Australian-first ICU initiative improves family support

Alexa Leary and 8A South Nurse Stacey

Former RBWH Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients and families have funded a new $1 million program set to make life easier for those who follow in their footsteps.

The WeCU program delivered by the RBWH Foundation will now boast a newly refurbished ICU waiting room as well as dedicated support staff based in the room, to comfort and assist families at this challenging time.

Donors include Australian Paralympic swimmer Alexa Leary and her parents Russ and Belinda, as well as Mat and Bianca Jones-Umina, who lost their 17-year-old son Nikias.

The WeCU was informed by consultation with the families as well as other former patients and ICU staff, who all agreed that a more private space and staff to assist with things like where to stay through to communication with the clinicians would make a big difference.

RBWH Service Director Critical Care and Clinical Support Services Luke Shorten said the co-design with clinicians, allied health professionals, patients and families reflected the needs of those with a loved one in ICU.

“Having a family member in ICU can be daunting and immensely stressful, but we are so happy to be able to help our patients’ families through this new program,” Luke said.

“The service will now run seven days a week and will provide support in the form of information, care and comfort, communication with the healthcare team, as well as assisting with accommodation bookings and patient travel subsidy support.”

While attending the opening of the WeCU, Alexa visited her old ward of 8A South where she spent many months recovering after ICU.

During her visit, she proudly showed off her Australian medals as well as a big smile for the fundraising efforts set to improve the difficult time spent in hospital for other families.