07.12.2023

Columbia University – Lancet Enquiry

Last week, we received an enquiry from a resident of Medical Genetics in Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, who requested our Niche Heel stick safety Lancets.  The purpose of the enquiry was to perform a clinical trial to change to sample by which to screen newborns. In Columbia, they are currently screening for newborn genetical diseases using cord blood sampling from birth whereas in the UK and other countries, this is tested via Heel Stick. Therefore, the university were partaking in a trial where they tested the effect of both cord blood sampling and heel stick sampling.

Cord Blood sampling VS Blood Heel sticks

Cord blood sampling refers to the collection of blood from the umbilical cord of a newborn baby immediately after birth. The process of cord blood sampling is relatively simple and painless. After the baby is born and the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, a healthcare professional can collect the blood from the remaining umbilical cord using a needle and a collection bag or vial. This blood is then processed and stored in a cord blood bank for potential future use.

A heel stick test, also known as a heel prick or newborn screening, is a common procedure performed on newborns shortly after birth to screen for certain genetic, metabolic, and congenital disorders. The test involves pricking the baby’s heel and collecting a small amount of blood onto a special filter paper. This blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The heel stick test is typically done within the first few days of a baby’s life, often before they leave the hospital.

Niche Safety Lancets:

Features & Benefits

• Our Niche Heel Stick Safety Lancet helps to reduce severe complications such as osteomyelitis.
• Niche lancet – Low pain level.
• Improved blood spot taking with our Niche Infant Heel Warmers.
• Our innovation technology range has easy grip technology, resulting in improved sampling first time.

 

 

Niche Safety Lancets avoids the penetration of deep dermal pain fibres ultimately reducing risk of excessive bruising of the area and overall discomfort of baby.

Throughout 2023, Niche Healthcare have been trialling these lancets within hospitals across the United Kingdom and Ireland. We are grateful to be able to provide these products to NHS professionals and have our products used within hospitals. 

To learn more about the Niche Heel Stick Safety Lancets, read here.

 

30.11.2023

Dementia Clocks: Timekeeping with Compassion and Clarity

Dementia is a challenging condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, along with their families and caregivers. As dementia progresses, individuals often face cognitive decline, memory loss, and disorientation, making it increasingly challenging to understand and keep track of time. This can lead to confusion, anxiety, and distress. However, innovative solutions like dementia clocks have emerged to provide clarity and support for those living with dementia.

 

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses various cognitive impairments, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common cause. People with dementia often experience a decline in their ability to remember, think, and reason. This cognitive impairment can have a profound impact on their daily lives, making tasks that many of us take for granted, such as keeping track of time, increasingly difficult.

 

Did you know?

The first ever Niche Healthcare dementia clock order, was from May 2020 with NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde at LGB Ward 3.

 

 

The Importance of Time in Dementia Care

Time plays a critical role in the lives of individuals with dementia. It helps establish routines, aids in maintaining independence, and provides a sense of security. However, as dementia progresses, the concept of time becomes increasingly elusive. Traditional clocks with their hands or digital displays may be confusing for individuals with dementia, leading to disorientation and frustration.

 

Dementia Clocks: A Compassionate Solution

Dementia clocks are specialized timekeeping devices designed with the unique needs of individuals with dementia in mind. These clocks offer several features that simplify time-telling and reduce anxiety:

1. Large, Clear Display:

Dementia clocks typically feature large, easy-to-read displays with high-contrast numbers and letters. The clear, bold text makes it easier for individuals with cognitive impairments to decipher the time at a glance.

2. Day and Date:

Many dementia clocks display not only the time but also the day of the week and the date. This added information can help orient individuals and reduce confusion about what day it is.

3. Color-Coding:

Some dementia clocks use color-coded sections to represent different times of the day (e.g., morning, afternoon, evening). This visual cue helps individuals associate the time with their daily routines.

4. Automatic Time Updates:

Dementia clocks often synchronize with atomic time or internet time servers, ensuring that the displayed time is always accurate, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.

5. Alarms and Reminders:

Certain dementia clocks feature customizable alarms and reminders, helping individuals remember important events like medication schedules or daily routines.

6. Dimmable Display:

To avoid disrupting sleep patterns, many dementia clocks have adjustable brightness settings, allowing caregivers to dim the display at night while maintaining visibility during the day.

7. Battery Backup:

In case of power outages or if the clock is accidentally unplugged, many dementia clocks include a battery backup feature to ensure continued timekeeping.

 

Benefits for Caregivers

Dementia clocks not only provide valuable support for individuals living with dementia but also offer numerous benefits to caregivers and family members:

1. Reduced Stress:

Clear and easily readable clocks reduce the stress and frustration experienced by individuals with dementia, leading to more peaceful interactions and better overall quality of life.

2. Enhanced Care:

Caregivers can plan daily routines, administer medications, and coordinate activities more effectively with the help of dementia clocks, ensuring that individuals receive consistent care.

3. Peace of Mind:

Knowing that their loved ones have a reliable and understandable source of time can provide peace of mind to family members and caregivers.

 

Incorporating Dementia Clocks into Care Plans

Introducing a dementia clock into the home environment or a care facility can be a simple yet highly effective addition to a dementia care plan. Caregivers and healthcare professionals can follow these steps for successful integration:

1. Choose the Right Clock:

Select a dementia clock that suits the individual’s needs, considering factors like display style, alarms, and any specific features required.

2. Place the Clock Strategically:

Position the clock in a prominent location where the individual can see it easily, such as a living room, bedroom, or kitchen. Avoid placing it in locations that may cause confusion or stress, such as near mirrors or busy hallways.

