Pre-operative rooms are transformed thanks to a generous legacy donation

Staff from the Postbridge day surgery and overnight recovery unit gathered on 21 March to celebrate the unveiling of two beautifully transformed pre-operative rooms for patients.

The idea to transform the rooms started over two years ago when Karen Albiston, Senior Health Care Assistant, had a dream to make the spaces more calming and comfortable to all patients but particularly for those who have dementia or high anxiety. The team were delighted when the Plymouth Hospital Charity team got in touch to tell them of the kind donation left to the unit and works were soon underway.
The wishes of the donor were to use the money to the benefit of the patients which fitted with Karen’s idea perfectly, and so the Postbridge team commissioned Plymouth artist, Ellie Johnson, better known as Mrs Murals to transform the rooms into tranquil spaces, and she did just that.

 

The final fit out of the rooms will have comfortable seating, dementia friendly puzzles and water colouring books, soothing bubble lamps, and an entertainment station.

Julie Overnell, Senior Sister,  thanked everyone involved in the project and said: “it has taken almost two years to turn this idea into a reality. These rooms will make a huge difference to our patients, especially those with dementia or high anxiety and I just want to thank everybody involved from start to finish.  I would love to see all of our patient rooms throughout the hospital transformed eventually.”

Corinne Smith, Charity Manager said "When someone remembers the hospital in their Will, the impact of their gift can have far reaching benefits for so many people. It is an honour and a privilege to receive these gifts, and we do our best to collaborate with the donor's loved ones to determine how best to put the money to use, always keeping in mind their wishes. We hope that by creating this welcoming space for our surgery patients, we will improve their experience with us and help them recover more quickly."

Ellie Johnson, Mrs Murals said: “Working in the hospital has given me real insight into the impressive level of professionalism and outstanding service that NHS provide. I am in awe of the incredible work done on a daily basis by NHS staff. I hope that the artwork will enable staff to provide a calm, positive environment to help patients before surgery.”