The New NUH Medical Centre
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ISSUE 2 / 2014 A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
A New Lease
Of Life
Meet our organ
transplant patients
and donors
Wash Up
Why keeping your
hands germ-free can
save your life
The New
NUH Medical
Centre
Accessible, convenient,
one-stop integrated care
My Life 3
In this issue...
08 03 My Life “He’s As Playful And
Active As Ever!”
Little Matthew Ng doesn’t let his
special eye hold him back
04 Wellbeing
Hand hygiene and your health Living with a special eye has not stopped Matthew Ng from playing like
any other kid with normal vision
05 On The Pulse
H
- Cleaner, faster new
disposable system
- Empowering patients
“ e loves to mimic how the red
and yellow Angry Birds talk!”
discovered a glass-like film in his right
pupil. A visit to the eye specialist followed
through transitional care beams Geraldine Ng, referring by tests confirmed he had bilateral follow ups. For Matthew, early detection
to the popular children’s game as she retinoblastoma (retinoblastoma in both was key – survival rates are almost 95 per
08 Cover Story
The new NUH Medical Centre opens
glances at her youngest child, Matthew.
You’d be hard pressed to tell that the boy
eyes). Today, Matthew’s condition is
stable, his chemotheraphy treatments
cent and above in cases of early, effective
treatment. If an eye has to be removed,
had lost his right eye to retinoblastoma, at the National University Hospital’s the child can lead a normal life, provided
12 Wellbeing
Don’t let the haze get you down
the most common genetically-inherited
eye cancer in children. The three-year-old
(NUH) Viva-University Children’s Cancer
Centre have stopped, and once every six
the other eye is protected and regularly
monitored, especially for the first five
is cheekiness personified, endearingly months, he visits an opthalmologist for to 10 years of life. Signs to be alert to:
14
14
Inspire calls his prosthetic eye his “special eye”, abnormal appearance of the pupil.
- Allied Health Professionals lend and thinks everyone has one. Families with a history of the disease
valuable support “He’s very independent, I can leave should have their kids screened while
- Raising awareness of colorectal
him to play alone without worrying he “in utero” by ultrasound, right after birth,
18
cancer at the workplace
would knock into things,”says Geraldine, and closely monitored until age five,
17 Wellbeing
a teacher, with a touch of pride. When advises Dr Gangadhara Sundar, Head &
Matthew was five months old, she Senior Consultant, Oculoplastic Services,
Easy health tips for everyday living
Eye Surgery Centre, NUH. These days,
nothing holds Matthew back. “He likes
1 1 18 Feature
NON- FULL VECTOR
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Organ 3transplant patients
3
playing with his toy cars and trains,
and he’s as naughty as ever!”
Stay connected ... and donors share their
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heartwarming quips Geraldine.
Staystories
connected ...
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20 10 Minutes With...
Respiratory
NON- FULL VECTORtherapist
NON- FULL VECTOR
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1
Srinivas3 Peddireddy
3
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fb.com/nationaluniversityhospital Hospital. MICA(P) NO. 091/09/2012
National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road,
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4 Wellbeing On The Pulse 5
Six Steps To
Proper Hand
Cleaning
Clean And Clear 1 Rub palms together
Waste Away
Keeping your hands clean is important in more ways The National University Hospital’s (NUH) new hospital-wide disposable system delivers a more
than one. It can save your life hygienic environment for patients, while freeing up nurses to focus on patient care
Y W
ou’ve seen posters like “Save carrier patient to an uninfected hen 72-year-old retiree John
Lives with Clean Hands” when person. Environment is also key Chee suffered dizzy spells and
you walk into a hospital. While
it’s a simple reminder about maintaining
because patients come into contact with
all kinds of surfaces that may harbour
2 Rub palms
together, with
was admitted to the NUH in
January, at one point he was asked to use
basic hygiene, it carries a serious disease-causing bacteria like MRSA, fingers interlaced a portable urinal. However, instead of the
message. According to the World VRE, as well as viruses like the Norovirus usual reusable version, he was offered
Health Organisation (WHO), every year, and Rotavirus. This is where proper disposable ones.
3
hundreds of millions of patients around hand hygiene plays a critical role: John was pleasantly surprised – and
the world are affected by healthcare- it’s been proven to prevent the Rub right palm appreciative. “I am all for it because it
associated infections. spread of influenza viruses and over left hand with is more hygienic and convenient,” he
fingers interlaced
Hands are the “vehicles” by which keep bugs at bay. and vice versa said. John’s positive feedback echoes
bugs transmit from an infected or those of patients who have tried out
SILENT INVADERS the hospital’s new system of one-use
Topping the list of common and bedpans, urinals, and vomit bowls. After
ABOUT WORLD HAND potentially dangerous germs is MRSA use, these items, made of recycled
HYGIENE DAY
The World Health Organisation has
– Methicilline-resistant Staphylococcus
Aureus – which is responsible for most
4 Interlock
fingers and
paper pulp, are cleared promptly by
nurses. A machine called a macerator
infections in hospitals. Up to 20 per cent rub the back uses cold water to shred the receptacles
declared May 5 World Hand Hygiene
of fingers
Day. Started in 2009, the annual or one in five inpatients are infected and flush away any residue.
