Generous donations supporting our patients
Northern Health has recently received important equipment to continue providing high level care to our patients. We take this opportunity to thank our supporters for their contributions through the Northern Health Foundation.
The Batten Foundation generously funded the purchase of three Panda Warmers for our Northern Hospital Epping Birthing Suite.
“We are very appreciative of the generous donation by the Batten Foundation,” said Zeyneb Gokler, Midwifery Unit Manager, Birthing Suite and Maternity Assessment Centre.
“Panda Warmers are critical equipment in providing resuscitation of the newborn. Currently, we have four Panda Warmers and with the addition of a further three Panda Warmers, staff will not have to move the equipment in an emergency situation. Having access to this equipment means there will be no delay in resuscitation management at the time of birth. Safe care is what we thrive on and this will give us an opportunity to develop and extend our level of care.”
Three highback chairs, which were funded by Bridgewater Lake Retirement Estate Residents Village, were donated to Ward 4.
Renee O’Rourke, Acting Nurse Unit Manager Ward 4, thanked Bridgewater Lake Retirement Estate Residents for their generous donation.
“The brand new highback chairs will aid in the care of our vulnerable patients. The chairs are orthopaedic that are height adjustable with moulded seats and contoured backrests to provide additional care, support and comfort,” she said.
“These chairs are important pieces of furniture for our patient’s health and wellbeing, as they promote good posture and back support to assist in reducing pain and encourage deep breathing.”
The chairs can be adjusted to each patient’s needs by trained staff who can assist with mobility and encourage patient independence of getting in and out of the chair.
“A patient who is comfortable is more likely to sit out of bed. This in turn encourages social interaction, dietary intake, retains mobility independence and improves respiratory function. Ensuring our patients are safe and comfortable is a priority on Ward 4 and the kindness of the residents and staff from Bridgewater Lake Retirement Estate has contributed to our vision,” Renee said.
Our Oncology and Medical Day Unit received a blanket warmer, funded through Northern Health Foundation Patron, Bev Carman’s CANDO.
Melissa Gwynne, Nurse Unit Manager Oncology and Medical Day Unit, said the blanket warmer would be used by patients while receiving treatment.
“Having treatment and sitting in a chair for up to six hours can become tiresome and we want to help in any way to keep our patients comfortable,” she said.
“Having a nice warm blanket, especially during these cold winter months, really improves the comfort and wellbeing of our patients, especially those undergoing scalp cooling as part of their treatment.”
The Oncology and Medical Day Unit now have two blanket warmers, which have both been purchased through funds from our very generous donors.
“Bev has always done so much each year to raise funds for cancer services at Northern Health. She is a great role model in our community and I thank her very much for her contribution,” Melissa said.
Thank you to all our generous donors and patrons for your support!
Featured image shows Bruce Batten and daughter Emily.