Patients enjoy ice lollies - but not due to the heat

Patients at the Royal Surrey County Hospital, in Guildford, are being given ice lollies after operations - but not due to the hot weather.

It is thought that ice lollies could help to reduce thirst, sore throats, nausea and discomfort after operations.

The idea was developed by the anaesthetic department, recovery nurses and the University of Surrey.

Dr Kai Patel, a consultant anaesthetist, said: "Sometimes, small changes can make a big difference to how patients feel after surgery."

He added: "This has been a true multidisciplinary effort involving anaesthetics, recovery nursing, researchers and charity support."

The project is funded by the Royal Surrey Charity and was organised to improve patient comfort after anaesthesia.

It is based on evidence from studies suggesting ice lollies may improve patient satisfaction and potentially reduce symptoms after surgery.

Early feedback from patients and staff has been positive, the hospital said. Data will continue to be collected over the coming weeks.

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