event aims to encourage patients by MRSA. About one in 10 patients
and their family members to join admitted to hospital are MRSA carriers. BETTER, FASTER, CLEANER
healthcare workers in practising good
hand hygiene, and raise awareness
It can give rise to boils, abscesses,
septic wounds, fever, and in extreme
5 Rotational
rubbing of right
In March 2014, the NUH became the
first local hospital to fully implement
in reducing infections and improving cases, lead to death. Those with the disposable system. The hospital cleaned between usage, nurses have
patient safety in hospitals.
thumb clasped
in left palm and
I am all for
weakened immunity or open wounds had earlier piloted it, and found that it reported that they were often stained
vice versa the single-use
are susceptible, as MRSA enters the benefitted both patients and staff. or not properly cleaned by the sanitiser.
containers, as it’s more
body through cuts, surgical wounds, For nurses, they no longer have to Staff would end up having to manually
If You’re A Visitor hygienic and convenient.
drip sites or implants. The bacteria spend up to four hours a day clearing rewash the receptacles or use the bedpan
Before and after your visit, and
immediately before and after contact
with a patient, follow the six-step
can live on the surface of people’s skin
and inside their noses. This is called
6 Rotational
rubbing of
patients’ waste and cleaning the
receptacles. In the past, nurses must first
sanitiser again.
With the new system, odour is reduced
– JOHN CHEE, PATIENT
procedure for hand washing. If “colonisation”, which is generally fingertips of right empty any contents into an open sluice as no emptying is required, and cold global concern over hospital-acquired
there’s no soap and water, use an hand on left palm
alcohol-based hand rub or sanitiser, harmless if you’re healthy, but when located inside the dirty utility room. They instead of hot water is used. The process infections. In particular, the bacterium
and vice versa
which is more effective than carriers come into contact with at-risk then use a sanitiser to clean the items with is also more eco-friendly, using 90 per cent Clostridium Difficile, spread via faecal
hand washing.
patients, MRSA infections can occur. hot water. less energy and 50 per cent less water. matter, which could lead to severe
If You’re A Patient A highly resistant bacteria found in The sanitiser takes 15 minutes to Best of all, patients feel more infection and related complications.
hospitals is VRE, which thrives in our pain. Similar symptoms affect children, clean each batch of up to four items. The assured of improved sanitary conditions
Ask staff if they have washed their
hands before they examine you or intestines but can become difficult to who transmit Rotavirus. new system now halves that time. Senior with the new single-use containers, “We don’t want our patients to catch
remind them to do so. treat or life-threatening when they Since transmissions largely take staff nurse Moe Oo Khin said, “As nurses, which can help to minimise the risk of these bugs,” said Lee Siu Yin, the
Advise visitors against touching infect the urinary tract, surgical wounds place through contact, taking some we want to spend more time with the cross contamination. NUH’s Director of Nursing, adding that
bandages, dressings and drips.
or bloodstream. Another common simple but vital measures goes a long patients, not on cleaning.” the disposable system means a safer
Remind them to wash their hands
after their visits. virus is Norovirus, which triggers way to stop the spread of infections in Another benefit is improved hygiene. KEEPING PATIENTS SAFE environment for patients, particularly
diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal hospitals and within the community. Although reusable receptacles were The new system addresses the growing the elderly or seriously ill.
6 On The Pulse
Enabling Lives
At-risk patients are able to lead independent lives and manage their health, thanks to support from
Madam Radiah, in particular, prefers provides drug consultation services. Besides offering
the National University Hospital’s (NUH) Aged Care Transition (ACTION) team
to live in her own home. When Saaban Ms Wong Zhi Xin, one of the patients the option
suggested putting her in nursing care, it pharmacists with POP, visits patients’ of taking charge of their
caused a rift between the couple. “She homes together with the Care health, the ACTION
said, ‘When I was younger, you want me Coordinator to check if they are adhering team’s initiatives in
around, now that I am old, you don’t to the prescribed drug regimen. facilitating efficient care
want me anymore’,” he recalled. “If they are not doing it right, we will planning also allows the
explain the instructions and re-counsel
NUH to better utilise
EMPOWERING PATIENTS them on how to take the medication
resources in response to
Providing “at risk” patients like Madam correctly. We also stress the importance
increasing demand for
Radiah and Saaban simple, yet critical, of compliance,” she said.
healthcare services.
assistance to help them reintegrate into Besides offering patients the option
the community is the cornerstone of the of taking charge of their health, the
NUH ACTION team, which was set ACTION team’s initiatives in facilitating
up in 2008. efficient care planning also allows
The team has played a vital role in the NUH to better utilise resources in
Facing page: Care Coordinator Ho Ee Kian pays
the hospital’s effort to assist patients response to increasing demand for Madam Radiah and Saaban a home visit. This page:
Pharmacist Wong Zhi Xin’s job is to ensure patients
who are typically at risk of prolonged healthcare services. adhere to their medication regimen
stay, re-admission or
have difficulties being
discharged. There
are currently 20 Care
Coordinators in the team.
