Construction Begins on 21-bed Telemetry Unit
The next chapter in Mercy Hospital of Folsom’s expansion story is underway with the construction of a new 21-bed Telemetry Unit that will be located in space below the hospital’s 25-all private room Emergency Department. Slated to open in spring 2011, the $15 million project will expand the hospital’s current inpatient bed capacity with the addition of 21 private rooms and the latest electronic monitoring equipment.
The unit has been designed to meet the needs of patients who need less than intensive care, but still need to be closely monitored. Currently, Mercy Folsom provides telemetry monitoring to inpatients in the hospital’s Medical Surgical Unit. This new unit will expand these capabilities in a centralized location.
Telemetry allows patients to receive continuous electronic monitoring. In the case of Mercy Folsom’s new unit, patient data will be transmitted electronically from the patient to a centralized nursing station.
The most common functions measured are heart rhythm and rate, using an electrocardiogram (EKG), but patients can also be monitored for changes in blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygenation and temperature.
If a patient experiences a change in vital signs, medical experts can address it immediately, either by correcting the problem, summoning the appropriate specialist, or transferring the patient to the ICU.
The 21-bed unit will be located on the hospital’s ground floor so patients can easily move around and even go outside—along with their portable telemetry box—to further their own recovery. “Each room will also have a soothing decor with lots of natural light, which is a very important part of the healing process,” says Amy Hooper, RN, Senior Director of Acute Care Services.
“We are committed to continually expanding our capabilities to better serve our community,” says Don Hudson, Hospital President. “The new telemetry unit will not only be a state-of-the-art unit, it will also be a much-needed expansion to our total bed capacity.”
