Tenterfield Hospital boosted by new beds

17 August 2009

Staff and patients at Tenterfield Hospital have received an added level of comfort and safety through the recent purchase of 15 new beds.

The Emergency Department (ED) received one new bed that arrived just two weeks ago, and which was purchased through funds raised from the hospital ball held on 30 May, 2009.

At a cost of $11,000 the new ED bed operates under a hydraulic system that can take a weight of up to 300kg. The bed is designed specifically to reduce the need for moving a patient i.e. when taking mobile x-rays.

Tenterfield Health Service Manager Julie Kirk said the money raised was from the hard work of hospital staff and community support.

“The ball was organised by hospital staff and the community were invited to attend,” Ms Kirk said.

“Around 220 people supported the event with the money being raised through auctions and donations.

“We had tradespeople auctioning their services, local wineries donated part of the money they made through the sale wine on the night, door takings contributed, and of course the community really got behind the event.”

An additional 14 acute beds have also been purchased following an Occupational Health and Safety Risk Assessment.

The recommendations were acted upon immediately, with the new beds safer for staff to operate, as well as being more comfortable for patients.

The beds are all electronically operated and have improved mattresses for patient comfort. 

Ms Kirk has seen the new beds in use, with positive reports received from both staff and patients.

“Staff don’t have to wind-up the beds like the old ones. It’s all electronic, which has made life for staff much easier,” she said.

“Patients have also commented on the beds, which they all prefer to the old ones. These are much more comfortable and patients can adjust the beds by themselves.”

(Ref:) HNE-1960

Contact: Carisa Green

Phone: (02) 6767 7135