Patients and families find technology and comfort at St. Peter Hospital's Critical Care Unit

If you were to observe a day in Providence St. Peter Hospital's 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 critical care unit, offering faster service for patients. The unit's new design offers many benefits, as well.

Caring and Comfort
Rooms were designed with patient and family comfort in mind. Soft colors, improved lighting and strategically placed work stations ensure a more peaceful atmosphere.

Each of the 21 patient rooms is private, featuring glass doors an an outside view window. The rooms are larger than before, 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.