SMH celebrates the completion of their Level 2 ICU
[New Tecumseth – January 20, 2021] Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) is celebrating the completion of its Level 2 ICU, now called the High Acuity Unit (HAU). This is a milestone that the staff are very proud of as the construction was halted on the project last spring due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the competing demands, the staff and leaders at SMH continued with the project with contractors in July and are thrilled with the outcome.
Since March, 2020 SMH has had four inpatient beds in their Medical/Surgical Unit designated as Level 2 ICU beds to care for their highest acuity patients. The newly renovated space will provide the right environment, in their considerably dated infrastructure, to ensure optimal care for their patients.
“I am incredibly proud of our team of staff who continued to manage this project amongst many competing demands during the pandemic,” says Jody Levac, President and CEO, SMH. “This is a significant improvement to our facility as we wait for the redevelopment of our Hospital. Within our dated infrastructure we will continue to strive to enhance the patient experience until we receive an approval from the Ministry to move forward with revitalizing our Hospital,” he adds.
Once final testing and approvals are complete, the hospital anticipates their first patient will be admitted to the new unit in early February.
“We’ve renovated our existing space to accommodate the current standards including the technology and equipment required to care for patients needing high acuity care,” says Carrie Jeffreys, VP Clinical Services & Chief Nursing Executive, SMH. “Our staff will continue to care for these patients, but in a space that is optimal for their care and recovery. South Simcoe community members will continue to receive the care they need, close to home,” she adds.
The Stevenson Memorial Hospital Foundation is fundraising to support additional costs related to the build, including equipment and technology. To donate towards this important cause, please visit www.transformingstevenson.ca and click on ‘Level 2 ICU'.
Want to see the new unit at SMH? Virtual Tour of Level 2 ICU