Five years on, the
unit has helped more
than 10,000 patients, and
conducted more than
5,000 home visits. Though
a certified nurse, Ms Ho
does not perform nursing
procedures. Her role as
Care Coordinator involves
holistic assesment of the
M
adam Radiah Bte Ahmad lives When Saaban became reliant on their doorstep,“ says Ho Ee Kian, the patient as well as the
in a three-room flat in West his walking stick and wheelchair to NUH Care Coordinator who took up the home environment.
Coast, with her husband of move around, tending to his wife and couple’s case. Ms Ho is also applying to Her main responsibility
43 years, Saaban B. Adon. The couple, getting daily meals also became a huge the Senior Mobility Fund so the couple remains enabling
both in their 70s, seem like regular challenge. Given their condition, the can afford to buy an air mattress at a caregivers to meet the
retirees going about their daily lives. couple’s independent living arrangement subsidised rate. Since Madam Radiah is patient’s needs during the
Except that Madam Radiah is a double is quite remarkable. One that would confined to her bed most of the time, the transitional period, from
amputee and on dialysis, three times not have been possible, if not for the air mattress would be a better alternative acute care to moving back
a week. She lost both legs and is assistance of the NUH’s ACTION team. in terms of protecting her skin from to the community.
bedridden, after a stroke in 2008 left “Now they get to order the food bed sores, and thereby eliminating the Complementing the
her paralysed on the left side. A year of their choice as we found a kind stall chances of her being re-admitted. ACTION team’s efforts is
ago, her husband Saaban also had his owner, who is only a phone call away, The couple is happy with the option the Pharmacy Outreach
left leg amputated. and is willing to deliver their meals to of being able to live independently. Programme (POP), which
8 Cover Story
Integrated
Care Under We used to have
to travel from one
One Roof building to the next to get
to different doctors. Now as
most of the specialists are
Bright airy spaces, clinics in one housed in one building, it’s
location, easy accessibility and nearby easy for us.
amenities, make a visit to the doctor – CHAN NAI ENG, SON OF
MADAM POH LIAN HUEH
at the new NUH Medical Centre
(NUHMC) a pleasant experience
I
t’s not often that patients and their family Main Building, while a public-access link The centre also has 10
members get excited about a new medical bridge on Level Four leads to the Kent day surgery operating
centre. But 83-year-old Poh Lian Hueh can’t sing Ridge Wing. Both buildings house wards theatres, a 41-bed
enough praises for the NUHMC. “The government and other facilities. day surgery ward,
and NUH built this centre to take care of ordinary This seamless connectivity is a outpatient parenteral
and elderly folks like me. The doctors and nurses boon for technician Arfa bin Ismail, who antibiotic therapy
are very good, they show genuine concern and comes to the centre twice a month to clinic and a dengue
take extra care. I am very happy!” see different specialists, including an outpatient clinic.
Madam Poh visits the Breast Care Centre orthopaedic surgeon for a leg injury The NUHMC is
located within NUHMC for her regular check-ups. he sustained in an accident. It’s not designed to be easily
She is driven to the hospital by her son, Chan Nai uncommon for Arfa to shuttle between navigated – most
Eng, who himself is particularly impressed with his various doctors in the NUHMC, the patients are able to
what he considers as thoughtful touches.“Once Main Building and the Kent Ridge Wing. get to their destination
my mum alights from the car, there are wheelchairs He says, “Even with my crutches, it’s in no more than
conveniently located nearby.” For those who easy to get around using the linkways.” three turns within
drive, like Nai Eng, the car park is also right in the Add time-saving convenience in the building. Madam
building, while the taxi stand is just outside the the form of a wide array of available Poh’s son, Nai Eng, is
lobby entrance. amenities, and the NUHMC is a one- pleased with this. “We
stop facility that caters to the needs of used to have to travel
GREATER ACCESSIBILITY AND CONVENIENCE patients, their families and visitors, as from one building to
Indeed, one of the highlights of the new 19-storey well as staff. the next in order to get
medical centre is its convenience and accessibility. to different doctors.
It’s linked to the Kent Ridge MRT station – in fact, PATIENT-CENTRIC CARE Now, as most of the
the building is located directly above the station Efficiency and convenience are the specialists are housed
so patients go straight to their clinics in a matter of heartbeat of the design and layout of the in one building, it’s
minutes without having to worry about battling rain NUHMC. Completed last year, it houses easy for us.”
or the scorching heat. primarily specialist outpatient clinics and For patients
What’s more, the medical centre is connected other facilities for subsidised patients with poor vision like Facing page: Madam Poh and son Nai Eng appreciate
the centre’s easy-to-navigate layout. This page, from
to the two other buildings within the hospital as well as key clinical support services, 65-year-old Sulochana Veerappan Raman, top: Technician Arfa bin Ismail and his wife enjoying the
campus, making it easy for patients and visitors such as dietetics, a pharmacy, medical travelling on her own can be challenging. open, light-filled spaciousness of the NUHMC’s waiting
area; the public access link bridge provides seamless
to get around. The underground MRT concourse social work, rehabilitation and diagnostic So she was pleasantly surprised to find connection for patients, visitors and staff to the Kent
Ridge Wing; the taxi stand is conveniently located just
on Level One connects the NUHMC with the imaging services, all under one roof. easy-to-read directional signs placed outside the main entrance
Cover Story 11
Environmentally-friendly touches,
such as shading devices that keep
the heat out while allowing natural light
into the building, as well as the use of
low volatile organic compound paint that
deliver better indoor air quality, have
earned the NUHMC the Green Mark
(Platinum) award from Singapore’s
Building and Construction Authority.
