HOSPITAL staff have been creating their own reusable cloth hats.
Theatre staff teams at West Cumberland Hospital (WCH) have created hundreds of reusable surgical hats.
The Colleges of Surgeons are encouraging their members to move away from single-use disposable items.
This inspired the staff in Cumbria to create their cloth hats. Andrea Storey, theatre nurse in WCH, has made 800 hats so far.
Other members of staff have been bringing fabric into use, and they have even created themed hats for different occasions.
Some have been Christmas-themed and others have children's characters on for when the staff are in the Children's Ward.
Andrea Storey said: "When I start my shift in theatres in West Cumberland Hospital it puts a smile on my face to see my colourful hats on my colleagues’ heads. It makes my day.”
Ingrid Wilkins, consultant anaesthetist, said: "There is ample evidence that names and roles in large font letters on surgical hats improve communication among staff and with patients. Patients struggle to identify theatre staff who look all the same behind masks, scrubs and surgical hats.
"Being able to read their names and roles on the top of their heads makes a big difference."
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