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 Most
patients are not really able to appreciate all of the little extras
built into the new Intensive Care Unit at Saint Joseph Health Center
when they first arrive, but they usually do notice before they leave--especially
if they've been in the ICU before.
Ralph Haag is one of the patients who did notice
during his stay last spring. "They were wheeling me in, and
I was so impressed! It was like a hotel suite." Haag was most
impressed with the natural light coming into the spacious unit--from
the huge windows in each patient room and from skylights over the
nursing station. "I really liked that I could see light. It's
a lift," says Haag. "A nice new place just lifts your
spirits." It's more than just a psychological lift for patients.
Research has shown light really does help in recovery
and it helps staff. "The natural lighting really helps the
nurses. It's just warmer and cheerier," says Twila Buckner,
RN, MBA, director for critical care. "Some have even joked
that they need to wear sunglasses during their shifts."
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