Ward 14 has completed its successful move into Ward 18 at Northern Hospital Epping in the Main Ward Block.

The move forms part of Stage 2 of the Northern Hospital Expansion Project.

Jacqui Harper, Ward 18 Nurse Unit Manager, said the completed move was “such a relief for all staff.”

“The move to Ward 18 now gives us a settled feeling. Although it took a bit of planning and time for renovations, staff really love the new space,” Jacqui said.

“When the other wards in the Main Ward Block moved, Ward 18 was closed to have the carpet removed and lino installed. Painting was attended to, and the Rauland Nurse Call system was installed.”

“Colin Newman from Supply organised our storerooms and ensured we were ready to open with all of the stock and equipment required. Kathryn Bartho, Director Operational Readiness, assisted with the re-training for the Rauland system, cleaning of the Ward 18 space and the move.”

Jacqui said the new look of Ward 18 and the completed move meant staff were not spread over two different wards and patients were benefiting from bigger rooms.

“The new clinical handsets make communication in the big space easier, the staff now have a designated break room and the patient rooms are now more spacious and bright, and the overall ward seems quieter,” she said.

“I would like to thank Kathryn, Colin and Amy Freeman, Clinical Nurse Specialist, for their assistance with getting the ward ready for the move. The PSA cleaning team did a great job getting the ward ready. Also, the team on move day, as it ran really well and all patients had been moved up to Ward 18 by 10 am.”

Kathryn Bartho, Director Operational Readiness, said all the teams involved did an amazing job in preparing for the move.

“The move day went exceptionally well due to our thorough planning and preparation,” Kathryn said.

“It was a great collaboration and a lot of hard work from Engineering, Capital and the Operational Teams, and the exceptional efforts from Ward 18 staff. Special mention to Jacqui and Amy (CNS) and Ivana, Ward Clerk, Colin in Supply, Sarah and the PSA cleaning team.”

“We also received valuable support on move day from Pathology, Food Services and Education. I am so proud of everyone involved in the preparation and the move day – it shows how well we can all work together.”

Featured image: Jacqui Harper, Ward 18 Nurse Unit Manager (far right front), with Ward 18 staff.