Thanks to generous donations, Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, has been able to fund two Handheld Vein Viewing Systems for the Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) Unit and the Outpatients Department at Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest.

On occasion, due to a patient’s medical condition or anxiety, staff have difficulty taking their bloods. The new vein finding equipment, worth over £9,000, will be extremely beneficial to patients and staff by reducing the number of any unsuccessful attempts at taking blood.

Helen Johns, Hospital Service Manager, said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the generous donations we have received that have enabled us to purchase the two vein finders for Withybush Hospital.

“Both departments frequently draw blood, with SDEC needing to cannulate patients to begin treatment. SDEC prioritizes early interventions to prevent hospital admissions, and any delays in starting treatment could hinder this objective.

“The vein finders will be highly beneficial for patients. Patients are often referred to the SDEC by their GP due to their medical condition and may be quite anxious. If staff struggle to take blood and cannula, the patient’s anxiety is likely to increase, potentially delaying the start of their treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.

Your donations are making a positive difference to the health, wellbeing and experience of NHS patients, service users and staff.

For more details about the charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to www.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk