An NHS team helping patients with urgent health issues have been praised by the family of a young man with autism – several years after their first visit.
Luther Yarker and his mum Karen visited the urgent treatment service at the University Hospital of North Tees earlier this month after he had a fall and injured his shoulder.
The visit is something Luther, 13 from Billingham, finds very challenging due to his autism.
Karen explains: “Luther is autistic and has challenges communicating.
“He struggles with crowds, noise, and being stared at, which can quickly escalate his distress.”
However, Karen knew – through her previous visit with Luther to the urgent treatment centre at the University Hospital of Hartlepool eight years ago – that the service was flexible to his health needs.
She said: “On that occasion the team recognised Luther’s distress and sensory needs and quickly moved him through the department to somewhere quiet, safe and calm.
“Our recent visit was no different – the whole team, from Alistair at the front door to nurse Kelly who treated him and to everyone else involved.
“I explained our previous experience and the team responded quickly, providing somewhere quiet before the team could see him.
“Luther was then taken for an x-ray where every one who treated him introduced themselves, used his name, gave simple direct instructions and made every adjustment needed. These are all things that help Luther, he needs to be clear about what is happening and feels more comfortable when he knows who everyone is.
“The nurse then explained the results, provided a sling and the whole visited was completed within an hour.
“I could not praise the service enough, each and every one of them is fantastic. I have worked in the NHS before in the 111 service and I know this job isn’t easy and what great work staff do.”
Important for service to be flexible
Nicola Grieves is head of nursing for urgent treatment centre services across University Hospitals Tees – with sites at North Tees and Hartlepool hospitals as well as at The James Cook University Hospital and Redcar Primary Care Hospital.
She said: “We know how important it is to be flexible to any patient who comes through these front doors, no matter who they are or whatever their challenge may be.
“Our staff are trained and very experienced in helping people like Luther and I know the team will be delighted to hear his mum’s lovely feedback.”
Urgent treatment centres – how to use
If you are unwell and need to use the service we advise that you book an appointment first visiting 111.nhs.uk or calling NHS 111, as this will help to speed up your treatment.
If you have a minor injury, you can still walk into the centres without an appointment.