Day Services and Clinics
Dorothy House offers a range of services that patients and their families can access for advice and support. These include Day Hospice, therapies, family support and spiritual care through our chaplaincy.
If you have any questions and would like to speak to us, please contact our Clinical Coordination Centre on: 0345 0130 555
Our Day Hospice gives patients the opportunity to meet with other patients in a safe and friendly environment, and to share experiences. The Dorothy House team is also on-hand to discuss anything of concern including how we can monitor symptoms, answer any questions, help with present issues and plan ahead.
Blood transfusions
Dorothy House is working in collaboration with the Royal United Hospital (RUH) haematology team to provide a community-based outpatient blood transfusion service at the Hospice. The aim of this service is to facilitate a blood transfusion for patients as a day case, providing them with a reactive and quick service, in a relaxing environment. Our staff are committed to providing the best possible care for all our patients, upholding their privacy, dignity, choices and confidentiality.
Why do I need a blood transfusion?
You may have been advised to have a blood transfusion because you have a low Haemoglobin
(Hb) level that has been detected through a recent blood test. The administration of one or more units of blood may eradicate or reduce some of the unpleasant symptoms you are experiencing.
Do I need to prepare for a blood transfusion?
Prior to admission, you will have a blood sample taken at your GP practice or by your District Nurse. The results of this sample will be available to our team at Dorothy House prior to your blood transfusion. On the day, please bring with you any medications you need to take while you are at the Hospice.
What happens on the day?
When you arrive, you will be met by one of our team who will ensure you are fit to have your planned blood transfusion. A tiny soft tube (cannula) will be inserted into a vein in your arm and you will have routine set of observations recorded including your temperature, pulse and blood pressure.
You will be asked to wear an identity bracelet giving details of your full name, date of birth, NHS number and any medications you are allergic to. Each unit of blood takes between 2-4 hours to complete. While each unit of blood is being given, you will be monitored closely. It is important that if you feel unwell during your transfusion, you notify one of the team immediately.
What happens after?
Following completion of your transfusion, you will be able to go home.
What if I have any questions or concerns about receiving a blood transfusion?
You can talk to a member of our team if you have any concerns. Our contact information is on the back page of this leaflet.
Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues, usually in the arms or legs. It can cause chronic tissue inflammation, leading to eventual lack of movement in that area.
Our nursing teams can help with a range of treatment options to help with lymphoedema including information on skin care, compression garments, exercise and a specialist form of massage.
Community Palliative Care Clinics
We can see you within dedicated clinics that are based near your home, bringing our specialist care closer to you.
Clinics are currently in place at Winsley, Melksham, Chippenham and Keynsham.
Further clinics will be launched across our 700 square mile region in the months ahead.
For more information or to book an appointment at a local clinic, please contact our Clinical Coordination Centre on 0345 0130 555.
Acupuncture
Clinic information: Referral service for patients
Day & time: Tuesday, 10am – 3pm
Location: Winsley
For more information, please call 0345 0130 555
Download our acupuncture patient leaflet here.