Palliative Care Inpatient Ward upgraded at Broken Hill Hospital
A wing of the Medical Ward at Broken Hill Health Service where palliative care inpatients receive care has been completely refurbished.
A total of 10 rooms have received new beds, new furniture and sleeping chairs for family members to stay overnight. A new kitchenette for patients and families has been installed along with new window blinds and bedding. The rooms and ward corridor has been freshly painted, with new artwork installed and increased privacy provided through new walls and screening Each room has new outdoor tables and chairs.
The work was funded by NSW Ministry of Health with a Palliative Care grant of $395,000.
Melissa Cumming, Program Director Cancer & Palliative Care Services at FWLHD, said the refurbishments have been very well received by family, patients and staff alike.
'The refurbishments are obviously of benefit to all patients and families, not only those receiving palliative care,' she said.
'Positive feedback from families and staff have included how clean, tidy and peaceful the unit is now and many have commented on how 'calming' the new artwork is.'
Ms Cumming said patients, families and staff have provided positive feedback on the new kitchenette and outdoor sitting areas in particular. 'They are grateful to be able to sit and enjoy the sun and fresh air, or share a coffee in the cafe space; a good change of scenery and not be 'stuck in a room',' she said.
She added families appreciate the café space to take some time out, and giving them time to regroup, a family space to catch up or exchange information between family members and not talk over the patient when not appropriate.
Families have also appreciated being able to bring in their loved one's favourite food and being able to refrigerate and heat things anytime of the day or night. One comment received: 'Mum wanted a cup of tea and toast at 3am and I was able to get that for her. It was her last meal'.
'We are very grateful to have been able to upgrade this very important inpatient area at Broken Hill Health Service and we are pleased the response has been so very positive from the patients, their families and the staff,' said Ms Cumming.