The need is critical: 5 Reasons why we need a new ICU at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital

Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH) has been providing exemplary care to patients with severe, life-threatening illnesses and injuries in the current Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for 50 years. When you need this level of care, it is critical the ICU has the latest medical equipment and a state-of-the-art space to accommodate it. The current ICU at NRGH is challenged to handle the growing needs of patients, medical equipment, staff, and family members in our community.

The time has come to expand and modernize the ICU at NRGH. As part of the $33 million cost to build a new ICU, the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation needs to raise a minimum of $5 million for all the new medical equipment.

To support the new ICU, please donate to the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation today.

Why is it critical we build a new ICU? Here are five reasons:

1. The existing ICU is 50 years old

Built in 1970, NRGH has outgrown its current ICU. An independent report identified it as among the oldest ICUs in British Columbia and one of the most in need of expansion in all of Canada. The ICU is an essential component of healthcare delivery across our entire hospital for patients and the staff who care for them.

2. NRGH medical teams need modernized equipment

Despite the physical challenges of the current ICU, NRGH’s ICU ranks near the top nationally for positive patient health outcomes. This is a testament to the skill and dedication of the ICU team. A modern space equipped with the latest medical equipment will enable them to continue delivering this exceptional level of care for years to come.

3. NRGH patient care and comfort

Patients in the ICU have severe, life-threatening illnesses and injuries, such as heart attacks, physical trauma, and major infections. These patients are the sickest of the sick, requiring constant, close monitoring around the clock with the concentrated support from a team of specialized medical staff. A new ICU with larger patient rooms will provide greater comfort and privacy while they receive this critical care.

4. Support for patients’ loved ones

When a family member is admitted to the ICU, it is a very stressful situation. It is important that there is not only the latest technology to provide the best care possible, but also consideration for the patient’s loved ones. In addition to medical equipment, the new ICU will have a welcoming area for visitors and private consultation rooms for families to speak with the attending healthcare team.

5. Our community needs are growing

NRGH’s ICU is one of the busiest ICUs on Vancouver Island. It serves all the communities north of the Malahat, which is home to more than 400,000 residents. It is also one of only two designated hospitals on the Island to care for COVID-19 patients. This means that never before in our region’s history has an ICU expansion been as critical as it is now and for years to come.

Watch the video to learn more about this critical project for our community or click here.

We are in desperate need to expand and modernize the ICU. Your support is critical.

Please donate today. Thank you!