New recovery unit offers best technology, comfort for patients

AU Medical Center unveils a new post-anesthesia care unit with a ribbon cutting Monday.

“The new PACU was designed by nurses to provide the best technology and comfort to the patient,” said Allen Kelly, assistant vice president of Perioperative Services.

The renovation adds 7 new bays for a total of 25 anesthesia and surgical recovery rooms. The new unit is also positioned to improve flow for patients coming from the operating room.

“The design reduces noise while providing personal comforts like HD television for each patient,” Kelly said. “The new equipment booms allow the nurse to provide all of the necessary medical gases, electrical and communication ports to meet each patients’ unique needs. The entire design was developed with patients and their safety in mind.”

AU Medical Center physicians and staff will celebrate the opening of the unit, which will begin seeing patients Wednesday, with a ribbon cutting and reception from 3 to 5 p.m., Monday, Nov. 14, on the first floor of the Sydenstricker Wing of AU Medical Center, 1120 15th St., Health Sciences Campus.

The relocation of the PACU frees up space for the next phase of construction on a new cardio and vascular surgery suite. The hybrid suite consolidates radiographic technology, like in cardiac catheterization labs, in an operating room, allowing for new advanced, minimally invasive procedures. Construction ends May 2017.