Ward manager Rhian crowned a Health Hero

A NURSE who provides invaluable support to children with major kidney problems has been named our latest Health Hero.

Rhian Pearson, the ward manager of the Children’s Kidney Centre in Cardiff, is responsible for teaching young patients and their families how to use dialysis.

Dialysis involves removing waste products and excess fluid from the body when someone’s kidneys stop working properly.

It is Rhian’s job to offer advice and support on both peritoneal dialysis, which takes place at the patient’s home, and haemodialysis which is typically carried out at the hospital.

She was nominated for the accolade by colleague Andrea Williams who described her as a “dedicated nurse” adept at building “strong, professional relationships”.

Rhian, who has been in the nursing profession since 1985, said: “I’m so delighted to be given this award and it was completely unexpected.

“I work with a fantastic team which includes nurses, play specialists, consultants, dieticians and social workers. It’s one big family.”

The Children’s Kidney Centre, based on the University Hospital of Wales site, caters for both inpatients and outpatients from across South and Mid Wales.

Rhian, originally from Anglesey but now living in Grangetown, Cardiff, said one of the most important parts of her job was giving young patients the confidence to carry out dialysis themselves.

“I go out to see the patients in their homes, go on school or college visits and liaise with community nurses, as well as manage the unit,” said the mum of one.

“We see a lot of patients here from birth and over time you get to know them really well and build up relationships. That’s the best part of the job.”

Many children who need dialysis will need to have a kidney transplant at some point in the future.

Rhian said her team works with staff at the Bristol Children’s Hospital who carry out the transplant.

“Dialysis does impact on the lives and education of children,” she added.

“If they’re on haemodialysis they’ll need to come to the kidney centre three or four times a week and spend three or four hours on a machine.

“For peritoneal dialysis they’ll need nine to 12 hours on a machine in one go and that’s usually done when they’re asleep.

“They also need to have regular appointments, have dietary restrictions and take regular medication.”

But she said a kidney transplant was the best option to allow young patients to lead healthy lives.

She added: “A successful transplant can almost restore a child’s normal life and this is what gives me job satisfaction.”

Andrea, the deputy manager of the Pelican Ward at the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital, nominated Rhian for the Health Hero prize.

Rhian will now get to enjoy a treat at the Park Plaza hotel in Greyfriars Road, Cardiff.

Andrea said: “Rhian is always at the end of her phone for these families, providing constant support and advice to them.

“Rhian is extremely supportive to the nurses on the children’s renal ward, providing ongoing training, advice and support.”

If you know an unsung hero who works or volunteers for Cardiff and Vale University Health Board you can nominate them for our Health Hero award by emailing mark.smith@mediawales. co.uk