Mr Deans Gordon Paul, 82, who This page (clockwise from top left): Under the
NUHMC’s integrated care, Mr Paul can see both his
has regular appointments with his cardiologist and opthalmologist right at the NUHMC
cardiologist and opthalmologist at the without having to shuttle between buildings; distinct
signage and the convenience of the MRT right next to
NUHMC, is especially appreciative of the facility, make moving around a breeze for visually
impaired Sulochana; the lobby and reception area
the expansive glass windows in the are warm and welcoming; a landscape of soothing
waiting room. “In the past, I could only
greenery and flowers greet patients and visitors. Facing
page, from top: Step through the main entrance, and
About the National
stare at the wall or watch TV, but here, I you get a sense of the brand new centre’s spacious,
comfortable, inviting ambience; the 19-storey NUH
University Cancer
get to enjoy the fantastic view outside, Medical Centre saw its first patients in July 2013 Institute, Singapore
and it’s very soothing and relaxing.” (Yong Siew Yoon Wing)
Besides the bright spaciousness, the NUHMC At A Glance Occupying three floors at the NUHMC,
choice of warm colours for the interiors the National University Cancer Institute,
Gross floor area: 72,000 sqm Singapore (Yong Siew Yoon Wing) is
and outdoor landscaping add to the Consultation rooms: 190 the only comprehensive public cancer
conducive environment for patients Treatment/Procedure rooms: 201 centre in Singapore treating both adult
Day surgery operating theatres: 10 and paediatric oncology patients.
and visitors. Environmentally-friendly Day surgery beds: 41
touches, such as shading devices that The broad spectrum of cancer care
services covers prevention, screening,
keep the heat out while allowing natural Amenities diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and
light into the building, as well as the use MRT: Kent Ridge Circle Line station palliative care.
of low volatile organic compound paint Shops and food outlets Some facilities include:
Over 390 parking lots
strategically throughout the new facility that deliver better indoor air quality,
RADIATION THERAPY CENTRE
to help her get from one place to another have earned the NUHMC the Green reconfigured, so that existing and medical centre aimed at providing Offers advanced radiation therapy
with minimal hassle. Mark (Platinum) award from Singapore’s The clinics are well spaced out with a new patient care facilities can better clinical care, research and training of techniques for the treatment of cancer.
Added Sulochana, “When the centre Building and Construction Authority. larger waiting area and no lack of seats. benefit patients. future healthcare leaders, the NUHMC BREAST CARE CENTRE
first opened, it was very helpful having Over at the Patients’ personal space and privacy also has rooms for medical research and Provides dedicated diagnosis of
and treatment for breast diseases,
staff on hand to guide and direct us. Now new pharmacy, were also key factors behind the centre’s education located close to or within including breast imaging, surgery,
that I’m more familiar with the area, I can people can sit design. Service staff and patient areas the clinics. preservation and reconstruction.
get around on my own without getting comfortably are kept apart and there is a separate These are designed to provide
HEALTH RESOURCE CENTRE (HRC)
lost, thanks to the clear signage.” and wait their drop-off point and waiting bay for young doctors with the opportunity to A dedicated space for cancer patient
turn, instead ambulance transfers. Visitors to the learn early, facilitate patient care, as support groups to hold activities and
meetings. There’s also a library and
PLEASANT ENVIRONMENT of standing in National University Cancer Institute, well as provide greater privacy for those regular educational programmes.
Practicality is one hallmark of the line. In addition, Singapore (Yong Siew Yoon Wing) on participating in research.
VIVA-UNIVERSITY CHILDREN’S
NUHMC, the other is aesthetics: creating the rehousing Levels eight to 10 have a dedicated lift Easy to get to and navigate,
CANCER CENTRE
an environment that appeals to the of the clinics lobby, while patients on trolleys move a host of convenient amenities, A child-friendly, one-stop centre
senses and makes a visit to the centre also allows the along dedicated corridors. thoughtful design details and with providing both outpatient
consultations and day therapy
a pleasant experience. Airy, light-filled 29-year-old Main extensive research and education care for children with cancer and
spaces complemented by floor-to-ceiling Building to be ENHANCING PATIENT CARE facilities, the NUHMC offers patients a blood diseases.
glass windows, lend an inviting ambience. upgraded and As the NUH is part of an academic welcome route to recovery.
12 Wellbeing
Revised Pollutant Standards Index
Since 1 April 2014, Singapore has adopted an integrated air quality reporting
index, where PM2.5 is incorporated into the current Pollutant Standards Index
Breathe Easy
(PSI) as its sixth pollutant parameter. The three-hour PSI now takes into account
PM2.5 concentrations. The National Environment Agency (NEA) also publishes the
one-hour PM2.5 concentrations hourly.