3. Set the Clock Correctly:

Ensure that the clock is set to the correct time, date, and any personalized alarms or reminders.

4. Educate and Encourage:

Take the time to familiarize the individual with the clock’s features, and encourage them to use it as a reliable reference for time.

 

In Conclusion

Dementia clocks are a compassionate and practical solution that offers clarity and support to individuals living with dementia. They can reduce anxiety, improve daily routines, and enhance the quality of life for both those with dementia and their caregivers. As the prevalence of dementia continues to rise, these specialized timekeeping devices provide a valuable resource for maintaining a sense of time and routine in a world where time can become increasingly elusive. By embracing dementia clocks as part of comprehensive dementia care, we can help individuals with cognitive impairments live more fulfilling and structured lives, filled with moments of clarity and reassurance.

 

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk 

 

23.11.2023

What is a latex allergy within a healthcare setting?

If you have a latex allergy, your body mistakes latex for a harmful substance. Latex allergy may cause itchy skin, hives & even anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause throat swelling & severe difficulty breathing.

Healthcare workers exposed to latex products are at risk of developing latex sensitivity or latex allergy. An increasing number of healthcare workers are latex sensitive (CDC), with reactions ranging from irritant contact dermatitis & allergic contact sensitivity, to immediate, possibly life-threatening, sensitivity.

 

 

 

There are three types of latex reactions:

• Irritant contact dermatitis. This is the least-threatening type, & it’s not an allergic skin reaction.
• Allergic contact dermatitis. This is a delayed reaction to additives used in latex processing. 
• Immediate allergic reaction. (latex hypersensitivity)

 

Common hospital items that may contain latex which result in reactions include:

• Surgical & exam gloves.
• Catheters & other tubing.
• Sticky tape or electrode pads that can be attached to your skin during an ECG.
• Blood pressure cuffs.
• Tourniquets. (bands used to stop or slow blood flow)
• Stethoscopes. (used to listen to your heart beat & breathing)
• Cannulation Equipment. 

 

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk 

 

16.11.2023

Westcoast Ireland & Niche Office Solutions Ltd partnership

 

Due to the continuing development of healthcare products in Ireland, we are now looking to target other departments such as procurement, IT with the help of Irish a distributor, named Westcoast Ireland.

 

Westcoast Ireland – Overview

Established in 1984, Westcoast Ltd is a privately held company that distributes leading IT brands such as HP, HPE, Microsoft, Lenovo, Apple, and many others to a broad range of resellers, retailers and office product dealers in the UK and beyond.

Since then we’ve grown to become the number one UK distributor for many of our vendors and customers. We employ more than 1,200 people across a number of locations in the UK, Ireland and Europe.

Thanks to the hard work and dedication of everybody at Westcoast the company is flourishing. Our revenues have seen a sharp increase in recent years reaching £2 billion in 2017.

We are consistently ranked in the Sunday Times Top Track of the 100 Largest Privately-owned UK Companies, and are now the second largest privately-held business in the Thames Valley region.

Meeting Overview  – 10.10.2023

Our meeting was hosted by Ryan, a seasoned professional who previously worked for a reseller in Ireland. Ryan kicked off the conversation by sharing his experiences of working within the procurement sector in Ireland. He emphasized the challenges associated with onboarding with trusts due to their strict requirements.

Cost Savings Priority

One significant point Ryan highlighted was that most trusts in Ireland are always on the lookout for cost savings. This drive for cost efficiency often translates into a preference for the cheapest price, a practice that prevails nine times out of ten.

Procurement Process

Ryan provided a concise breakdown of the procurement process in Ireland, which bears similarities to the UK.

Leveraging Existing Hospital Relationships

One key advantage that we discussed was our existing setup with hospitals, which could significantly facilitate the procurement process. This pre-established connection holds the potential to streamline operations and foster trust between all stakeholders involved.

Efficient Delivery Solutions

Westcoast Ireland offers an efficient delivery system, providing next-day delivery to approximately 60% of Ireland and 48-hour delivery to the remaining 40%, categorized according to time zones.

Marketing Support

A notable advantage of partnering with Westcoast Ireland is their dedicated marketing department, which caters specifically to Irish customers. This department is enthusiastic about working with companies like ours and can provide extensive information on renowned brands like Brother, Canon, HP, and more. Additionally, Westcoast Ireland can design flyers for us if desired.

 

 

At the moment we have these following accounts from Ireland HSE organisations which are ordering from us (Niche Healthcare):

• Craigavon area Hospital
• University Hospital Limerick
• Daisy Hill Hospital
• Area Antrim Hospital
• Mayo General Hospital
• Galway University Hospital
• National Maternity Hospital
• Saolta University Hospital
• St Lukes Hospital
• University Hospital Waterford
• Rotunda Hospital

 

In conclusion, our meeting with Westcoast Ireland was a valuable exchange of information and insights into the Irish procurement landscape. It has opened a world of possibilities for our organization, and we look forward to exploring these opportunities and deepening our collaboration with Westcoast Ireland. Their tailored approach, dedicated marketing department, and commitment to efficiency and cost savings make them a compelling partner in the procurement journey.

 

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk 

 

09.11.2023

Understanding the NHS Badger Notes System: Have a closer look.

 

The NHS (National Health Service) is made up of hundreds of different organisations. It is there, to help improve people’s health and wellbeing, supporting any and every individual in their state of need. In 1948, the NHS service was set up to provide everyone in the UK with a healthcare program whether they had the ability to pay or not.

One department within the NHS, which makes what the health service is today, is the Maternity departments. This is a department which specialises in the treatment of mothers and unborn to newborn babies.

