But Hospital staff have launched a new initiative to encourage patients to wear, whenever possible, clothes to help reduce their time in hospital and to maintain their independence.
The campaign, which aims to ensure patients can remain mobile during their stay, is part of a worldwide initiative to end what is known among medics as ‘PJ Paralysis’.
Jenna McKay, senior sister on Rayner Ward, who has been part of rolling out the campaign in Jersey, said: ‘It has been going on in the UK for some time. It has been proven that it reduces the length of hospital stays, increases patients’ mood, reduces falls and pressure sores. Ultimately, it is to give patients a bit more mobility.’
She added that by getting up and about during their time in hospital patients were less prone to falling as they were not as likely to have suffered muscle loss. And those who get dressed tended to have shorter stays in hospital as they retain their independence in carrying out ‘normal’ everyday activities.
To raise awareness about the campaign, staff wore their pyjamas to work and posters have also been placed around the Hospital urging patients and their loved ones to ensure they pack day clothes which are comfortable and loose fitting.
Physiotherapist Adriana Place said: ‘It is a whole culture change not just for patients but for their relatives as well. There’s an impression that when you go to hospital you are in PJs and stay in bed. But wherever clinically possible, patients should be moving around. For patients over the age of 80, ten days in bed can lead to ten years of muscle ageing.’
Kerry Bartlett, occupational therapist, added: ‘During an average stay in hospital 70 per cent of older patients can lose up to a third of their functional ability. That has an impact on their nearest and dearest who may have to give up work or who may have to pay for a care package. Or they may not be able to return home, which is devastating.’
