Hospital starts work to enhance privacy for patients on specialist wards

The first phase, which is expected to be completed in November, will see the development of inpatients’ ward A1 and a day case suite.

This will feature eight single rooms with en-suite facilities, a two-bedded room with en-suite facilities, and two four-bedded bays, which will have toilet and shower rooms opposite.

The oncology and haematology day case suite will provide an area of 16 chairs and five beds and one cubicle with en-suite facilities.

The suite will allow patients to have more privacy, and the nurse station and clinical preparation area will be located centrally to allow staff to have good visibility of patients while they are being treated.

The second phase will see similar improvements and the refurbishment of the old D1 inpatient area.

Debbie Tansley, manager of A1 and the Macmillan suite, said: “The refurbishment will almost triple the size of the current Macmillan Suite, eventually being able to treat up to 22 patients, and facilities will include reclining electric chairs and beds designed for those patients needing a little extra support.

“The new day case facility will promote patient privacy and dignity, whilst also encouraging a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for patients.

“It will provide patients with a modern and relaxed environment with up to date facilities, and also provide a garden area for patients – a luxury we do not currently have.”