2023-06-28T23:00:00+00:00

Beautiful handmade bags solve syringe pump problem

We all know the power of a network of friends, and it definitely provided an elegant solution to help patients transport vital equipment.

Roxburghe House physiotherapist Ruth Paterson was chatting to Friends committee member Gordon Robertson, when she asked if Friends could provide bags for patients’ syringe driver pump.

Portable syringe driver pumps are used in palliative care to deliver a continuous subcutaneous infusion of medication over 24 hours. The idea was to provide a bag that patients in the ward could use to pop the pump into.

The network sprang into action and Friends were there to help, as the aunt of Gordon’s wife, Muriel Cattanach offered to lend a hand.

She has created 40 bags so far, in a range of colours and designs. Fellow Friends Anne Brown and Fiona Leslie completed the production line.

“Muriel had agreed to make 20 bags for us to get started,” said Fiona, “so we were delighted to hear she had produced twice the amount.

“They are beautiful in varying colours which are bright and cheery and I think the patients will really appreciate them.

“We made a label so it looked a nice wee thing to present to the patient and Anne and I bagged up half of them at the weekend so they are ready to go.”

The handmade bags have either a long ribbon or material strap to go over the patient’s shoulder for comfort and ease. The team is hoping to get more bags made so the unit has a constant supply.

“It’s another example of the fantastic teamwork where Roxburghe House staff and Friends have come together to carry out a really worthwhile project that will benefit the patients,” said Fiona.

“We’d like to pass on our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made it happen.”

- Anne Brown (centre) is pictured handing over the bags to Roxburghe House staff nurses Rachael Niven (left) and Nicola Buchan

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