A newly-opened ward in Raigmore Hospital has been found to increase patient flow.
The post-acute ward opened towards the end of 2018 and brings together patients requiring that little bit of additional support to prepare them for heading to their homes.
The ward also allows for social elements where people can eat and socialise at a table in their room rather than their bedside.
Pyjamas are also encouraged to be used for bed time only while situated in the post-acute ward.
Dr Allan MacDonald, consultant in medicine for older people for NHS Highland, explained that focussing on those who need that extra help has proved to be of benefit to patients and the hospital.
He said: “For most people requiring a hospital stay you come in, get treatment and you go home. However, some people can’t get straight home as their period of illness has left them not as good on their feet or less able to do what they need to be at home. This can happen to anyone but is more common in older people
“As a team we are passionate about getting people home as soon as possible. Our patients on this ward are no longer acutely unwell which gives us more time to focus on them and get them ready to go home.
“By giving that extra help we are improving their experience as a patient, and also helping improve patient flow throughout the hospital. Feedback from patients and their families has been positive as has the response from the rest of the hospital.”
