The Women’s and Children’s Hospital has announced the opening of its redeveloped Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) which will provide improved care and support for the State’s most vulnerable babies and their families.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Stephen Wade said the upgraded NICU was part of the Hospital’s continuing commitment to maintain first-class care for its patients.
“This upgrade is the second and final stage of the $14 million Neonatal Nurseries Redevelopment, which not only improves care for our premature and ill babies, but also lifts support for their families during this difficult experience,” Mr Wade said.
He said six new rooms would provide improved infection control and more space and privacy for families, with the capacity for one room to operate as a dual space for twins.
He said the new facility included a cot space which operated as an additional negative pressure room; a multi-purpose room with a bed and ensuite for families and carers with babies in palliative care; and a new staff base.
Chief Executive of the Women’s and Children’s Health Network (WCHN), Lindsey Gough, said the works were part of a $50 million project to upgrade the Hospital.
“We are committed to maintaining excellent care and workspaces for our patients and staff and this redevelopment is just another part of that process,” Ms Gough said.
“Our hospital continues to invest in infrastructure to better support the health and wellbeing of all South Australians and, thanks to these sustainment works, we will be able to continue to provide the highest quality care while we plan for the new hospital.”
She said patients and families started to move into the new NICU space from last week (19 July).
More information on the Hospital’s Neonatal Nursery Redevelopment can be accessed at this PS News link.
