A new ward which can be used to isolate, treat and control the spread of infections is being opened at the James Paget University Hospital today.The dedicated infection control ward, which has space for 22 patients, has been specially designed so that all the equipment, beds and surfaces are easy to clean.

A new ward which can be used to isolate, treat and control the spread of infections is being opened at the James Paget University Hospital today.

The dedicated infection control ward, which has space for 22 patients, has been specially designed so that all the equipment, beds

and surfaces are easy to clean.

The whole department has been constructed using hygienic materials, and a specialist wall and door finish, which is usually only found in operating theatres and pharmacies, has been used.

Even the air in the ward can be kept clean as different areas within the ward can have different levels of ventilation. The isolation rooms have also been built with special air flow technology which can create an air curtain, allowing the patients inside to be fully protected from infection at all times.

Bernard Brett, consultant physician and divisional director for emergency services, said: “On a day to day basis the ward will be used for the care of general medical patients who will benefit greatly from

this modern, well-equipped

and comfortable environment.

“However, the design of this ward means that when necessary, it can be used to complement our existing dedicated infection control ward areas as state-of-the-art infection control facilities have been built in.

“Eight single en suite rooms and spacious two and four bedded bays, all en suite, will greatly enhance the facilities for isolation and treatment of those with infections as

and when necessary.”

Matron Jill Hunt said: “Every effort has been made to design an environment which is easy to clean and which will withstand our rigorous daily deep clean programme.

“Simple but effective features, such as windows from floor to ceiling, mean patients can look outside with ease from their beds, while built-in parking bays for necessary hospital trolleys will help to ensure ward corridor areas are kept clean and tidy.”

Mike Stonard, chief executive of NHS Yarmouth and Waveney, said: “This new ward will improve the dedicated care offered to patients suffering with infections, while helping to prevent those infections from spreading elsewhere.”

The ward will be officially opened today by Yarmouth mayor Terry Easter.