In today’s ever evolving health care landscape, the critical care environment faces unprecedented challenges. St John of God Geelong Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) caregivers frequently care for patients who need intensive monitoring and treatment for life-threatening illnesses or serious injuries, often requiring round-the-clock care from a dedicated team of specialist doctors and critical care nurses. It is crucial that this exceptional level of care can also continue to be matched by equally exceptional facilities and equipment.
Fortunately, thanks to the generous support of The Percy Baxter Charitable Trust (through Perpetual Trustees), the hospital has recently procured new state-of-the-art patient beds for the ICU. This new equipment promises to enhance patient mobility, expedite recovery and improve overall patient and caregiver wellbeing, demonstrating the profound impact that donor contributions can have for both patients and caregivers.
Austin Paterson, Member of the Advisory Board for Percy Baxter Charitable Trust, said that the Trust supports Australian charities in the social welfare and medical research sectors, with an aim to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for local communities.
“The Percy Baxter Charitable Trust has a long and proud legacy of supporting health care in the region, and it is wonderful to know that this grant will help to make a difference,” said Austin.
"We hope to enable caregivers to deliver their best work and provide support to patients at St John of God Geelong Hospital during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives."
Sharnie McAuliffe, ICU Nurse Unit Manager at St John of God Geelong Hospital, said she hopes the beds will support the delivery of outstanding care for seriously ill patients in the ICU.
“The new beds are designed to enhance patient comfort and safety which is essential for compassionate care,” Sharnie said.
“With features like adjustable positioning and pressure relieving systems, they can improve patient mobility and reduce the risk of pressure areas in the critically unwell. This allows caregivers to focus more on patient care, interaction and support. Additionally, a more comfortable environment can help alleviate anxiety in patients.”
Sharnie also reflected that high quality equipment supports better health outcomes for the community.
“Not having access to new equipment can lead to poorer patient outcomes and increased complications. Health care professionals rely on high quality equipment to do their jobs effectively. Lack of access to modern equipment can reduce efficiency, increase frustration and decrease staff morale,” Sharnie said.
Sharnie expressed her gratitude to the donors who helped to make the new equipment a reality at St John of God Geelong Hospital.
“Your contribution is more than just a financial gift, it is a gift of comfort, dignity and improved care for our patients,” she said.
“Your generosity has directly impacted the quality of care we can offer and for that we are deeply grateful. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our patients, their families and our ICU team.”
(Pictured in banner image, L-R): St John of God Geelong Hospital Director of Corporate and Service Development Taanya Widdicombe, Austin Paterson, Sharnie McAuliffe, St John of God Geelong Hospital CEO Stephen Roberts, and Gillian Hill of Percy Baxter Charitable Trust.