Innovative UniWee™ device set to transform care for immobile female patients

A groundbreaking project is underway to implement the UniWee™, an innovative device designed to provide female patients who are unable to walk with a dignified, pain-free way to urinate whilst sitting or lying down. 

Developed and led by Emergency Department and Trauma and Orthopaedic staff at Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, in collaboration with staff from multiple NHS Trusts across the South West, including South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust and Sailsbury NHS Foundation Trust, the initiative brings together expertise to improve outcomes for patients.

The UniWee™ is a modified male urinal bottle with a wider opening, making it both cost-effective and sustainable. By minimising discomfort and reducing unnecessary movement, the device improves the patient experience while also saving valuable staff time.

Recognising its potential benefits, researchers launched a formal study to assess its acceptability among patients and healthcare professionals and explore how it could be integrated into standard care.

The UniWee™ has already gained the support of NHS Supply Chain and OmniPac, the manufacturer of male urinal bottles. Working with the support of the Trust, OmniPac has developed prototypes and is preparing to scale up production, with the aim of rolling out the device across the NHS nationwide.

Dr. Siân Thomas, Emergency Doctor and Chief Investigator, said:

"We are thrilled to take this project further. Our future studies will explore how the UniWee™ can reduce catheter use and improve bladder care for patients. By gathering evidence, we hope to ensure that more patients and clinical teams benefit from this simple yet transformative solution."

The next phase of research will also involve patient and public engagement to ensure the UniWee™ continues to meet the needs of those it serves.

Further information can be found in Dr. Thomas’ article in the Emergency Medicine Journal (EMJ) titled “Disposable female urinal bottle (the UniWee™) improves patient experience for immobile women with lower limb fractures.”