The University of New Mexico Hospital's highly anticipated critical care tower (CCT) is reaching a significant milestone as the construction of the new adult emergency department (ED) nears completion. This state-of-the-art facility has been designed with the safety and needs of New Mexico patients in mind.
The recent updates on the development of the new ED highlight the dedication and hard work of the construction teams. As of the end of 2023, the elevators serving the ED have been installed, and the concrete paving, walls, and ceilings in the new ambulance bay and patient drop-off area have been completed. Additionally, underground utilities are being installed in the rooms that will house imaging equipment.
Micah Sternberg, manager and interim director of emergency services at UNM Hospital, emphasizes the critical importance of the ED to the safety and well-being of over two million people in New Mexico, southern Colorado, and eastern Arizona. He states, "Our ED is of critical importance to the safety and well-being of over two million people in New Mexico, southern Colorado, and eastern Arizona... So, our department growing both in size and efficiency will bolster public safety for millions of people."
The current adult ED at UNM Hospital has been grappling with long-standing issues of overcapacity and lack of space. With around 7,000 critically ill or injured patients treated annually, the need for a larger ED has become increasingly evident. Pearl Richins, executive director of emergency services at UNM Hospital, expresses confidence in the new ED's ability to provide specialized care more efficiently. She explains, "The new space in the critical care tower is going to help us level up in terms of the care that we are already providing... Having better defined and expanded areas, including those for behavioral health and critical care patients, will help serve our population much better."
The new ED in the critical care tower will be more than twice the size of the current ED, measuring 58,477 square feet. It will feature 68 exam rooms, including dedicated areas for trauma, resuscitation, fast track, behavioral health, and standard care. The ED will also have advanced imaging equipment, such as computed tomography (CT) scanners and general radiology rooms. Furthermore, the design and layout of the new ED aim to streamline workflow and enhance operations. Micah Sternberg explains, "We have an opportunity... to redefine the philosophy of how we organize the department... More than just a larger department, we're getting the opportunity to redesign the way we use the department, as well."
As construction on the critical care tower progresses into 2024, the team members at UNM Hospital eagerly anticipate the completion of this long-awaited facility. The ED staff, in particular, looks forward to serving patients in this advanced and state-of-the-art structure. The CCT is expected to finish construction in the spring of 2025.
In conclusion, the nearing completion of the adult emergency department in UNM Hospital's critical care tower represents a significant milestone in providing enhanced emergency care for the population of New Mexico and its neighboring regions. The larger and more innovative space, coupled with improved workflow and expanded areas, will undoubtedly improve patient care and bolster public safety.