 

What is BadgerNet?                     

Technology is adapting every day, and because of this it allows communication to become a key part within the way people provide contact to each other. A new system which has started progressing within the maternity system, is something called BadgerNet. This is an app which allows Mothers to access records over the internet. The information that is provided, is generated in real-time from the hospital database which uses details entered by the health professionals. This new system makes women able to have a more convenient and a more timely approach to the key information which is added to the system regularly.

 

 

Who is using BadgerNet?

The NHS (National Health Service) is made up of hundreds of different organisations. It is there, to help improve people’s health and wellbeing, supporting any and every individual in their state of need. In 1948, the NHS service was set up to provide everyone in the UK with a healthcare program whether they had the ability to pay or not.  One department within the NHS, which makes what the health service is today, is the Maternity departments. This is a department which specialises in the treatment of mothers and unborn to newborn babies. BadgerNet is used in multiple maternity departments across the UK to allow for easy, real-time recording of notes and patient records . This can be used on all different pregnancies and births to always give all parents and mothers accessible assistance. There is access to individual maternity and hospital records, as well as access to support and guidance leaflets during pregnancy.

 

The below list is just some of the hospitals/NHS trusts currently using BadgerNet:

 

Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust

Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust

Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust

Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust

King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust

South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King’s Lynn, NHS Foundation Trust

The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust

Wye Valley NHS Trust

 

What are the key features of BadgerNet?

The Key features of this system, involves a detailed timeline from even the start of your pregnancy, up until your postnatal care. See the points below which are positive regarding this:

• This app helps you to learn about the progress/development within your pregnancy.
• It allows you to access any uploaded information from your midwife.
• Helps you view your upcoming appointments.
• Allows you to create a personal diary/log of your journey and add any weekly thoughts. This also means you can upload pictures.
• You can enter any information via the app if you have been asked to by a health professional, which saves time by travelling to the hospital. This information could be a pulse reading.
• It also allows you to become comfortable with the members of the people who will be classed as your care team. I.e., you can view your teams’ photos.
• You can upload your thoughts or questions onto this app.
• Once your care is complete, this is something called an “antenatal care summary” which is a record of key events which has happened within your pregnancy journey.

 

What are the Benefits of using BadgerNet?

There are multiple benefits to using Maternity notes over paper, such as:

• The data is updated at each visit which allows you to access that, straight after to recall the visit to others.
• It means not having to duplicate any information as they are all held internally.
• It allows you to feel more included due to you having all of the information at hand.
• It also provides great security due to you being the only person having the login details to access the uploaded information.

Following on from a conversation one of our account managers had with the Ward Clerk from the Delivery Suite, this is where she advised him of the above information and how this is a new process they have started to work well with.

 

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk 

 

02.11.2023

New partnership emerges with Niche Healthcare & University Limerick Hospital – Thank you for your business.

 

Who are the University Limerick Hospital Group?

University Limerick Hospitals Group is made up of 6 hospital sites in the Midwest; University Hospital Limerick, University Maternity Hospital Limerick, Ennis Hospital, Nenagh Hospital, Croom Orthopaedic Hospital and St. John’s Hospital Limerick.

Limerick is a city in Ireland, and it is served by several hospitals and healthcare facilities. One of the notable hospitals in Limerick is the University Hospital Limerick, which is the largest and busiest hospital in the Mid-West region of Ireland. Here is some background information about University Hospital Limerick:

 

Size and Services: It is a large, acute-care hospital with a wide range of medical and surgical services. The hospital provides services not only to the local population in Limerick but also to patients from the surrounding regions.

Affiliation: University Hospital Limerick is affiliated with the University of Limerick and serves as a teaching hospital for medical and nursing students.

Specialties: The hospital offers various specialties, including general medicine, surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, cardiology, orthopaedics, and many others.

History: The hospital has a history dating back several decades and has evolved over the years to meet the changing healthcare needs of the region.

Challenges: Like many healthcare facilities, University Hospital Limerick faces challenges related to patient volumes, resource allocation, and healthcare funding.

 

What do University Limerick Hospital purchase from Niche Healthcare?

One of the departments from this hospital that order our healthcare products, is the Neonatal department. One item that they order, includes our healthcare product, the Infant Heel warmers. The Heel warmers significantly improve blood circulation at the infant’s heels which makes for taking a better blood prick. When ordering, they come in a pack of 25.  

 

In Ireland, all babies are now screened for:

• Cystic fibrosis
• Congenital hypothyroidism
• Phenylketonuria
• Maple syrup urine disease
• Classical galactosaemic
• Glutaric aciduria type 1
• Medium chain acyl CoA dehydrogenase deficiency
• Adenosine deaminase deficiency severe combined immunodeficiency

 

Why should I have my baby screened?

Each year, newborn bloodspot screening identifies about 110 babies with one of these rare but serious conditions. The health of these babies can then be managed before they develop severe symptoms. Unmanaged, these conditions can cause a serious risk to health or life. Some parents worry that their baby will be uncomfortable during the heel prick. But the longterm benefit of screening is much greater than the small discomfort a baby feels when the blood sample is taken.

When is the screening done?

Newborn bloodspot screening is usually done between three and five days after your baby is born.

How to use the Infant Heel Warmer? – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BcO4sGgYCM

 

Why MAM Pacifiers?

