Carried out as part of the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) rolling safety programme, these essential works have been combined with a significant improvement programme designed to enhance the experience of patients and families and improve treatment times.
The ward has been remodelled to create a brighter, more welcoming environment while also improving patient flow through the department with dedicated assessment areas.
The redesign includes bespoke artwork throughout the ward, created by local artist Nicola Murray Woods. Younger patients will be welcomed by colourful under-the-sea and woodland-themed murals, helping to create a more child-friendly and homely environment for children and their families during their stay in hospital.
The needs of teenage patients have also been carefully considered, with a dedicated area designed for adolescents and a quiet room providing a more suitable space for older young people.
A dedicated area has also been created for the Paediatric Assessment Unit, enabling children and young people to be assessed more quickly and directed to the most appropriate care pathway.
Dawn Collins, Chief Nurse at The QEH, said: “We are delighted to be reopening Rudham ward and welcoming patients, families and staff back into a greatly improved environment.
“The refurbishment has transformed the ward, creating a more welcoming and supportive space for children and young people of all ages, while also helping us improve the flow of patients through the department.
“The feedback from colleagues who have been involved in the project has been extremely positive, and we look forward to seeing the benefits for patients and families.”
Laura Morgan, Deputy Head of Nursing for Women and Children at The QEH, said: “After spending the last year based on Wolferton ward, it’s fantastic to finally be back in Rudham and see the vision for the refurbished ward become a reality.
“The new environment has been designed with children and young people of all ages in mind, from the colourful artwork and child-friendly spaces for younger children to the dedicated area and quiet room for teenagers. Having a dedicated space for the Paediatric Assessment Unit will also make a real difference to the way we care for children and young people, helping us assess them more efficiently and get them to the right place for their care.
“We’re incredibly proud of the new ward and can’t wait to welcome our patients and families back. It’s been a long year for the team while we’ve been based on Wolferton ward, and while we’ve worked incredibly well together, we’re all very pleased to be coming home. We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life and create such a wonderful environment for our children and young people. I’m sure it will be appreciated for many years to come.”
The ward team will relocate back to the original space for Rudham ward, on the first floor of the main hospital building in area 7. Services have been based Wolferton ward since last year while the works were carried out.
Patients and visitors attending the ward should follow the signage in place across the hospital site. Visit http://www.qehkl.nhs.uk to view a map ahead of your visit or ask for support at the main reception desk should you need directions on arrival.
Ends. Notes to editors; For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216. For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
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