Ipswich Hospital’s Gynaecology centre has undergone a major refurbishment to improve privacy and dignity for patients.

Both the emergency assessment unit and inpatient ward have been transformed.

Ward matron Hannah English said: “Coming to hospital for gynaecology treatment can be stressful and emotional and we hope the new environment will help women feel welcome and comfortable.”

Pictured left to right, Ward matron Hannah English, ultrasound advanced practitioner Gillian Stiff and head matron Karen Wolfe.

The ward (Stour Ward) is for both planned and emergency operations, including gynaecology cancer surgery. It has a new admissions lounge with a dedicated admissions nurse. When patients first arrive they have their weight, blood pressure and other checks carried out by the nurse and are then taken directly to Theatre. This means nurses on the ward do not have to juggle the admissions paperwork and can focus on caring for recovering patients.

The new ward also has private rooms for occasions when the bedside curtain does not provide enough privacy, a day room and a quiet room.

Head matron Karen Wolfe said: “These private spaces are so important for discussing sensitive issues with patients and their families.”

The unit, based on the fifth floor of the hospital’s tall Maternity block, has 18 nurses, six healthcare assistants and doctors based on the ward.