New Down’s Syndrome manikin helping with staff training for young patients with genetic conditions

The team on the Children’s Emergency Unit at Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust have successfully secured NHS England education funding to purchase a new Down’s Syndrome manikin for the department.

The manikin, which the team have named Gwen, represents all children with genetic conditions and will give staff the chance to practice their clinical training; learning about specific issues often associated with Trisomy 21.

Down’s Syndrome is also associated with other congenital conditions, and children with these conditions are at an increased risk of sepsis or other serious medical concerns including with their heart or digestive system.

Gwen will support training for staff at all levels, increasing the awareness of these medical issues and ultimately improving the care that these patients receive.

Dr Phil Peacock, Consultant in Paediatric Emergency Medicine, said: “Hundreds of young patients visit our Children’s Emergency Unit every week, and some of these youngsters might have additional or complex needs alongside the injury or illness they are needing care for. This includes children with Down's syndrome and other genetic conditions.

“It’s really important that our staff are equipped with the training and skills they need to provide exceptional care to every patient, and to recognise where they might need to adapt this care to meet the individual needs of a patient.”

The team are also committed to equality and inclusion in the department, recognising that some patients, including those with a genetic condition, might find the hospital environment more distressing – particularly if they have difficulty with processing sensations such as noise or bright lights.

Gwen will also help to educate clinicians on any adjustments they might need to make to the way care is provided to those with additional or complex needs, whilst increasing the representation of patients with increased health challenges, which is at the core of the organisations equality, diversity and inclusion values.

 “It’s also really important we remain aligned with the Trust’s wider equality, diversity and inclusion work, so that no patient is ever disadvantaged and our staff provide the very best care to all,” Dr Peacock added.

Recently, a sensory room for under 17s has also been completed in the Children’s Emergency Unit, providing a safe and comfortable space where younger patients with additional needs, such as autism or a learning disability, can wait and be treated away from the bustle of the main department.

The sensory room has padded walls and seating, visual sensory toys and equipment and calming tones which depict nature

The first training sessions with Gwen took place at the end of January, with the manikin set to form part of regular training for all staff in urgent and emergency care.