A revamped emergency department has been officially opened at one of the Sunshine Coast’s biggest hospitals.
The redeveloped ED at Nambour General Hospital includes 12 more beds. It has 44 beds in total, including acute, short-stay and ‘fast-track’ beds, as well as three resuscitation bays, which will help staff manage growing numbers of presentations.
It also features a dedicated acute treatment zone for children. This includes a procedure room that will assist in improving children’s ED experience.
A new triage area includes private assessment rooms, which will help improve patient flow, while also offering patients more discretion when needed.
Since opening in mid-June, more than 8500 patients, including 1000 children, have been treated in the new ED.
The ED is the last major section to be opened in the $86 million hospital redevelopment. Other completed areas include the new medical imaging department, new same-day rehabilitation unit and mental health wards.
The redevelopment has almost doubled the number of beds at the hospital to 255.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles said the revamped emergency department was needed.
“We are committed to delivering better healthcare and this new state-of-the-art ED is doing just that,” he said.
“Nambour is expected to grow 11 per cent by 2036, and so we are building a hospital that will service the community needs now, and as it continues to grow.”
Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said the new ED would help cater to a booming population in the area.
“This is an investment in the future health of our growing region,” he said.
“The residents of the northern and hinterland areas of the Sunshine Coast deserve access to quality healthcare, and they will now be able to access emergency care in a modern, fit-for-purpose ED closer to home.
“When medical or traumatic emergencies happen, residents will have peace of mind knowing this modern, strategically designed emergency department is nearby.”
Sunshine Coast Health chief executive Dr Peter Gillies said the new ED would make a significant difference.
“With our emergency departments busier than ever, the upgraded and expanded facility at Nambour is helping our frontline teams tackle the growing demand,” he said.
“Our hardworking staff can provide care with the latest technology and equipment at their fingertips, in an up-to-date environment.
“We know it’s a stressful time for residents when they need to come to our emergency departments, so we are pleased this fresh new facility will improve the experience for those coming through our doors.”