Another product are the MAM pacifiers (we have good partnership with MAM and they provide us with multiple products so we can give the nurses a more positive outlook when working with the children and parents) which come in 3 sizes. These help with infants that are premature. Preemie 1 refers to an infant who is born around 37 to 40 weeks and may require certain specialized care as their organs may not be fully developed. Preemie 2 relates to infants that are between 900 and 1500 grams at birth weight. Preemie 3 are infants which weigh between 1400 and 6500 grams. These pacifiers are designed with a small shield which leaves space for medical devices and makes it easier for the newborn to breathe as it is lightweight. Another positive regarding this product, is they can be custom fit to accommodate the infants breathing.  

 

 

 

For more information, please click the below link :

https://www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/product/mam-preemies-mam-comfort

 

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk 

 

26.10.2023

Original ink and toner cartridges are those that are manufactured by the same company that produced your printer. For example, if you have a Canon printer, original Canon ink or toner cartridges are those produced by Canon. Compatible ink and toner cartridges, on the other hand, are produced by third-party manufacturers and are designed to work with a variety of printer brands and models.

Here are some key differences between original and compatible ink and toner cartridges:

Quality and Consistency: Original cartridges are designed to meet the specifications of your specific printer model. They are usually of high quality and are manufactured to deliver consistent results in terms of print quality and page yield. Compatible cartridges may vary in quality, as they are produced by different manufacturers, and the quality can vary between brands and even individual cartridges.

Warranty: Using original cartridges typically maintains your printer’s warranty, as printer manufacturers may void the warranty if you use compatible or third-party cartridges. This can be an important consideration if your printer is still under warranty.

Price: Compatible cartridges are often cheaper than original cartridges. This cost savings can be significant, especially for high-volume printing.

Compatibility: Original cartridges are guaranteed to be compatible with your specific printer model. Compatible cartridges are designed to be compatible with a range of printers, so you need to ensure they are compatible with your printer before purchasing.

Print Quality: While original cartridges are designed to provide consistent, high-quality prints, the quality of prints with compatible cartridges can vary. Some compatible cartridges may provide prints of similar quality, while others may have issues like color accuracy, streaking, or fading.

Page Yield: Original cartridges often provide a specified page yield, and you can reasonably expect to get close to that number of pages. The page yield of compatible cartridges may vary, and it’s not always easy to predict how many pages you’ll get from them.

Environmental Considerations: Some people opt for compatible cartridges because they perceive them as more environmentally friendly, as they may be made using recycled materials. However, the environmental impact can vary depending on the specific manufacturer and their practices.

In summary, the choice between original and compatible ink and toner cartridges depends on your priorities. If print quality, warranty, and consistency are crucial to you, original cartridges may be the better choice. If cost savings are a priority and you’re willing to potentially sacrifice some print quality or warranty coverage, compatible cartridges can be a more budget-friendly option. It’s essential to research and consider the specific brand and model of both your printer and the cartridges to make an informed decision.

 

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk 

 

19.10.2023

Niche Healthcare Launched the VGLO Vein Finder in 2022

In 2022, Niche healthcare launched the VGLO Vein Finder for Paediatrics. Since then, over 15+ hospitals across the UK have trialled the Vein finder. With all 15, sharing extremely positive feedback. As a result, we are proud to have sold to over 10 individual Vein finders. With the latest order, going to NHS Highland Paediatric ward. Account manager, Rohan, worked with the housekeeper throughout the trial of the Vein finder and has recently been able to approve the purchase of the Vein finder.

 

What Is A Vein Finder?

A vein finder, also known as a vein locator or vein viewer, is a medical device used to help healthcare professionals locate veins in a patient’s body for various medical procedures, including venipuncture (inserting a needle into a vein for blood collection or intravenous medication administration). The primary purpose of a vein finder is to make the process of finding and accessing veins easier and more efficient, especially in patients with difficult-to-find veins.

Here are some common features of vein finders:

Infrared Imaging: Most vein finders use near-infrared (NIR) technology to detect veins. Infrared light is absorbed by deoxygenated haemoglobin in veins, making them stand out from the surrounding tissue. The device captures and displays these infrared images, highlighting the location of veins.

Real-Time Imaging: Vein finders provide real-time, dynamic images of veins on the patient’s skin. This allows healthcare professionals to see the veins as they move the device, making it easier to choose the optimal insertion site.

Portability: Vein finders are typically designed to be lightweight and portable, allowing healthcare professionals to use them in various clinical settings, including hospitals, clinics, and emergency rooms.

Vein Projection: Some vein finders project a visible light or laser grid onto the patient’s skin, outlining the location of veins. This can help guide the healthcare provider to the exact insertion point.

Rechargeable Batteries: Most vein finders are powered by rechargeable batteries, ensuring they are ready for use without the need for constant battery replacements.

User-Friendly Interface: Vein finders typically have an intuitive user interface with a touchscreen or buttons for adjusting settings and capturing images.

Infection Control: Many vein finders are designed with infection control in mind, featuring smooth, easily cleanable surfaces to prevent the spread of pathogens between patients.

Overall, vein finders are valuable tools for healthcare professionals, helping to reduce patient discomfort, minimize the risk of complications, and improve the efficiency of medical procedures that require access to veins.

 

 

 

 

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk 

 

12.10.2023

Niche and Ergotron Partnership

What is Ergonomics:

Ergonomics, also known as human-centred design, is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the study of how humans interact with their environment, tools, equipment, and systems. The primary goal of ergonomics is to design and arrange these elements in a way that maximizes efficiency, comfort, safety, and overall well-being for individuals.

Ergonomics is applied in various fields including healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, office design, consumer product design, and more. Its principles are essential for reducing workplace injuries, enhancing user satisfaction, and improving overall system performance.

