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A new look for Pediatric PACU

by Cornelia Spitz, R.N.
Pediatric PACU, Rutledge Tower
For several months, a committee has been evaluating new ways to improve patient satisfaction within Ambulatory Surgery. Scores are obtained from the post operative surveys that are sent to patients (families). Jennifer Teston, R.N., shared an idea about improving the Pediatric Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) by brightening it up with artwork. Several initiatives are on the table right now, and some will take more time in planning. The idea's intent was to engage employees in painting designs in the unit’s ceiling tiles.

Top photo: Registered nurse David Wendorf shows some of the tiles that he drew and painted. Many of the tiles have already been replaced while others are still being completed. Hospital employees are encouraged to stop by and see their new look.

Left photo: Registered nurse Jennifer Teston paints a tile that will be installed in the Pediatric PACU.

Pediatric PACU is one of the places that recovering patients (mostly children) visit first, so Teston was excited to get things started. She spoke about it to the area's patient satisfaction committee and area nurse manager. She obtained the ceiling tiles through building maintenance, and took up a monetary collection from co-workers to help purchase paints. During the holidays, Teston took the tiles home and painted several designs on them with the help of family members. During the first week in January, she brought in extra tiles and enlisted the help of co-workers in painting.

Teston installs one of the tiles in the ceiling.

Friday, Jan. 15, 2010


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