Psychiatric care unit gets welcome facelift
A new fundraising campaign aims to make recovery more comfortable for the most vulnerable and at-risk mental health patients.
The Open Minds Project just launched by the Taranaki Health Foundation wants to raise $180,000 for enhancements to the intensive psychiatric care unit of the adult mental health ward, Te Puna Waiora, at Taranaki Base Hospital. More than 500 people use the facility each year.
Renovations to the building had already begun, said Wendy Langlands, Taranaki District Health Board clinical services manager for mental health, addictions and older people.
A new floor plan has been designed to normalise the area by making it less clinical and more comfortable. The design allows for more spaces and separate areas for different patient needs, helping to protect the dignity of patients and their whanau.
‘‘We are trying to make it a 2017 fit for purpose – modern times for modern needs.
The ultimate goal in the intensive care unit is we are shifting away from a prison-like environment and to a welcoming, therapeutic environment that supports engagement between patients and staff.’’
Improvements include soothing colour, new carpets and comforting bedrooms with safe mirrors and wardrobes. ‘‘They are designed to best mimic a home-like environment, which does make people feel more valued.’’
But further enhancements over and above basic services will further help with recovery and this is where The Open Minds Project comes in. Taranaki Health Foundation general manager Bry Kopu said funds raised would go towards improving outdoor courtyard spaces, a fitness zone, appropriate furnishings, artwork, therapeutic and special sensory modulation resources and technology for the unit.
‘‘What the foundation hopes to bring is an added level of comfort to improve the environment,’’ she said.
Kopu will be running a competition for artwork to best suit adolescent patients and will also be seeking high-resolution nature photographs of Taranaki for sensory modulation screens. She is also keen to engage with businesses and community service organisations, so people can contact her at Bry.Kopu@tdhb.org.nz.