As part of the overarching “Backyard” theme of Kay Jewelers Pavilion, our ER’s puddle theme features a calming blue palette, splashes of artwork, ripple patterns in the flooring and an aquarium.
Located in Kay Jewelers Pavilion, Akron Children’s newly designed ER, which opens at 7:30 a.m. May 5, is twice as large as the old one, with a focus on providing comfort and organization to patients during an otherwise stressful time.
Our new ER is all about forward motion, said Dina Dornack, clinical nurse manager at Akron Childrens Emergency department. From drop off to discharge, we keep patient care moving.
The ER main entrance, 177 W. Exchange St., features free valet parking and a dedicated parking lot to ensure safe and convenient access to care. Once inside, a nurse assesses the patient to determine the best treatment area.
By design, our assessment rooms have doors that open into the main emergency treatment areas to keep patient care moving forward, said Dornack. This triage space also gives us the flexibility to get X-rays or lab tests started prior to seeing a doctor, which is a more efficient use of time and enhances the patient experience.
Another design feature that improves patient flow is the EMS-only entrance. With more than 2,800 children transported to Akron Childrens ER last year, this dedicated entrance helps relieve traffic in the main entrance area and allows EMS workers to get critical patients into a room faster.
Many of our EMS providers travel long distances because Childrens is such a large referral center, Dornack said. Our EMS entrance features an equipment room and lounge so workers can retrieve equipment, have computer access to complete run reports and grab a quick snack before going back on the road.
Fully-equipped patient rooms
Our new ER has larger patient rooms with enough space for families to comfortably remain close to a patient during their visit.
In addition, every room has standardized medical equipment and access to supply carts for specialty care such as casting. The rooms also feature technology that allows staff to easily share patient data, test results and X-rays without moving the child from place to place.
The last thing a parent or child wants to do when they come to ER is sit and wait or, worse yet, feel like theyre going backwards, said Dornack. Now we can bring care to the bedside, allowing the patient to remain in one room until they are ready for discharge from the ER.
Another benefit of our new ER is a dedicated radiology suite. The suite includes 2 X-ray rooms, a CT scanner and ultrasound room exclusively for emergency patients. A portable X-ray is available for patients who need to remain in their room.
The new design and workflow of the ER allows us to reduce time wasted in movement and increase time caring for patients, Dornack said.
Room to grow
Akron Childrens is the second busiest pediatric ER in Ohio. We handle about 160 patient visits a day and that number isnt slowing down.
The forward-thinking design of our ER gives us the flexibility needed to meet the needs of our patients and their families today and in the future, said Dornack. Its a true reflection of our dedication and commitment to caring for patients and whatever changes come our way.
As part of our year-long anniversary celebration, were telling the story of Akron Childrens through the eyes of past and present employees, doctors, donors, volunteers and patient families. We encourage you to share your own memories and stories about us.
About Suzi Schenkenberger
Suzi Schenkenberger is a freelance writer and public relations consultant. With more than 15 years experience, Suzi has written for local and national brands including GE, Diebold, Akron Children's Hospital and E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall.