An artist’s impression of the Emergency Department after this upgrade.

Works are now underway on Redcliffe Hospital’s paediatric emergency department upgrade.

The $10 million federally funded project will provide the hospital with separate and dedicated paediatric areas in the emergency department, which ultimately will mean better and safer patient care.

Executive Director Louise Oriti said that the upgrade would provide a separate paediatric reception and triage area, a family-friendly waiting room, separate paediatric treatment spaces, and short-stay beds.

“This is the latest in a long list of upgrades to our clinical facilities, and as usual, our infrastructure team is working very closely with our clinical teams to ensure impacts to patients and clinical care will be minimised.

“It also means that the emergency department will remain operational throughout these works, with no change to the standard of care we provide to patients.”

Louise said the works were expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Josh Foyle from Metro North Infrastructure said the builders and contractors had now established a worksite near the emergency department, with temporary fencing going up earlier this month.

“Staff and patients will notice some changes during these works, but they will be well-sign posted to make sure everyone can get to where they need to go,” Josh said.

Josh said the main change would be the front door of the emergency department moving temporarily to the western side of the building to facilitate the upgrade of the emergency department entry.

“The emergency department vehicle turnaround will also be closed, and a temporary replacement built on part of the West Block car park.”

“These changes are temporary, and when the works are complete, the front door will return to the usual location.”

Josh will be presenting updates on the project at staff forums next month.