Gladstone Hospital’s Transit Lounge has made a big difference to hospital patients. From left: Brittany, Maddie, Carol and Rinu are pictured in the comfortable space.
Summary
Gladstone Hospital’s new Transit Lounge is improving patient flow and experience, supporting patients in their discharge from hospital quickly and safely.
Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Lisa Blackler said the lounge was opened in early November, after being included in the government’s first phase of a statewide hospital transit lounge expansion.
This program was designed to reduce ramping and support faster access for patients’ hospital admissions.
Gladstone’s Transit Lounge has eight treatment spaces and supports more than 130 people each month.
The lounge is conveniently located near the hospital’s inpatient ward, and it is a relaxed environment with comfortable chairs, a TV, and tea and coffee facilities.
“This space is perfect for patients who have been medically cleared for discharge but need to wait in hospital before leaving,” Ms Blackler said.
“This could be medications, crutches or equipment, final test results, or to ensure referrals or follow-up appointments have been arranged.
“If a family member has driven a long way to collect their loved one, they are welcome to enjoy a rest and a cuppa before their trip home.”
In the past, most patient discharges happened in the afternoon, but the Transit Lounge meant this could be brought forward to the morning, reducing the bottleneck and ensuring faster access to hospital beds on the ward.
“This is all part of our commitment to ensuring we have the right patient in the right place at the right time.”
The Transit Lounge is staffed by nurses and open seven days a week.