Niche and Ergotron Partnership:

 In July, two of our team had the pleasure of meeting with two lovely ladies from Ergotron to discuss all things ergonomics. They discussed the different ergonomics within the healthcare sector and how we can work together to provide a safer work environment for healthcare professionals. We are pleased to have partnered with Ergotron to offer our customers different ergonomic products to help them in their own work environment. To find out what products we have on offer, please contact one of the team today!

 

Ergonomics in Healthcare:

Ergonomics in healthcare refers to the design and organization of healthcare environments, equipment, and tasks to optimize the well-being, safety, and efficiency of both healthcare providers and patients. It is a multidisciplinary field that draws from principles of human factors engineering, biomechanics, and psychology to improve the quality of care and reduce the risk of injuries or discomfort in healthcare settings.

1. Workstation Design: Ergonomics is essential in designing workstations for healthcare providers, including nurses, doctors, and midwifes. Properly designed workstations reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and fatigue by ensuring that equipment and tools are within easy reach, have adjustable heights, and are designed with the user’s comfort in mind.
2. Patient Handling: Healthcare workers often need to lift, transfer, and reposition patients, which can lead to injuries if not done correctly. Ergonomics principles are applied to the design of patient lifting and transfer equipment, as well as training programs, to reduce the risk of injury to both healthcare providers and patients.
3. Medical Device Design: The design of medical devices, such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, and surgical instruments, should take into consideration the comfort and safety of both patients and healthcare providers. Proper ergonomics can improve the usability of these devices, reduce the risk of errors, and enhance patient care.
4. Environmental Design: The layout and design of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, can impact the efficiency of care delivery and patient comfort. Ergonomic principles guide the arrangement of equipment, furniture, and patient rooms to optimize workflow and reduce the risk of accidents.

 

5. Computer Workstations: Healthcare professionals spend a significant amount of time using computers for documentation, communication, and accessing electronic health records. Ergonomics principles are applied to design computer workstations to prevent issues like repetitive strain injuries and eye strain.
6. Training and Education: Healthcare workers are often trained in ergonomic techniques to ensure safe patient handling and to prevent injuries. Training programs may include proper lifting techniques, patient transfer methods, and strategies for maintaining good posture.
7. Research and Assessment: Ergonomics experts in healthcare may conduct research and assessments to identify ergonomic risks in healthcare settings. This can involve studying injury trends, conducting ergonomic evaluations, and recommending improvements in equipment and workflows.
8. Regulatory Compliance: Healthcare organizations and facilities are often subject to regulations and standards related to ergonomics and worker safety. Compliance with these regulations is essential to protect healthcare workers and patients.

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk

02.10.2023

Introducing Owl Labs Conferencing Systems

Owl Labs is a company that specializes in creating video conferencing and collaboration technology, with a particular focus on improving remote and hybrid work experiences. One of the company’s most well-known products is the “Owl Labs Meeting Owl,” which is a 360-degree smart video conferencing camera and microphone system designed to enhance remote meetings and communication.

The Meeting Owl uses AI technology to automatically focus its camera on the current speaker and display a panoramic view of the entire room. This allows remote participants to see and interact with everyone in the meeting, creating a more inclusive and immersive experience.

Owl Labs aims to provide solutions that make it easier for teams and individuals to connect and collaborate, especially in today’s increasingly remote and distributed work environments. Their products are used by businesses, educational institutions, and organizations of all sizes to facilitate virtual meetings and improve communication among remote and in-office team members.

 

The Owl Labs Meeting Owl and other Owl Labs conferencing systems offer several benefits for remote and hybrid work environments:

360-Degree Video and Audio: The Meeting Owl provides a 360-degree view of the meeting room, allowing remote participants to see everyone in the room without needing to pan or adjust the camera manually. This immersive view enhances the feeling of being present in the room.

Automatic Speaker Focus: The AI technology in the Owl Labs system automatically focuses the camera on the current speaker, ensuring that the remote audience can see and hear the person speaking clearly. This feature makes it easier to follow discussions and presentations.

Inclusivity: The panoramic view of the entire room makes it easier for remote team members to participate actively and feel included in meetings. This is especially important in hybrid work environments where some team members are physically present while others join remotely.

Ease of Use: Owl Labs systems are designed to be user-friendly and require minimal setup. This simplicity encourages more frequent use of video conferencing technology for effective communication.

Reduced Fatigue: Traditional video conferencing systems may require constant camera adjustments and can be tiring for remote participants. The automatic camera focus and panoramic view provided by Owl Labs systems reduce the need for manual adjustments, improving the overall experience and reducing video call fatigue.

Versatility: Owl Labs conferencing systems are suitable for a variety of meeting spaces, from small huddle rooms to larger conference rooms. This versatility makes it easier for organizations to adopt the technology across different settings.

Integration: Many Owl Labs products are compatible with popular video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, making it seamless to integrate into existing workflows.

Cost-Effective: While conferencing technology can be an investment, Owl Labs aims to provide cost-effective solutions that improve collaboration and communication in a remote or hybrid work environment.

Analytics and Insights: Some Owl Labs systems offer analytics and insights that can help organizations track meeting room usage, identify trends, and optimize their meeting spaces.

Overall, Owl Labs conferencing systems are designed to enhance remote and hybrid work by improving the quality and inclusivity of virtual meetings, making it easier for teams to collaborate effectively, and reducing the challenges associated with remote communication.

 

Owl Labs offers several accessories and add-ons that can enhance the functionality and usability of their conferencing systems, particularly the Meeting Owl. Some of the accessories and options you can consider include:

Meeting Owl Pro: The Meeting Owl Pro is the upgraded version of the Meeting Owl and offers improved audio and video quality. If you already have the standard Meeting Owl, you can consider upgrading to the Pro version.

