Perioperative Services Nurse Unit Manager Joanne Cook, Deputy Director of Nursing Chantel Baker, Executive Officer/Director of Nursing Lisa Slater and President of the Bellingen Hospital and Pink Auxiliary Waveney Ayscough with the two recliners donated to Bellinger River District Hospital.

Hospital volunteers thanked for generous gift of recliner chairs

Oct 28, 2024

Bellingen Hospital and Pink Auxiliary has donated two new recliner chairs, valued at $10,600, helping to improve patient comfort and care at Bellinger River District Hospital.

Executive Officer/Director of Nursing Lisa Slater said the state-of-the-art recliners were a valuable improvement to the hospital’s Day Surgery and IV infusion therapy services, providing enhanced comfort and improved clinical functionality for patients and the healthcare team.

“The new recliner chairs offer significant improvements over the older models,” Ms Slater said.

“Their advanced design not only promotes greater patient comfort but also supports clinicians with minimal effort. The chairs’ features, including large swivel locking wheels and a rear push handle, allow for easier manoeuvrability, providing a safer experience for patients and staff.”

Additionally, the newer design incorporates improved infection control measures, thanks to its upgraded materials and construction. With a smooth backrest and a robust, unbreakable leg rest lever that can be easily adjusted by patients or nurses, these chairs are particularly suited for patients who may struggle to operate the leg rest themselves.

“For an even more restful experience, the chairs can recline fully flat, offering a comfortable and relaxing recovery or treatment time,” Ms Slater said.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from the Bellingen Hospital and Pink Auxiliary,” Ms Slater said.

“This donation has set us on the right path to upgrading our entire fleet of recliner chairs, which are nearing the end of their service life. Thanks to volunteers’ commitment, our patients will benefit from an improved experience during their care.”

Bellingen Hospital and Pink Auxiliary President Waveney Ayscough said even the colour was a bonus!

“We were all excited about the colour! Purple is my favourite.  The hospital wants to keep the incoming new chairs in the same style now,” Ms Ayscough said.

“The UHA members can feel really proud of their efforts as $10, 600 is a lot of caramel slice and coffee!

“These chairs are used often by regular patients so it’s a wonderful addition to the hospital… and I’ve noticed the staff relaxing in them as well on night shift. They are comfortable. 

“I feel so proud to be part of a really hard-working, motivated group of vollies.  Everyone brings their individual talents to the table and are inspired to help improve the hospital.”