.
Victoria Marlow, Senior Sister on Philip Yeoman ward said: “It’s great to have a dedicated drinks station. We really appreciate the generosity that has enabled us to have this on our ward and we all love the water bottles too.
“It will definitely make it easier for us all to keep hydrated, a big thank you to everyone who donated.”