Extension Cables: Owl Labs offers extension cables for their devices, allowing you to position the Owl camera and microphone further away from the main unit or your computer.

Ceiling Mount Kit: If you want to mount the Meeting Owl on the ceiling for a more permanent setup, Owl Labs offers a ceiling mount kit that includes the necessary hardware.

Tripod Stand: Owl Labs provides a tripod stand that allows you to place the Meeting Owl on a table top or other surfaces. This can be useful for flexible meeting setups.

Replacement Parts: You can purchase replacement parts and accessories separately, such as power adapters, USB cables, and camera covers, in case you need to replace any component of your Owl Labs device.

Additional Cables: Depending on your specific setup, you may need additional USB cables or adapters to connect the Owl Labs device to your computer or other equipment.

Custom Branded Covers: Owl Labs offers the option to customize the appearance of your Meeting Owl with branded covers. This can be useful for companies looking to add their logo or design to the device.

Owl Care: Owl Care is a service plan offered by Owl Labs that provides extended warranties, advanced replacement, and priority customer support for your Meeting Owl.

Software and Firmware Updates: Regularly check for software and firmware updates provided by Owl Labs to ensure that your device is running the latest features and improvements.

When considering accessories for your Owl Labs conferencing system, it’s essential to verify compatibility with your specific Owl Labs product and model, as the available accessories may vary. Additionally, make sure to visit the Owl Labs official website or contact their customer support for the most up-to-date information on accessories and compatibility.

Niche Office Solutions are an authorised owl labs reseller.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

28.09.2023

 

Why is skin to skin  important?

Skin-to-skin contact can also take place any time a baby needs comforting or calming and can help boost a mother’s milk supply. Skin-to-skin contact is vital in neonatal units where it is often known as ‘kangaroo care’.

 

Benefits include:

• calms and relaxes both mother and baby
• regulates the baby’s heart rate and breathing, helping them to better adapt to life outside the womb
• stimulates digestion and an interest in feeding
• regulates temperature
• enables colonisation of the baby’s skin with the mother’s friendly bacteria, thus providing protection against infection
• stimulates the release of hormones to support breastfeeding and mothering.
• Skin-to-skin contact also provides benefits for babies in the neonatal unit, in that it:
• improves oxygen saturation
• reduces cortisol (stress) levels, particularly following painful procedures
• encourages pre-feeding behaviour
• assists with growth
• may reduce hospital stay
• improves milk volume if the mother expresses following a period of skin-to-skin contact, with the expressed milk containing the most up-to-date antibodies.

 

What happens during skin-to-skin contact?

When a mother holds her baby in skin-to-skin contact after birth, it initiates strong instinctive behaviours in both. The mother will experience a surge of maternal hormones and begin to smell, stroke and engage with her baby. Babies’ instincts after birth will drive them to follow a unique process, which if left uninterrupted will result in them having a first breastfeed. If they are enabled to familiarise themselves with their mother’s breast and achieve self-attachment, it is very likely that they will recall this at subsequent feeds, resulting in fewer breastfeeding problems.

 

After birth, babies who are placed skin-to-skin on their mother’s chest will:

• briefly cry a very distinctive birth cry
• enter a stage of relaxation where they display very little movement as they recover from the birth
• start to wake up, opening their eyes and showing some response to their mother’s voice
• begin to make small movements of the arms, shoulders and head; as these movements increase, the baby will draw up their knees and appear to move or crawl towards the breast
• often rest once they have found the breast (this can often be mistaken as the baby not being hungry or not wanting to feed)
• begin to familiarise with the breast after a period of rest, perhaps by nuzzling, smelling and licking around the area (this familiarisation period can last for some time and is important, so should not be rushed; try to remain patient and allow the baby to work out how to best attach themselves)
• self-attach and begin to feed (it may be that mother and baby need a little help with positioning at this stage)
• come off the breast once they have had a chance to suckle for a period of time. Following this, often both mother and baby will fall asleep.

Most term healthy babies will follow this process, providing it is not interrupted by anything, for example taking the baby away to weigh or the mother going for a shower. Interrupting the process before the baby has completed this sequence or trying to hurry them through the stages may lead to problems at subsequent breastfeeds. If the mother has been given a lot of analgesia during labour, the baby may be drowsy and this process can take longer.

 

 

Skin-to-skin contact in the Baby Friendly standards

The Baby Friendly standards require that skin-to-skin contact is valued and supported in hospitals.

 

Maternity units are required to ensure that:

• all mothers have skin-to-skin contact with their baby after birth, at least until after the first feed and for as long as they wish
• all mothers are encouraged to offer the first feed in skin contact when the baby shows signs of readiness to feed
• mothers and babies who are unable to have skin contact immediately after birth are encouraged to commence skin contact as soon as they are able, whenever or wherever that may be.

 

Neonatal units are required to ensure that:

• parents have a conversation with an appropriate member of staff as soon as possible about the importance of touch, comfort and communication for their baby’s health and development
• parents are actively encouraged to provide comfort and emotional support for their baby, including prolonged skin contact, comforting touch and responsiveness to their baby’s behavioural cues
• mothers receive care that supports the transition to breastfeeding, including the use of skin-to-skin contact to encourage instinctive feeding behaviour.

 

Should Dads Have Skin-to-Skin Contact With Their Newborns?

Yes! Dads also experience a rush of hormones and joy. The benefits of skin-to-skin contact for dads include bonding with their baby, feeling more confident as a father, and feeling a surge of protectiveness toward their baby.

