Heartbeat: Energy pods boost busy shifts

December 15, 2019

Taking 5 really can make a difference to how you feel. Recognising that our staff need time to rest during busy shifts, our Trust has invested in some exciting technology. This will help colleagues take some time out and recharge their batteries.

In July our Trust was lucky enough to secure two state of the art energy pods on loan for a short trial. The results have been so overwhelmingly positive that the pods are now becoming a permanent fixture and long term investment in wellbeing.

Leading on the trial of the energy pods has been Junior Doctor CT1, Eoin Dore who shared his thoughts with Heartbeat. Eoin said: “Recently there had been a number of high profile deaths of clinicians who after long shifts caring for patients have unfortunately been involved in accidents on their way home. This sowed the seed for a conversation with our colleagues and it soon became evident that there were colleagues who felt that a little rest and recuperation during a shift could have a significant positive impact on their ability.

“Few people would know that moderate sleep deprivation—equal to being awake for 16–18 hours can have the same effect on reaction time as being at the legal blood alcohol limit for safe driving. Would you want someone that tired looking after you or a loved one?”

During the loan period colleagues made use of the two energy pods at City Hospital and the results are nothing short of outstanding. Colleagues were asked to complete a short survey before using the pod and once again at the end of the trial period to understand the long term effect.

Before the pods were available only 38 per cent of colleagues were able to take 30 minute breaks, however following their installation, this jumped to 82 per cent of doctors being able to take a break and 67 per cent of nurses. Overall, 85 per cent of colleagues polled felt more alert after using the pods, 83 per cent felt more energised and almost every single one of them would recommend the energy pods.

A testament to the positive impact of the energy pods, colleagues commented in the polls, “Feel calmer like I’m able to process thoughts better” and “Whilst I had my time in the pod, I felt relaxed and ready to do my job all over again.”