Revitalising critical care storage for PaNDR at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Overview

The Paediatric and Neonatal Decision Support and Retrieval Service (PaNDR) at Addenbrookes Hospital delivers life-saving care, transporting neonates and children across the East of England. Their work demands precision and efficiency, especially when managing essential medical supplies. However, their existing storage systems were not meeting their needs, leading to inefficiencies and infection risks.

Customer Goals

Improved efficiency

The existing shelving units weren’t optimised for efficiency, with products frequently overflowing and creating a chaotic environment. PaNDR’s main goal was a streamlined, efficient storage system.

Clear organisation with colour coding

Differentiating between critical sections for Breathing, Airways, and Circulation was crucial for quick access during emergencies.

Enhanced infection control 

Removing cardboard boxes and replacing them with easy-to-clean storage units was a top priority to minimise infection risks.

Dust and dirt protection

PaNDR needed secure storage solutions with roller shutters to prevent contamination and maintain a clean environment.

Mobility 

Flexibility was key. Storage units needed to be easily movable to other rooms when required. 

Our Approach

Space planning and measurement 

PaNDR’s dedicated Ocura Account Manager, Warwick, conducted an on-site assessment, correcting initial inaccurate measurements to ensure optimal space utilisation. A tailored space planning service maximised storage capacity while maintaining accessibility.

Infection control expertise

By recommending our Clini-Store™ lockable carts with tambour doors, Ocura addressed PaNDR’s concerns about infection risks and cleanliness. The smooth surfaces and absence of open shelving ensured easier cleaning and hygiene compliance.

Customised storage solutions

Ocura introduced a system with colour-coded sections, enhancing organisation and efficiency. These solutions aligned with PaNDR’s specific operational needs, ensuring fast and easy access to essential supplies.

Products Delivered

Ocura provided an array of Clini-Store™ lockable carts, tailored to PaNDR’s requirements:

• Double E carts with tambour doors, equipped with 16 x 100mm and 4 x 200mm deep ABS baskets.
• Single E carts, similarly configured but optimised for smaller spaces.
• Double U carts, with identical dimensions to the E carts, providing additional storage options.
• Single U carts, compact and efficient, suited for constrained areas.

These carts were equipped with pull-down shutters to protect contents from dust and fitted with castors for mobility.

Outcomes

Efficient and organised storage

The new colour-coded system clearly distinguished between Breathing, Airways, and Circulation supplies, reducing retrieval times and improving workflow.

Enhanced infection control

The elimination of cardboard boxes and integration of easy-to-clean units helped PaNDR meet stringent infection control standards.

Dust-free environment

Roller shutters effectively shields stored items from dust and dirt, maintaining a hygienic space.

Mobility and flexibility

The castor-equipped carts allow for easy relocation when required, adding flexibility to PaNDR’s operations.

Space optimisation

With Ocura’s space planning expertise, PaNDR maximised their available storage area, ensuring no space was wasted.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Ocura and PaNDR demonstrates the power of tailored storage solutions in enhancing healthcare efficiency and safety. By addressing PaNDR’s unique challenges, Ocura delivered a system that supports their critical care retrieval missions.

This partnership underscores Ocura’s commitment to empowering healthcare providers with smart, effective, and hygienic storage solutions.