 Patients and Families Find Technology and Comfort in New Critical Care Unit
If you were to observe a day in Providence St. Peter Hospital's new critical care unit, this would be typical of what you might see.
Advanced Technology
A patient is rushed from an emergency surgery to the critical care unit. With the help of an automated ceiling lift, the patient is transferred from the gurney to a bed. Nurses immediately attend to the patient.
The nurse call bell in the patient's room is linked to a cell phone the nurse carries, so patients and families can contact their nurse directly rather than being routed through a central nursing station.
Each nurse carries a special pager, called a crisis alert. If the patient experiences a sudden change in heart rhythm or blood pressure, it triggers an alarm signal on the pager. The nurse can check the pager from the palm of her hand to get an instant look at what is happening.
All of this technology is available in the hospital's new critical care unit, offering faster service for patients. The unit's new design offers many benefits, as well.
Caring and Comfort
"We wanted the critical care unit to provide a soothing, healing environment," said Diane Hamilton, MN. Diane has worked at Providence St. Peter for the past 23 years and recently became the new director of critical care.
Rooms were designed with patient and family comfort in mind. "We selected soft colors, improved the lighting and strategically placed the work stations to ensure a more peaceful atmosphere," Hamilton said.
Each of the 21 patient rooms is private, featuring glass doors an an outside view window. The rooms are larger, providing more space for visiting family members. The medical equipment is mobile, allowing easier access to the patient's bedside. A separate family waiting area includes a kitchen, restroom and saltwater aquarium. There is also a private consultation room where physicians can meet with families.
"We have achieved a wonderful balance, combining the latest in medical technology with key elements of comfort," said Hamilton.
This project is part of the hospital's Campus Renewal expansion. Contributions to Providence St. Peter Foundation will continue to help fund critical care nurse education, new equipment and furnishings for the unit.
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