A new machine to help patients has been donated to the Royal Bournemouth Hospital by University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity.
The “Nippy Clearway 2” is a cough assist device, to help people who struggle to clear secretions from their airway.
The body normally clears the airway by coughing, but this can be difficult for people living with neuromuscular disorders, spinal cord injuries or other conditions that impact breathing.
University Hospitals Dorset senior physiotherapist, Claire Creasey, said the Nippy Clearway 2 is a real game-changer for patients at Royal Bournemouth Hospital as it will help them breathe easier and reduce the risk of respiratory complications.
Claire said: “Critical illness can cause muscle weakness including the respiratory muscles. The diaphragm and chest muscles are needed to move air in and out of the lungs and to provide strength for a cough.
“For those who can’t cough effectively on their own, the Nippy Clearway 2 is a vital tool in preventing respiratory infection and keeping their airways clear.
“We’re so grateful to University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity for purchasing the Nippy Clearway 2 and making it possible for us to help more people who need assistance coughing – it will make a world of difference.”
The donation was made possible with a grant from the Bournemouth Chest Diseases Charitable Trust.
Photo from left to right: Claire Creasey, Dr Diane Laws, Heidi Piper and Kate Ledger (student physio)