The best way to cope with the haze is to know the facts and what you can do The PSI now comprises six pollutants: sulphur dioxide, particulate matter, fine
particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and ozone.
to help yourself and your loved ones
The health advisory table below is aligned to the revised PSI reporting system.
According to the National Environment Agency (NEA), sulfates, acids, nitrates, elemental and organic carbon, and shortness of breath in people with
when the 24-hour PSI reading is between 101 and 200, it’s in trace metals, and can penetrate deep into the lungs. Most pre-existing chronic lung or heart
the “unhealthy range”. When this happens, stay indoors, and susceptible to the harmful effects of these particulates are disease. Long term exposure, for
limit contact with the external environment. those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions. example in cities that have year-
round air pollution, can cause a
PM2.5 levels refer to particulate matter smaller than Short term exposure, such as during the haze, can cause gradual decline in lung function.
2.5 microns. These fine particles comprise mainly water, respiratory tract symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and
Signs that you are affected by
the haze include irritation of the
eyes, nose and throat. Those prone
to asthma or chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease may experience
shortness of breath, wheezing, or
see their condition worsen. Seek
medical treatment if you are
feeling unwell.
To ease irritation, rinse eyes with
water or eye-wash, and drink lots of
water to soothe your throat. Reduce
outdoor activities, physical exertion
and avoid exercising outdoors –
PSI levels above 100 will negate
the benefits of a workout. People
with chronic lung or heart disease,
the elderly and pregnant women,
should avoid or minimise outdoor
activity when the air quality is very
unhealthy (PSI > 200). If they have to
be outdoors for several hours, they
may reduce exposure by wearing a
N95 mask.
Studies have shown that the
haze can aggravate existing lung
and heart ailments, and cause
inflammation of other parts of the
body. For the average healthy
PHOTO SHUTTERSTOCK
person, however, short-term
exposure of a few minutes with
minimal activity is unlikely to have
lasting harmful effects.
Source: Ministry of Health
14 Inspire
Critical Support
toenail, stands out in particular. She saw he was introduced to the prospect of
him on his first visit and over one-and- a career in radiation therapy. “I have Know Your Allied
a-half months, her team performed not looked back since,” he said. “I love Health Professionals
surgery and helped to manage his caring for patients, making them better,
Allied Health Professionals perform a range of important functions that are At the NUH alone, close to 1,300 AHPs
problem. She recalled, “I saw him on his and utilising modern technology that is from various specialist disciplines work
critical to patient care and the entire healthcare system last visit when his wound was completely always evolving and improving, inspires alongside doctors and nurses to provide
world-class care to patients.
healed – he was pain-free and the smile me on the job. As a profession, being
I definitely recommend on his face was priceless.” an AHP gives you a lot of personal
Audiologist: Helps people with their
doing an attachment, For aspiring AHPs, Daphne offered satisfaction.”
hearing, and fits hearing aids and
cochlear implants
even for just one day. There this advice: “I definitely recommend He recalled a patient in her early Clinical psychologist: Helps patients
are hazards and perks in doing an attachment, even for just one 60s, who was suffering from extreme enhance their psychological wellbeing
every [Allied Health] specialty, day. There are hazards and perks in pain. Her treatment procedure was
by assessing their personalities,
intellectual and brain functions
so it is a good idea to do every [Allied Health] specialty, so it is a complicated and required time, but the
an observation. good idea to do an observation.” team persevered and accommodated
Diagnostic radiographer: Produces
radiographic images of the body to aid
– DAPHNE TAN PODIATRIST, NUH her needs and requests. She was in diagnosing illness or injury
USING MODERN TECHNOLOGY IN so impressed that at the end of her Dietician: Uses scientific knowledge
PATIENT CARE treatment, she could not thank Hafiz and of food and human nutrition to help
people maintain and achieve
campaign to raise awareness of the Mohammed Hafiz Bin Ahmad Fuad has his team enough. good health
critical roles that these professionals play. been working at the NUH as a radiation He adds, “A good radiation therapist Medical social worker: A multi-faceted
The campaign also aims to attract young therapist, administering radiation doses is one who must, above all, have a role, which includes patient counseling
people – even offering scholarships to to cancer cells and tumours in patients. big heart for patients and a dynamic and mediation
them – and mid-career switchers to train Hafiz was in junior college when mindset,” he said. Medical technologist: Performs a
full range of laboratory tests on
and join as AHPs. body fluids, tissues and cells to
uncover diseases
FROM SCHOLAR TO PODIATRIST Occupational therapist: Helps people
Daphne is one of the MOH’s graduate perform day-to-day tasks and live
more productively
scholar AHPs. She developed a keen
interest in the health sciences after Orthoptist: Assists ophthalmologists
to assess, diagnose and treat patients
junior college, because she enjoys with eye disorders
meeting new people and did not want Pharmacist: Ensures the optimal and
a desk-bound job. She received an safe use of drugs
MOH Health Science Scholarship to Physiotherapist: Treats movement
study podiatry at La Trobe University in disorders, helping patients to relieve
pain and improve mobility
Melbourne, Australia. Upon graduation
last year, she joined the NUH as a Podiatrist: Treats patients with medical
conditions involving the feet and
podiatrist. “I love my job because it is lower limbs
hands-on and very people-centred,” Radiation therapist: Treats cancer
she said. patients using sophisticated
