Tipperary hospital gets new ultrasound equipment thanks to community's generosity

In a remarkable display of community support, the Friends of Nenagh Hospital has donated €43,000 towards the acquisition of cutting-edge point-of-care ultrasound systems for the hospital.

The generous donation by the Friends of Nenagh Hospital further advances medical care for patients in the Mid-West.

Called Clarius Scanners, these wireless devices offer exceptional image quality, enabling staff to perform point-of-care ultrasound for inpatients and for those attending the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU).

Through their numerous applications and benefits, the integration of these scanners will enhance patient care at Nenagh Hospital.

Point-of-care ultrasound, also known as “bedside ultrasound”, is a diagnostic tool that allows medical practitioners to visualise the body’s internal structures in real time, enabling healthcare professionals to make quicker, more informed decisions about a patient's condition.

Another advantage of the new devices funded by the Friends of Nenagh Hospital is that the procedure is non-invasive, painless, and radiation-free, making it a more comfortable experience for patients. The wireless capabilities of this new technology allows for easy sharing of images and information between medical professionals.

The scanners can further serve as a valuable tool for medical education and training.

Healthcare professionals can use these devices to practice and refine their ultrasound skills, ensuring they remain apprised of new medical technology and techniques.

Dr Andrew Scott, a Respiratory Consultant at Nenagh Hospital, has integrated the new devices into his practice for assessing pleural effusions.

By utilising this advanced technology, Dr Scott can visualise fluid in the pleural space quickly and accurately at the bedside, enabling him to make informed decisions about treatment options for his patients.

This innovative approach not only minimises complications but also enhances patient comfort and shortens recovery times.

Furthermore, Dr Scott employs the system for superficial lymph node biopsies in the diagnosis of lung cancer. The real-time imaging capabilities of the scanner allow for more precise biopsies, increasing diagnostic accuracy and reducing the need for additional invasive procedures.

Dr Scott has also found the new device invaluable in aiding intravenous (IV) cannula access.

While point-of-care ultrasound has emerged as a powerful diagnostic tool, it is essential to recognise that it does not replace traditional radiological tests, such as standard ultrasound or CT scans. Instead, when used skilfully by healthcare professionals, point-of-care ultrasound serves as a complementary tool that can guide doctors towards the correct diagnosis more efficiently at the bedside.

The integration of point-of-care ultrasound into the training of non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs) at Nenagh Hospital will help attract more trainees and doctors.

The Friends of Nenagh Hospital’s contribution to the hospital serves as a shining example of the positive change that can be achieved when communities come together to support one another. With the continued backing of organisations like the Friends of Nenagh Hospital, and collaboration with academic institutions, Nenagh Hospital can provide exceptional care to its patients and contribute to the advancement of medical science.

The generosity and commitment displayed by the residents of Nenagh and Tipperary serve as an inspiring example of the power of collective action to effect positive change. Through their continued support of initiatives like the Friends of Nenagh Hospital, the community is leaving a lasting legacy of improved health and wellbeing for future generations.