Our maternity team and local mothers have been praised after we became the top performers in the country in two research studies.
The Trust’s maternity service has recruited the most women to the iHOLDS study – with 97 volunteers so far.
The Trust is one of eight involved in the study. It is also the smallest health trust participating.
The trial is comparing high dose versus low dose Syntocinon for first-time mothers undergoing induction of labour. It aims to see if it affects the caesarean section rate.
Kirsty Farrington, research midwife, said: “We have been the highest recruiting trust for the iHOLDS study for six consecutive months.
“All staff involved have shown a real commitment to integrate research into everyday practice – it has been a great success.”
The team is also the second highest recruiter to the COPE study which is investigating carboprost versus oxytocin as the first treatment of primary postpartum haemorrhage.
Sharon Gowans, Research Midwife, said: “This is an incredible achievement for the maternity team.
“The research team have been there to support them. But the maternity staff have worked independently to talk to patients and encourage them about the benefits of being involved in these trials.”
Julie Woollaston is a specialist lead midwife and research midwife. She said: “It is a team effort and as a research team we would like to acknowledge the outstanding work that clinical staff have carried out, thanks to them we are working towards improving outcomes for women in the future.”
The research team would also like to thank all women who have volunteered to help support their mission to deliver the best evidence-based care.