D
ealing with wounds, blood Working alongside doctors and A typical workday for Daphne computerised equipment and
techniques to accurately deliver
and feet are all in a day’s work nurses, the AHPs, being specialists in begins at 8am, where there is a round of the prescribed radiation dose to kill
for Daphne Tan. From the their own fields, provide a range of meetings, followed by clinical work. The cancer cells
prevention, diagnosis, treatment and diagnostic, technical, therapeutic, and NUH currently has eight podiatrists, who Respiratory therapist: Works with
rehabilitation of foot and ankle disorders, direct patient care and support services work closely as a team, and are rostered patients suffering from respiratory
conditions such as asthma or lung cancer
to performing surgery on ingrown that are essential to healthcare teams, to run various clinics or consult with
Speech therapist: Treats people with
toenails, she has seen it all. Yet, she is and the patients they serve. patients in the wards. speech, swallowing, language or
neither a doctor nor a nurse. Instead, she To the general public, AHPs are often Although her days are busy and the communication problems
is part of a dynamic 1,300-strong team of overlooked, but this is set to change. work is challenging, grateful patients Visit www.nuh.com.sg for more
Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) at the Last year, the Ministry of Health (MOH) never fail to motivate Daphne. One AHP disciplines.
National University Hospital (NUH). launched its “Care to Go Beyond” patient, who had a very painful ingrown
16 Inspire Wellbeing 17
Beat Colorectal Cancer Get HealthWise
Keeping a close watch on your health and regular screening can prevent the disease In conjunction with World Health Day this month, here are
eight ways to stay in the pink
M
any of us are guilty of not be prevented if detected early. The key is
being vigilant about our health
screenings. Excuses range
from lack of time and ignorance to an
regular screening.
In March, the 13th Colorectal Cancer
Awareness Month kicked off, with this year’s
Cut Your Risk
Keep your weight in check – obesity,
especially abdominal fat, puts you
1 Avoid starting your day with fried
bee hoon with luncheon meat and
egg, a popular local breakfast meal.
out for persistent feelings of sadness
or emptiness; loss of interest in
activities; erratic sleep patterns;
at risk
attitude of “it won’t happen to me”. The campaign encouraging Singaporeans from One plate serves up a whopping 935 restlessness; fatigue; and feelings
Exercise regularly, at least three
truth, however, is that illness can strike us all walks of life – from the home and the calories – almost 40 per cent of the of worthlessness, among some
times a week
suddenly, and when we least expect it. community to the workplace – to champion recommended daily calorie intake – symptoms. Seek professional help. and their minds engaged. Do “mind
Avoid red meat, especially processed,
Take colorectal cancer for instance. In the importance of colorectal cancer smoked, salted or cured meats like and 1,351mg of sodium. aerobics” to challenge your brain and
Singapore, between 2008-2012, colorectal screening, and those aged 50 and above to hot dogs and sausages keep it alert. For example, brush your
cancer was the most commonly diagnosed go for screening. Get your daily recommended dose of About World teeth with your less dominant hand,
cancer in men, and the second most Adopting “Bring your loved ones,
calcium and vitamin D, both nutrients
are associated with a reduced risk of
Health Day 2014 take a new route to your destination
commonly diagnosed cancer among Bring your staff” as its theme, the National colorectal cancer This year’s World Health Day on or expand your social circle. People
7 April focused on diseases caused
women. Colorectal cancer is also the University Hospital (NUH) and National Limit your alcohol consumption with mental agility tend to have lower
by vectors, such as mosquitoes,
number one cancer among Singaporeans University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Don’t smoke. Smoking puts you at flies, ticks and bugs. With a incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and
aged 50 and above – as the risk increases (NCIS) invited companies to get onboard risk for colorectal and lung cancer campaign called “Small bite, big age-related mental decline.
threat”, the aim is to educate
with age – with about 1,700 new cases as workplace advocates. This year, eight Eat five or more servings of fruits
families living in, and travellers
and vegetables a day – that’s two
diagnosed each year.
7 There are four strains of dengue
venturing to areas where diseases
cups of fruit and two-and-a-half cups
What causes the disease? Factors vary, Eight major of vegetables
are transmitted by vectors, on how
to protect themselves. The World
virus, and a previous infection does
organisations have
from a diet high in saturated fats and low
in fibre, too much alcohol, inflammatory
bowel diseases, lack of exercise, to age
pledged their support to help
educate their staff about the
Get screened annually
Know your family history – if you
have immediate relatives who
2 Three seasonal flu strains circulate
year-round in Singapore – influenza
A (H1N1), influenza A (H3N2) and
Health Organisation (WHO) also
hopes to encourage government
ministries to establish measures to
not make you immune to infection by
other strains. According to the National
Environment Agency (NEA), eggs of
developed cancer or polyps before protect the population in countries
and genetics. Symptoms may not appear disease and the lifesaving the age of 60, go for screening early influenza B. Get protected with where vector-borne diseases are the Aedes mosquito can lie dormant in
a public health problem or an
in the early stages, but fortunately, it can benefits of screening. an annual vaccination, particularly emerging threat.
a dry place for up to nine months, and
important fo young children, adults hatch within a day of being exposed
major organisations have pledged their aged 65 and above, and those with to water. Seal all containers, remove
support to help educate their staff about
the disease and the lifesaving benefits of
chronic illnesses.
