James Paget University Hospital nurse praises concept ward

The orthopaedic trauma team moved from their former base into the new £15m concept ward at the James Paget University Hospital on June 8.

Senior trauma and orthopaedic sister Sue Pinkney said she couldn't be happier with the move.

Sister Sue Pinkney said she has been impressed with the concept ward's facilities. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

"Already, patients feel more settled and the noise reduction in the main hallway is very noticeable," she said.

The new ward contains 20 single-bed side rooms with en-suite facilities and two bays with four staggered beds to ensure patient privacy is upheld.

In the main corridor, the central nurses' station has been replaced with a series of 'touch points' where they can look into several rooms from one place.

One of the single side rooms in the new concept ward at the James Paget Hospital. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)

Storage and cleaning rooms have been moved off the main hallway to reduce infection risks as well as the traffic between patients and staff.

Sister Pinkney thanked her team for the transition onto the ward.

She said: "We have an excellent team, and I am very impressed."

Paul Morris, chief nurse, shows Dame Ruth May, chief nursing officer for England, pictures of the building of the new concept ward at the James Paget Hospital. Picture - Denise Bradley) (Image: Denise Bradley)

James Paget chief nurse Paul Morris said the concept ward has been well received by patients and visitors.

"Patients have a lot more control of their environment here," he said.

"From the day room, where patients can have their meals and mingle with others, down to controlling the mood lighting scheme in their rooms.

"It's a real different dimension.

"And it is an exciting time to see this concept ward in action."

Groundworks are currently being carried out at the new concept ward's garden areas. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

Finishing touches continue to be added to the concept ward, including the installation of TVs and garden areas for patients and staff.

The ward will have a lifespan of 50 years and will form part of a new health campus which includes a proposed Diagnostic Assessment Centre, housing the latest X-Ray, CT and MRI scanners.

The orthopaedic ward's former home in Ward 6 is currently undergoing remedial repairs.

At the end of May, the government confirmed that the James Paget will receive full funding to be completely rebuilt by 2030.