14 September 2010
More than 20 elderly patients have been transferred to McKinstry Ward at Overdale Hospital while their current home, Rosewood House, is refurbished.
Facilities at Rosewood House are being upgraded thanks to funds from the fiscal stimulus fund. 26 patients were moved during the weekend. This significant transfer of patients was led by Rosewood House team manager, Sharon Pentony, who worked with nursing and domestic staff, porters, the ambulance service and St John’s Ambulance to ensure a safe and comfortable move for the patients.
Rosewood House is divided into 2 main ward areas, Oak Ward and Maple Ward. The patients all require long-term nursing care for conditions such as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. For refurbishment work to be carried out safely it was essential that half of the patients were relocated to an alternative location. Preliminary work was carried out on McKinstry Ward to ensure the environment met the needs of this patient group for the 44 weeks that it is estimated it will take to upgrade Rosewood House.
The ward team have worked closely with families and friends prior to the move to ensure that any concerns could be addressed. Last Wednesday there was a coffee morning at McKinstry Ward to give people the opportunity to see the environment where loved ones would be living.
Directorate Manger of the Mental Health Service, Ian Dyer, said “Moving large groups of patients who have significant levels of nursing need is always a logistical challenge. However, it has been necessary to ensure we are able to upgrade Rosewood House. I would like to thank all the staff and families who were involved for ensuring the move took place smoothly, safely and with dignity.”
The work being carried out to Rosewood House includes improving fire safety and reducing the risks of spread of infection. The flooring and lighting will also improve as well as the general appearance of the environment.
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