5 The latest National
Health Survey
plastic sheets and check your drains
and unused toilet bowls – all it takes is
screening. They will allocate half a day each
year for doctors from the NUH and NCIS
to conduct talks and facilitate medical
3 According to a regional
survey, Singaporeans are
sleep-deprived, clocking 6.4
shows that one in 10
Singaporeans – or
10.8 per cent – is
a tiny 20-cent puddle for the mosquito
to breed.
follow-ups for the next three years. FIT
(Faecal Immunochemical Test) kits – which
check for blood in the stool, a potential
hours of sleep a night, when
the optimum is seven to 7.5
hours. Sleep deprivation is linked
now obese, caused by
a sedentary lifestyle and
frequent dining out. Combat
8 Singapore has one of the world’s
highest rates of myopia – an eye
condition that affects a person’s ability
sign of cancer – will also be distributed to to obesity, diabetes, heart disease obesity by exercising at to see distant objects clearly. At least
employees. Quick, safe and easy to use, as well as psychiatric conditions. least 30 minutes a day and 30 per cent of Primary One kids have
the test can be done at home. Sleeping in on weekends doesn’t when eating out, ask for more defective vision, and this goes up to as
Also joining the companies are two make up for “sleep debt”. vegetables and less oil, salt, high as 60 per cent at upper primary.
primary schools. Through health talks and Instead, add an extra hour or two gravy, noodles and rice. Encourage your kids to practise good
activities, students from Fuhua Primary of sleep a night to catch up. eye care habits, such as not holding
PHOTO SHUTTERSTOCK
School and Bukit Timah Primary School will
have a better understanding of colorectal
cancer, and bring the screening message 4 About 5.6 per cent of
Singaporeans are affected by
6 With Singapore having one of
the fastest ageing populations
in the world, it’s important for the
reading material too close to the eyes
and reading in the dark or lying down.
Get them to take frequent half hour
home to their families. depression during their lifetime. Look elderly to keep themselves busy breaks or play outdoors.
18 Feature
A New Lease Of Life “As Co-Director of Index (BMI), which measures body
NUCOT, I see my fat based on height and weight,
role as facilitating the best became normal. Now married,
The right donor match and clinical transplant programme can determine clinical liver and pancreas the couple went under the knife
transplant programme for together one-and-half years after
the quality of life for organ transplant patients Vikneshwari’s diagnosis. Said Dr Tiong
patients. We aim to be both a The National
Ho Yee, a consultant in the Department
national and regional centre University
of Urology, and part of the transplant
for organ transplantation,
team, “We were privileged to be part Centre for Organ
and stand out as one of the
flagship programmes of of an amazing love story. We were truly Transplantation
the hospital. moved by Vikneswaran’s determination (NUCOT)
to give his wife a gift of life.” Over half of all solid organ transplants
– PROFESSOR KK MADHAVAN,
(of the liver, kidney and pancreas) in
CO-DIRECTOR, ADULT LIVER AND PANCREAS
restructured hospitals in Singapore are
TRANSPLANTATION PROGRAMME, NUCOT Like Vikneshwari, 10-year-old Phyllis Poh
performed by the NUCOT, which holds
needed a transplant. She was suffering 100 per cent one-year patient survival
failure, and live donor kidney transplants from a genetic condition called glycogen rates for liver, renal and pancreas
transplants. The Centre was formed
give much higher success rates, better storage disease, where the liver is in 2008 to meet national needs for
kidney function and less rejection incapable of producing a critical enzyme organ transplantation, and as a centre
for research, training and education in
compared to a deceased donor kidney needed to break down glycogen – the organ transplantation and donation.
transplant. Given her young age, a kidney body’s store of sugar. This affects physical
NUCOT has scored several firsts, one
transplant meant a much better quality and neurological growth. Hope came
of which was a living donor kidney
of life for Vikneshwari as she’s freed from when maintenance supervisor Chow Wei transplant across ABO-incompatible
dialysis and all the attendant fluid and Lin, 48, stepped forward to donote his and positive-HLA cross match in 2009.
