Caring for dementia patients is
often challenging and emotionally
demanding for family members,
especially when caregivers have
difficulty understanding their loved
ones’ behaviours. At Changi General
Hospital’s (CGH) dementia ward, Senior
Nurse Manager Savithri is always on
hand to offer support, comfort and
advice.
Armed with 40 years of nursing
experience, she was instrumental in
setting up the first dementia ward at
CGH in 2015 to provide dedicated care
to these patients. The ward has a “no
restraints” policy that allows patients
to interact freely and participate in
activities.
“As dementia patients need
individualised care due to differences
in their behaviours, having a dedicated
ward ensures that their specialised
needs are met,” said Savithri, who has
contributed many ideas to improve the
patients’ quality of life.
One initiative that is close to her heart
is the robotic pet therapy programme
which uses a life-like robotic cat or dog
to calm patients who show signs of
agitation or depression.
Savithri identified patients for this
programme when it was started in 2017
and it has been successful in improving
patients’ moods, especially for those
who used to own pets.
Another programme that she introduced
is the Snoezelen Sensory Board, a
multisensory stimulation therapy that
uses items that stimulate the senses to
reduce patients’ behavioural issues.
Beyond patient care, Savithri is a peer
supporter for the nurses in her ward.
She provides emotional support and
shares tips to help them cope with
stress. She is also a strong advocate
for nursing education, and is one of the
main trainers for workshops on topics
such as Advance Care Planning.
Despite her busy schedule, Savithri
volunteers at several social welfare
organisations, such as the Infant Jesus
Home and Children’s Centre where
she spends time baking cookies with
the children and teaching them hand
hygiene practices.
“Volunteering offers me the chance
to give back to the community and to
make a difference in someone’s life. It
is gratifying to see others happy,” she
shared.
Sinnatamby Savithri
Senior Nurse Manager
Ward 58
Changi General Hospital
Recipient of the Singapore Health Quality Service Awards (SHQSA) 2020 Superstar Award - Nursing Category