Dads can also pass on the same benefits as moms do in terms of helping to regulate their baby’s temperature and heartbeat. Plus, while Dad is spending some one-on-one bonding time with the baby, Mom will be able to get a little rest, too. Later on, dads can also do skin-to-skin contact while bottle-feeding.

In addition to skin-to-skin contact, there are other good ways for dads to bond with their babies such as talking and playing together and interacting during diaper changes.

 

 

15.09.2023

What range of training is required for Midwives?

Student midwives require a range of training and support to successfully complete their education and become qualified professionals. Here are some of the key elements they typically require:

 

• Educational Programs: Access to well-structured and comprehensive educational programs that cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, childbirth, prenatal care, postpartum care, and neonatal care.
• Clinical Training: Practical experience through supervised clinical placements in maternity units, hospitals, and community settings to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life situations.
• Supervision and Mentoring: Experienced midwives who provide guidance, mentorship, and supervision during clinical placements, helping students develop their skills and gain confidence.
• Access to Resources: Access to up-to-date textbooks, research articles, online resources, and educational materials related to midwifery practice.
• Simulation Training: Simulation labs and scenarios that allow students to practice skills in a controlled environment before working with real patients.
• Interprofessional Learning: Opportunities to collaborate and learn alongside other healthcare professionals, such as obstetricians, nurses, and paediatricians, to understand the broader aspects of maternity care.              
• Ethical and Legal Education: Understanding of ethical considerations, legal regulations, and guidelines relevant to midwifery practice.
• Cultural Competence: Training on cultural sensitivity and competence to provide respectful and patient-centered care to diverse populations.
• Communication Skills: Training in effective communication and counselling skills to interact with expectant mothers, families, and the broader healthcare team.
• Continuing Professional Development: Support for ongoing learning and skill enhancement even after graduation to stay updated with the latest developments in midwifery practice.
• Wellness and Mental Health Support: Access to resources that promote student well-being, mental health, and work-life balance during what can be a demanding training period.
• Assessment and Feedback: Regular assessments and constructive feedback on performance to help students identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Regulatory Compliance: Understanding of licensing, registration, and certification requirements to practice as a midwife after graduation.

The specific requirements and support structures can vary based on the educational institution, country, and program. Student midwives often benefit from a comprehensive approach that integrates theoretical knowledge, practical experience, mentorship, and ongoing learning opportunities.

 

How we say thank you for great services within midwifery?

Yes, midwives have been recognized and honoured for their contributions and dedication to maternal and infant health. While there might not be a specific “Medal of Honor” like the one given for military service, there have been various awards, honour’s, and recognitions bestowed upon midwives for their outstanding work. Here are a few examples:

1. International Day of the Midwife Awards: Organizations such as the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) recognize exceptional midwives on the International Day of the Midwife. Awards are given to midwives who have made significant contributions to maternal and child health.
2. National and Regional Awards: Many countries have established awards to honour outstanding midwives who have demonstrated exceptional skills, commitment, and contributions to their communities.
3. Local Recognitions: Midwives may receive recognition and appreciation from their local communities, hospitals, and organizations for their dedicated service.
4. Royal College of Midwives Awards (UK): The Royal College of Midwives in the UK has a history of honouring midwives for their outstanding contributions through various awards and accolades.
5. Academic and Professional Recognitions: Midwives who contribute to the advancement of midwifery education, research, and practice may receive recognition from academic institutions or professional organizations.
6. Humanitarian Awards: Midwives who provide care in challenging or underserved areas, often risking their own safety, may receive humanitarian awards from organizations that recognize their selfless service.

These examples highlight the esteem and appreciation that midwives receive for their crucial role in maternal and child healthcare. While there might not be a universally recognized “Medal of Honor” specifically for midwives, various forms of recognition celebrate their invaluable contributions to society.

 

How does Niche Healthcare Support Student Midwives?

This year, we attended two maternity and midwifery festivals: one in Ireland and one in London. In attendance at these festivals we were able to connect with hundreds of medical professionals, including lots of student midwives, and discuss how our product ranges may help them improve their processes within their profession. We also got to meet different companies who may also be working within the healthcare sector and learn about their products and what they have to offer. This has allowed us to build relationships with other brands. 

 

Nursing Knowledge Cards

 

01.09.2023

Niche Healthcare partnership continues to grow in Ireland – Welcome on-board Ulster Hospital

Today, was another great day to enhance our growing work, development to push our healthcare innovation range products to our Irish hospitals. We obtained today, our first order going to the Neonatal department (Ulster Hospital – Belfast)  , we have been working closely with the Ward Manager to get our new range of products to this hospital, which was founded in 1872.

Well done to our team , who have opened 10 new hospitals within a 9-month period, your hard work supporting baby infants does not go unrecognised.

The Ulster Hospital is the major acute hospital for the Trust and delivers the full range of acute services for the population. This includes a type 1 Emergency Department which is open 24/7, a comprehensive range of diagnostic services, the full range of outpatient, inpatient and day case medical and surgical services, cancer care, coronary care, obstetrics and paediatric services.

The Ulster has 90,000 Emergency Department attendances and over 4,000 births each year.

In addition, we would like to thank our marketing team, Diamond Anderson, Steven Cheeseman who have launched our new branding logo for Neonatal, NICU, PICU, SCBU called NeoLuv.

 

Most of our healthcare innovation product range will have this new branding which expresses the company’s desire to bring new healthcare products to help give our new starting generations the best start ever.

 

Mother & baby Bond

The mother and baby bond, also known as maternal-infant bonding, refers to the emotional connection and attachment that develops between a mother and her newborn baby. This bond is characterized by feelings of love, protection, and a strong desire to nurture and care for the infant. It is a critical aspect of a baby’s early development and lays the foundation for their emotional and social well-being.

