Ocean Medical Center Opens New
State-Of-The-Art Geriatric Unit to Meet Patients’ Needs

When it comes to delivering optimal acute care to our region’s seniors, Ocean Medical Center is right on target with its focus on geriatric health needs. Growing alongside its expanding senior population, Ocean Medical Center has just opened a state-of-the-art medical-surgical unit, adding 40 beds and a designation as an Acute Care for Elders (ACE) Unit.

[L-R] Regina Foley, R.N., vice president and chief nursing executive; Jason Taylor; Ellen Barrington, R.N., nurse manager; John K. Lloyd, FACHE, president and CEO of Meridian Health; Richard Epstein, R. Ph. vice president of Operations; Gordon Litwin, Esq., chairperson of Meridian Health Board of Trustees; and W. Peter Daniels, CHE, president of Ocean Medical Center, prepare to cut the ribbon to open Ocean Medical Center’s new ACE unit.

"This technologically advanced unit is designed specifically to meet our patients’ requirements for care, comfort, and overall safety," says W. Peter Daniels, CHE, president of Ocean Medical Center. "I am extremely proud of the entire team who has worked toward the opening of our new unit, and am sure it will have a tremendous impact on our community members. We’ve received tremendous positive feedback since the recent opening."

Healing For Both Mind and Body
Boasting a comfortable and modern décor, the newest patient unit offers subtle features designed to enhance the healing environment. "Every little detail counts," says Ellen Barrington, R.N., nurse manager of the ACE unit. "From the type of lighting, to the color choices, to the design and care of the flooring, this unit is the optimal healing environment and is especially beneficial for our elderly patients."

The new unit features eight private rooms and 16 rooms that have a capacity for two patients at a time. In addition, an activity room anchors one hallway, providing an opportunity for patients who are ready to leave their rooms to socialize.

ACE Saves Lives
Barrington also explains that potentially lifesaving equipment is tucked away behind doors and even wall hangings. "There are hightech considerations that go into establishing a unit like this one. Certain illnesses and health conditions, like dementia, incontinence, and chronic wounds, are more prevalent among an elderly population, so we prepare to handle those situations with specialized equipment and easy access."

Caring For Seniors
The nurses who work in the new unit have undergone specialized training to meet the needs of geriatric patients. This training is part of a national initiative based out of the John Hartford Institute at New York University, which focuses on the unique health care needs of geriatric patients.

Ocean Medical Center's focus on seniors doesn't end with the new ACE unit though, according to Barrington. "The commitment we have to seniors extends beyond the new unit," she notes. "When it comes to providing health care to the older-adult population, the protocols and training of our ACE unit nurses are shared throughout the hospital, ensuring the best possible experiences and outcomes throughout the Medical Center."