Historically, ABO-incompatibility or
dietary restrictions.” liver, and was found to be a match. positive-HLA cross matches are contra-
Meanwhile, Vikneswaran was told On 5 March 2014, Phyllis was indications for kidney transplantation,
as the risk of rejection after
that his obesity could eliminate him as operated on by Professor K Prabhakaran,
transplantation is typically over 80 per
a possible candidate. Bent on saving Head, Department of Paediatric Surgery, cent. With strong immune-suppression
his then-fiancee’s life, Vikneswaran while Dr Alfred Kow, a consultant with and special techniques, such transplants
are possible and highly successful. The
opted for a sleeve gastrectomy at the the Division of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Centre also successfully performed a
NUH Centre for Obesity Management, Surgery, headed the team to get the combined liver-kidney transplant in a
single surgery on a teenager in 2010,
a procedure in which three-quarters liver. It will take up to a year for Phyllis to and the first simultaneous pancreas
THE STRAITS TIMES © SINGAPORE PRESS HOLDINGS LIMITED. REPRODUCED WITH PERMISSION
of his stomach was removed. In five recover. But for Vikneshwari and Phyllis, a and kidney transplant in Singapore
months, he lost 42kg and his Body Mass new chapter has already begun. in September 2012. Its Co-Directors,
Professor KK Madhavan and Professor
A Vathsala, have experience managing
O
n New Year’s Eve in 2011, “Every year, there are immediately started on dialysis. Told by over 1,000 transplants.
Vikneshwari M Rastrapathi over 900 new patients doctors that her best hope for recovery NUCOT continues its work outside the
noticed her legs were swollen. in Singapore with end-stage was a kidney transplant, her then-fiancé, operating theatre. It has won several
research grants and presentations and
It was the first sign that something kidney failure, of whom Vikneswaran Mayilvanam, stepped
received the top prize at the Annual
was wrong with the 26-year-old. After two-thirds can benefit from forward immediately as a donor. By then, Scientific Meeting of the Society of
several visits to various GPs who could Vikneshwari had been transferred to the Transplantation (Singapore) for five
a kidney transplant, which consecutive years since 2009. Its staff
not determine the cause, she went to a can extend life by as much National University Hospital (NUH) under has presented at local, regional and
hospital’s Accident & Emergency (A&E) the care of Dr Angeline Goh, a consultant international conferences and had their
as 20 years. Our mission work published in medical journals.
department, where she was diagnosed with the Division of Nephrology.
is to promote kidney
with end-stage renal failure. Despite the potential risks involved
transplants as the best
It came as a shock as she had in the couple’s case, the decision to
treatment for patients with Facing page: Vikneswaran lost 42kg before he was
received a clean bill of health just three perform the transplant put paid to the
kidney failure. deemed fit to donate his kidney to then-fiancee
months prior during a pre-employment uncertainties. Said Dr Goh, “Kidney Vikneshwari. This page, from top: Phyllis Poh underwent
– PROFESSOR A VATHSALA, CO-DIRECTOR, a liver transplant this March, thanks to her donor (left,
medical examination. At the hospital, RENAL TRANSPLANTATION PROGRAMME,
transplantation is the best treatment with glasses), 48-year-old Chow Wei Lin, who attended
the recent organ donation road show organised by the
she was given a blood transfusion and NUCOT modality for patients with end-stage renal NUCOT to show his support20 10 Minutes With…
RESPIRATORY THERAPIST
SRINIVAS PEDDIREDDY
W
hile the simple act of handle ventilators and assist doctors with WHAT ARE THE CAREER
breathing seems instinctive, emergency CPRs. PROSPECTS FOR RESPIRATORY
helping others breathe THERAPISTS?
effortlessly is a highly specialised and YOU WORK WITH KIDS. ANY SPECIAL With experience, you can progress
demanding skill. Srinivas Peddireddy, SKILLS OR QUALITIES NEEDED? from general ward work to caring
a respiratory therapist in the National Compassion is important as their families for critically ill patients. You can also
University Hospital’s (NUH) Paediatric are worried about them, and patience, explore entering specialised fields
Department, shares how he helps as you may need to spend time working such as cardio-pulmonary and sleep
patients breathe better. with patients and their families. laboratories, home care, and education,
among others.
WHAT DO YOU DO? WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE AT WORK?
I work with people with breathing issues When I see my patients getting better, ANY BREATHING TIPS?
such as asthma and pneumonia; who especially in the Intensive Care Unit! And Breathing techniques are very important
require long-term ventilation support; when nurses and doctors say they are for relaxation. Imagine smelling a
and who suffered heart attacks or trauma grateful for my assistance, I feel I’m an beautiful flower – inhale through the nose
like drowning. I also work with doctors on integral part of the team. and exhale through the mouth. Release
treatment plans for patients. all tension in the process. Or, inhale long
WHAT ARE SOME WORK and deep through the nose. Then exhale
CAN YOU DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY? CHALLENGES YOU FACE? through the mouth by making a hissing
I start my shift by checking, As patients’ lives are in my hands, I sound (Hissing Breath). Extending the
troubleshooting and setting up always have to be quick and sharp, and exhalation has wonderful calming effects,
ventilators for new patients. Then, with this can be challenging. Working in a physically and mentally.
the medical team, we make our patient critical-care environment and keeping up
rounds and review their care plans. with technological innovations, also mean Interested in a career in healthcare?
I also teach family members how to I have to learn to manage my own stress. Visit www.nuh.com.sg to find out more.You can also read
