Neuroscience Unit
General Information
The Neuroscience Unit (know located on level 8, main building) is a 32 bed ward providing general and specialist care to neurology, neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, ophthalmology and rehabilitation patients of all ages. Nursing care is also provided care for children with other medical and surgical problems when other wards are full. The most common conditions treated include epilepsy, brain and spinal tumors, head injuries and neuromuscular disorders.
The Neuroscience Unit supports a family centred care approach and encourages parents/caregivers to participate in all aspects of care of their child. Whilst being in hospital may not be a pleasurable experience for any child, the staff aim to create an environment that provides the best possible care and service for children and their families.
Comprehensive care is provided within an interdisciplinary team approach through all aspects of treatment. This team includes doctors, nursing staff and allied health professionals. Allied health professionals are occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers, speech therapists, dieticians, neuropsychologists, chaplains, pharmacists, play therapists, school teachers, music therapists, ward clerks and patient service assistants (PSA'S).
Continuity of nursing care is encouraged and practiced under the primary nursing care model, whereby one or two nurses coordinate and assist in the care of one child and family. The Care Manager coordinates the care of children with complex or long-term care needs, thereby facilitating communication between all of the multidisciplinary team and linking with appropriate community support services.
In November of 1998, the nursing staff of the Neuroscience Unit won the highest award for providing nursing care in Victoria. The Victorian Nurse's Care Award for excellence in nursing practice is an award based on nominations from patients and their families and was a very exciting time for all staff. The unit aims to continuously improve services so as to provide optimal care to children and their families.
Nursing staff are actively involved in ongoing education, quality improvement programs, and are committed to providing the best quality of care. They also act as resource and support people for families, and liaise with the community on management of these children.
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The Neuroscience unit consists of single and shared rooms (2 or 4 children) with ensuites, a play room, kitchen, several bathrooms, a parents room and staff working areas. The ward was recently renovated in 2005, but being an "old style building", space is still a premium and bedside areas often become quite cramped when one parent sleeps be side the bed and medical equipment is required in the room.
Children and parents admitted for a VEM stay may find it difficult to adjust to being present with sick children who are have often under gone recent surgery, sustained a head injury or undertaking chemotherapy.
Facilities
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For children
Play room with toys, books, games and Nintendoļ¾® machine. Play therapists run frequent sessions and cater to children who are confined to bed.
Television and video access provided above each bed and available free of charge. A large selection of popular children's videos.
Hospital clown visits.
The Starlight room is located on the first floor of the main building. It is open from Monday-Friday and is run by Captain Starlight providing some form of entertainment, special show or hands-on activity.
Two playgrounds are located within the hospital grounds.
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For parents
The parent's room has been developed for the use of parents/caregivers. It is a place where parents can obtain tea/coffee, sit for a while, store their own food supplies and microwave any food.
Showers and toilets are available within close proximity of the ward. Parents are asked, where possible, to provide their own towel and toiletries.One parent/caregiver may stay overnight by the bedside. Where possible it is preferred for parents to bring their own linen/sleeping bag from home. Alternative accomodation can be arranged through the Royal Children's Hospital Parent Accommodation Unit.
Breakfast is provided for those parents/caregivers who have stayed overnight with their child. Parents should utilise the various facilities located within the hospital for all other meals.
Telephones are located beside each bed. This allows family and friends to ring in only to speak directly with parents and children. Public telephones are located nearby the unit. Mobile telephones are not to be used within the ward area at any time as they interfere with some medical equipment.
Visiting
Parents and caregivers are welcome at any time and are encouraged to be involved in all aspects of care.
Family and friends note visiting hours are from 8.00am to 1.00pm and 2.30pm to 7.30pm.
Siblings must be supervised at all times and may visit if they are well and have not had contact with other sick children.
Further information
For further information please contact the Epilepsy Nurse Specialist or:
Ms Lyndall Gallagher
Unit Manager
Telephone +61 3 9345 4488
Fax +61 3 9345 4464
Email: Lyndall Gallagher