Patients recovering from surgery at The James Cook University Hospital are benefiting from a newly refurbished post anaesthetic care unit (PACU).
The unit cares for patients who are recovering from anaesthesia and major procedures that require closer monitoring and high nursing care initially post op.
Patients typically stay on the unit, which is in the heart of the hospital’s operating theatres, for a night or two following their operation.
Previously the unit, which opened in 2019, had room to care for up to five patients at one time.
But thanks to its recent expansion there is now space for eight beds, including four larger areas which can be used as critical care surge beds.
As well as benefiting from the larger space, patients are also benefiting from improved lighting and a series of large scenic light boxes.
Chrissie Cater, PACU ward manager, said: “We’re over the moon with how the ward looks, it’s going to make a huge difference for our patients and staff.”
“With a greater demand for the elective programme and bed capacity this new expanded unit will facilitate the demand. We are very proud of PACU and how the unit has developed over the last three years.
“We’ve gone from having quite a small unit that had no windows or natural light to having a big open space with several beautiful picture light boxes near each bed and a patient kitchen.
We take pride in the high-quality care we deliver and having a positive impact on a patient's journey through their surgery or treatment. Having this lovely environment to provide this care will enhance their experience and we are excited for the future as a team and for the future of the developing unit.”