 

Maternal-infant bonding can be influenced by various factors, including skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, responsive caregiving, and physical closeness. These interactions release hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, which promote feelings of attachment and strengthen the bond between mother and baby. Positive maternal-infant bonding has numerous benefits for both the baby and the mother. For the baby, it fosters a sense of security, emotional regulation, and social development. For the mother, bonding contributes to feelings of fulfilment, confidence in her caregiving abilities, and a sense of purpose.

 

It’s important to note that while the mother-baby bond typically develops naturally, it might take time for some mothers to feel fully connected to their infants. Factors such as postpartum depression, medical complications, or challenging circumstances can influence this process. In such cases, seeking support from healthcare professionals, counsellors, or support groups can be beneficial.

 

Overall, the mother and baby bond is a crucial aspect of early childhood development and plays a significant role in shaping a baby’s emotional well-being and future relationships.

 

For more information, please find our innovation range supporting this bond.

MAM pacifiers

Nipple Shields

Breastmilk Expressers

Breast Gel Pads

 

Please watch shortly for our new launch of products coming soon: sterilising bags for pacifiers, teats, bottles, and our new breast milk storage bags, aimed for our NHS customers. 

For more information – call our healthcare specialist on – 01274 965089.

 

03.08.2023

Niche Infant Transwarmer Mattress

Our gel-based Niche Infant Warmer Mattress helps bring warmth and comfort to infants during transport in or between hospitals. Upon activation, it reaches the target temperature in 90 seconds and stays warm for up to 2 hours, ensuring ultimate comfort and safety for the baby. Made with our patented Insta-Gel, the mattress is designed to efficiently reduce the risk of hypothermia for infants, especially when they need the protection the most.

Very Proud

Niche Healthcare, a division of Niche Office Solutions Ltd would like to thank its team for the hard work for our clinical trials, which involve our intrinsic development conducted by our research , export team to bring the best healthcare products to our valued customers. Providing 90% of the NHS with products shows the positivity of our cutting-edge healthcare products which offer great results for the patients and ultimately giving improved healthcare to our customers.

Well done , e-commerce team for brining new customers to our direction.

 

Thank you

We would like to take this opportunity to thank RAF Lakenheath for their order and we look forward to developing our relationship together.

 

About The Military Health System

The Military Health System (MHS) is one of America’s largest and most complex health care institutions, and the world’s preeminent military health care delivery operation. Our MHS saves lives on the battlefield, combats infectious disease around the world, and is responsible for providing health services through both Direct Care

Direct care refers to military hospitals and clinics, also known as “military treatment facilities” and “MTFs.” direct care and Private Sector Care to approximately 9.6 million beneficiaries, composed of uniformed service members, military retirees, and family members.

The USA military organisation offers the below services for their officers , family members, children who operate all over the world, including:

• Health care delivery
• Medical education
• Public health
• Private sector partnerships
• Cutting edge medical research and development

 

27.07.2023

June 2023 Recent Customer Visits :

Our Account Manager ‘Rohan Thaper’ visited North Tees University Hospital, Sunderland Royal, and James Cook Hospital in June 2023.

 

The purpose of the visits was to push our healthcare Innovation range, Infant Heel warmers, Infant Heel Lancets, Infant Mattresses, & Gel Brest Pads. All these products offer intrinsic, modernity purposes for baby infants.

 

Customer visits can achieve several important objectives for businesses. Some of the key benefits of customer visits include:

1. Understanding customer needs: Visiting customers in their environment allows businesses to gain a deeper understanding of their needs, preferences, and pain points. This firsthand experience helps companies tailor their products and services to better meet customer expectations.
2. Building relationships: Face-to-face interactions with customers help build personal relationships and trust. Strong relationships can lead to increased loyalty, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
3. Gathering feedback: Customer visits provide an opportunity to collect direct feedback on products, services, and overall customer experiences. This feedback is valuable for identifying areas of improvement and innovation.
4. Identifying opportunities and challenges: By observing how customers use products and interact with services, businesses can identify new opportunities for growth and innovation. Additionally, customer visits may reveal challenges that need to be addressed to enhance customer satisfaction.
5. Validating assumptions: Sometimes, businesses make assumptions about their customers’ preferences or behaviours. Customer visits allow them to validate or refute these assumptions based on real-world observations.
6. Competitor analysis: While visiting customers, businesses can also gather insights about their competitors and compare their offerings, pricing, and service quality.
7. Enhancing customer service: Learning about customers’ pain points and preferences helps businesses improve their customer service strategies and deliver a more personalized experience.
8. Influencing decision-makers: In B2B (business-to-business) settings, customer visits can help influence decision-makers by showcasing the company’s commitment to understanding and serving their clients.
9. Enhancing brand perception: Engaging in customer visits demonstrates a commitment to customer-centricity and can positively impact a company’s brand perception and reputation.

 

Overall, customer visits play a crucial role in enhancing customer-centricity, fostering innovation, and building strong, long-lasting relationships with customers, which can ultimately lead to business growth and success.

 

Well done to Rohan for positive conversion with these customers/budget holders, and equally thank you for the support from our marketing division specialists – Diamond Anderson & Steven Cheeseman.

 

 

For more information, contact us 01274 965089 or check out our website at www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk / www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/niche-nhs

Further clinical information can be found on our blog page: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/category/niche-healthcare-news

For products not found on our online website, please view our Healthcare catalogues: www.nicheofficesolutions.co.uk/healthcare-catalogues

View our Healthcare YouTube videos Playlist

If you have any additional questions, drop us an email at info@nicheofficesolutions.co.uk