Improving Patient Safety in Theatre, One Small Change at a Time

From Challenge to Change in Theatre

When Tshemba volunteer anaesthetist Dr. Charly Waldon noticed that the Tintswalo Hospital theatre team had no safe way to transfer patients after surgery, she knew something had to change. What began as a simple observation became a small but powerful shift in how patients are cared for, and how it protected staff.

“During my time volunteering with Tshemba as an anaesthetist, I recognised that the theatre team didn't have a safe way of transferring patients from the operating table to the bed,” Dr. Waldon said. “They were using rolled-up sheets to lift patients across. This was not only a patient safety issue but also a real concern for staff. Many told me they’d hurt themselves lifting patients this way.”

A Simple, Sustainable Solution

Determined to find a safer approach, Charly identified an easy fix: a patslide, a type of transfer board that allows patients to glide smoothly from one surface to another with minimal lifting.

“With support from generous Tshemba donors, we were able to purchase a patslide for theatre,” she explains. “Once we gained approval from the hospital, I was able to donate it to the team and run training sessions on how to use it safely and effectively.”

Protecting Patients and Staff

The difference was immediate. Patients could now be transferred more comfortably and safely after surgery. There was no more being awkwardly lifted or jostled. And for theatre staff, the change reduced the risk of back strain and injury, improving morale and working conditions.

What started as one volunteer’s observation turned into a sustainable improvement that will benefit countless patients and healthcare workers long after her placement ended.

A Lasting Impact

Small changes can make a big difference. Because of the generosity of Tshemba’s donors, tools like the patslide are improving care and protecting staff every day.

Your donation helps fund essential equipment like this—simple innovations that make rural healthcare safer, more dignified, and more sustainable.

‍Support this incredible work by donating

Together, we can keep improving the quality of care in rural hospitals.

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Dr. Charly Waldon, UK‍

Anaesthetist