Patients and staff have praised GV Health’s Wanyarra for its ongoing support and services to those in the community suffering from mental health conditions.
The acute psychiatric inpatient unit recently implemented an initiative called Safewards to create a safer environment for staff and patients.
The initiative involves individualised care plans tailored to a patient’s needs and preferences.
“The utilisation of this model has allowed us to deliver a more patient-centred approach, resulting in a higher quality of care and improved consumer experiences,” Wanyarra nurse unit manager Benjamin Fletcher said.
“It also strongly focuses on preventing and managing aggressive behaviour, reducing restrictive practices and fostering a more therapeutic environment.”
Patient Sandra Britton praised the care she received while being treated at Wanyarra under the Safewards initiative.
“The doctors and nurses at Wanyarra were fantastic ... I can’t explain how much their reassurance, guidance and care meant to me when I needed it most,” she said.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the wonderful people who have cared for and treated me [at Wanyarra].”
Mr Fletcher said the initiative involved placing signage throughout the unit to make it easier for patients to navigate and for staff to maintain a safe and efficient environment.
“The new signage has been well received by both our staff and patients and has contributed to a positive atmosphere, improving the overall experience for everyone at Wanyarra,” he said.
In addition to Safewards, Mr Fletcher said Wanyarra continued to improve the care and experiences of patients to reflect the community’s needs.
This includes recreational therapy program expansions, improved patient and family engagement and advancements in telehealth appointments.