The machine is being used by physiotherapy teams across Kettering General Hospital to support patients with a range of respiratory needs. By helping patients breathe more easily and reducing the risk of chest infections, the equipment can support recovery and improve comfort during a hospital stay.
Rudo Chimera, a specialist Respiratory Physiotherapist from Kettering General Hospital said:
The Nippy Clearway 2 is an advanced airway clearance device that forms an important part of chest physiotherapy treatment. It helps patients with an ineffective cough to clear secretions from their lungs by simulating a natural cough, supporting their breathing, reducing respiratory complications, and aiding recovery.
The machine can support patients in a variety of clinical settings, including urgent and out-of-hours situations.
The idea to introduce the cough assist machine came from the physiotherapy team, who identified the difference the equipment could make for patients requiring additional respiratory support. To support their funding application to the Charity, team members also undertook their own fundraising activities including a team of runners from the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit who took part in the Amazing Northampton Run.
As well as the team’s fundraising efforts, the project was made possible thanks to the generosity of Northamptonshire Health Charity supporters. Alison Spice, Head of Expenditure and Impact at Northamptonshire Health Charity, said:
We’re incredibly proud of the physiotherapy team for championing this project and helping raise funds to support it, and grateful for the generous donations from the public. Donations help us fund equipment and projects like this that go beyond NHS funding alone, improving the experience of patients, families and staff across University Hospitals of Northamptonshire.
The new equipment is now in use at Kettering General Hospital, helping patients with complex respiratory needs receive the additional support they need while giving clinical teams another valuable tool to aid recovery.
To find out more about Northamptonshire Health Charity and support projects across University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, visit www.nhcharity.co.uk.
