Children and families spending time at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital’s (DBTH) were recently treated to a special learning experience - with costumes, toy medical devices and imaginary scenarios - to aid their recovery and lift their spirits.
As part of a national initiative called ‘Nurses of the Future’, the fun-day was an exciting opportunity to engage younger patients in playful activities involving an array of make-believe nursing scenarios. This was designed to make their stay more relaxing and comfortable. Creative play involved pretend X-Rays, using toy stethoscopes and giving treatment to other toys using equipment from their very own doctor’s bags. In addition, it also helped to raise aspirations among the children for considering nursing and other medical careers within the health service.
The Play and Activity Team work in the children’s areas at both Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Bassetlaw Hospital, by arranging fun activities on the wards.
Jill Edwards, Play Leader at the Trust, said: “Children in hospital are likely to look up to those who are caring for them and this is the perfect opportunity to get them interested in the profession. Our visitors really enjoyed the day and it gave them something fun to focus on and distract them from their treatment.”
The Trust has been working in partnership with Doncaster school, Hall Cross Academy, to offer work-experience opportunities for students interested in careers in health and social care.