Summary
Rockhampton Hospital’s Emergency Department has expanded to improve access and flow for patients.
The relocated Orthopaedic Clinic has allowed the creation of a new Emergency Department Fast Track area with 12 treatment spaces, making way for more acute ED cubicles. This new space also includes its own reception and waiting areas.
Fast Track serves as a specialised area within the Emergency Department for treating non-complex cases that typically do not require hospital admissions. Common conditions treated here include sprains and strains, minor cuts, ear and tooth pain, respiratory infections, and superficial burns.
The old Fast Track space now has space for nine extra acute ED spaces, to improve access to care and improved patient flow. This space has capacity for seven beds, two recliner chairs, and an additional consultation room.
To support these new spaces, additional nurses and operational staff will be recruited.
Central Queensland Health Chief Executive Lisa Blackler said these extra treatment spaces would provide additional capacity for Rockhampton Hospital’s hard-working Emergency Department staff as the master plan for a long-term solution is finalised.
“I thank our dedicated team for continuing to work tirelessly every single day to provide great care to Central Queenslanders while facing unprecedented demand,” she said.
“These expansion projects are a vital step in equipping our team to provide the best possible care to our patients, both now and into the future.
“They will also strengthen Rockhampton ED’s ability to support smaller hospitals throughout Central Queensland by handling more complex cases and easing pressure on regional facilities.”