A major refurbishment of the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) department at the Victoria Hospital has been completed.
The completion provides a modern and improved environment for both patients and staff, enhancing the overall experience and promoting well-being.
Amongst the significant improvements are:
• Enhanced comfort and light: The unit includes brand new windows, doors, and flooring, creating a brighter and more welcoming space. A completely new lighting system with LED lights further improves the ambience, especially in areas that previously lacked windows.
• Improved drainage and accessibility: Extensive work has addressed and replaced the previous drainage and sewage systems. Additionally, the entire floor has been replaced, creating a smoother and more accessible space for patients.
• Dedicated wellbeing room: The new space provides a comfortable and private setting for sensitive conversations between patients and healthcare professionals. This space features calming decor, including couches, photos, and flowers, to offer a non-clinical atmosphere for delivering or receiving important news.
• Improved patient flow: The refurbished department now connects directly to the theatres corridor, streamlining patient flow throughout the hospital.
During the refurbishment project, the ENT service was temporarily relocated to the tower block in what was previously an orthopaedic ward.
Director of property and asset management, Neil McCormick, said: “It is fair to say that ENT needed a programme of work, which was expedited as a result of an inspection by Healthcare Improvement Scotland last summer. However, we are delighted this work has now been completed and the project demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing a modern, comfortable, and supportive environment for both patients and staff.”
ENT service manager, Craig Easton, said: “In addition to the benefits for patients, the refurbishment also brings a positive impact for staff working in ENT. A new staff room provides a convenient space for breaks and relaxation, allowing them to unwind and recharge away from the clinical setting. The work has also seen the completion of a new recreational area outside the department. This dedicated space, laid with composite decking, allows staff to relax and enjoy the outdoors during breaks, which will be particularly useful during summer.
“Feedback from both staff and patients has already been extremely positive and we hope to make even more improvements moving forward.”
