A PIONEERING project to improve the care of mums having caesareans has been highly commended at a prestigious awards ceremony.

The enhanced recovery pathway in obstetrics is led by Mr Venkat Raman, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and maternity and anaesthetic teams at Southend Hospital.

It was launched in May 2015, and aims to ensure the highest levels of care and health during C-sections to help speed up recovery - which means that mum and baby spend quality time in their own home after delivery.

It has been highly commended in the category of obstetrics and gynaecology in the Health Service Journal Value in Healthcare Awards 2017.

Mr Raman said: “The way we care has seen a reduction in pre-operative starving times, better management of pain relief, better prevention of nausea and vomiting following surgery, early mobilisation minimising complications such as DVT, shortened hospital stay and early discharge. All of this contributes to a better patient experience.

“Just for us to be nominated for an award was a huge honour, let alone highly commended for our passion and hard work. The team are immensely proud of being recognised as one of the best in our field.”