Clinics
At Dorothy House we run a selection of Clinics that are focused on specific areas of patient care. These may be run independently or in partnership with the Royal United Hospital or other healthcare providers.
Clinic attendance is by referral and you can speak to your Dorothy House contact for further information.
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.
Living well with long term conditions
The Living Well with Long Term Conditions Clinic is a monthly Nurse and Physiotherapy led Clinic. The focus of the Clinic is to empower patients to live well with their condition, offer support, exercise/gym, nursing and physiotherapy support as well as relaxation/wellbeing.
If you would like to discuss a referral to the Clinic, please phone the Dorothy House Clinical Coordination Centre on 0345 0130 555 and ask to speak to someone in the Therapies Team.