Introducing Alex and Archie, our latest innovation for paediatric HPN patients

Meet Alex and Archie, our new friendly companions who are on hand to guide our young home parenteral nutrition patients through the process of adapting to clinical care at home and the challenges it may bring. These fun new characters have been created to make clinical care at home a more interactive and a less intimidating experience for children through play and creative engagement.

Normalising the experience of clinical care at home

By introducing superheroes Alex and his sidekick dog Archie to our HPN service, we hope to help paediatric patients understand their HPN journey through stories, puzzles, colouring and games. These characters embody the spirit of fun and exploration, helping to normalise the experience of clinical care at home. They are designed to provide comfort and reassurance, illustrating that health management can be engaging and enjoyable.

The importance of distraction techniques

Play and distraction help children cope with their treatment, express their feelings, and alleviate pain or discomfort, resulting in a significantly more positive healthcare experience. Our Clinical Operations Manager for Paediatrics and Region 2 IV Therapies, Abigail Morris, is one of the main drivers of this new initiative.

“Play therapy and distraction techniques are vital components of paediatric nursing. They serve not only to alleviate fear and anxiety but also to promote emotional wellbeing. Engaging children in play allows them to express their feelings and cope with the challenges of medical procedures.”

“Research shows that when children are distracted through play, they experience less pain and discomfort, making their healthcare experience significantly more positive. By integrating playful elements into treatment, we can create a more supportive and comforting environment for young patients. This approach not only aids in their immediate healthcare needs but also fosters resilience and coping skills that are essential for their growth.”

– Abigail Morris, Clinical Operations Manager, Paediatrics and Region 2 IV Therapies

We know how to support our paediatric HPN patients

As one of the UK’s most experienced providers of specialist clinical care for both paediatric and adult patients, we’re thrilled to welcome Alex and Archie, who will bring comfort, courage, and joy to our young HPN patients and their families. We can’t wait to see Alex and Archie make a difference for our young patients.

Leaders in paediatric home parenteral nutrition

We are a market leader in the provision of home parenteral nutrition (HPN) for children.

We support our young patients from the commencement of service, through transition to adulthood, ensuring consistency in product supply and service.

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