Upgraded facility improves care for cystic fibrosis patients

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Minister for Health Steven Miles met patient Darren Bullock and his children Alex and Abi at the upgraded cystic fibrosis unit at The Prince Charles Hospital.

An almost $3m upgrade to The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH) is giving patients with cystic fibrosis the best and safest care during hospital stays.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the new wards were up to the very best international standards, which was important for CF patients who may have to visit hospital frequently.Minister for Health Steven Miles said the full revamp included the construction of an additional six bathrooms, which means all 14 beds now have individual ensuites.

“We are committed to improving the health outcomes of Queenslanders, which is why we’ve taken action to address the concerns around sharing bathrooms due to the risk of cross-infection associated with cystic fibrosis,” Mr Miles said.

“We’ve also enhanced air quality for patients with a major upgrade to the air conditioning system and installed the latest technology to support the best nurse call systems available.

TPCH’s Director of the Adult Cystic Fibrosis Service Dr David Reid said CF patients have unique clinical requirements due to the nature of their condition.

“Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition resulting in chronic lung disease, poor nutrition and reduced life expectancy, although survival is increasing significantly and will continue to do so,” Dr Reid said.“People with cystic fibrosis are highly susceptible to bacterial infections, however with up to four admissions each year of as many as 14 days or more, they also share a risk of cross-infection between patients.

“In a hospital setting, the opportunity for patient-to-patient contact naturally increases, particularly if the individual is in hospital for a prolonged period.”

TPCH’s Adult CF Centre, opened in 2014, was purpose built with single rooms to allow patients to receive care in a modern and comfortable setting, with each patient room equipped with a shared ensuite, plus television, fridge and exercise equipment.

“While the CF Unit employs strict practices and protocols around infection control, ensuring this can be challenging, particularly if patients are sharing facilities like bathrooms,” Dr Reid said.

“Having improved facilities and accommodation specifically designed to support CF patients will allow us to continue to deliver the best possible and safest care to them.”

As the state’s largest centre for adult CF care, the service today cares for more than 300 patients from around Queensland, northern NSW and the Northern Territory.