The Aseptic Unit at Ulster Hospital recently gave the public a rare glimpse into the extreme processes involved in producing medicines, such as Chemotherapy, for the most vulnerable patients in the South Eastern Trust. This initiative is aimed at increasing the public’s understanding of the critical role played by the behind-the-scenes Pharmacy Teams.
Aseptic Units are among the most sterile environments in hospitals, where medications are prepared under stringent conditions to ensure sterility. The unit comprises a series of clean rooms equipped with isolation technology. These isolators are vital in the production of treatments such as Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy and Biologic Therapy for conditions like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. It also provides intravenous nutrition for both adult and neonatal patients across Trust.
Pharmacy Technician Mandy O’Brien emphasised the unit’s patient-centric approach, stating, “We are incredibly patient focused but not always patient facing.” This shows the pivotal, yet unseen role the dedicated team plays within the hospital’s operations.
Pharmacy Aseptic and Cancer Lead, Claire Tinneny, underscored the significance of having such services available onsite at the Ulster Hospital. She remarked, “This service is of immense value to our patients, enabling us to provide essential treatments for cancer patients, people with autoimmune conditions and those with additional nutritional needs.”
Chief Pharmacy Technician, Helen Winters, shared her perspective after 17 years at the Ulster Hospital, “I haven’t had a day where I don’t want to come into work. I find the role very rewarding and the team finds a real sense of purpose as we know we are helping patients directly.”
The virtual glance, posted on the Trust’s social media pages, not only showcased the advanced technology and stringent protocols within the Aseptic Unit, but also highlighted the dedication and compassion of the Pharmacy Teams who are committed to improving patient outcomes and their quality of life.
