Patients in Ward 1 at Maryborough Hospital are set to benefit from a thoughtful donation of activity items from WBHHS’s hospital foundation, Partners in Care Together, helping bring comfort, connection and distraction to some of the ward’s most vulnerable patients.
The donation includes fidget toys, puzzles, colouring books and pens, and books, which will be used to support cognitively impaired patients during their stay in hospital.
Ward 1 Nurse Unit Manager Tara Ryton-Malden said the gifts would make a meaningful difference for patients who can often feel isolated and lonely while in hospital.
“Ward 1 cares for a high turnover of acute and sub-acute medical and surgical patients, with an average length of stay of around six days. Within that group, we also care for patients living with dementia and other forms of cognitive impairment,” Tara said.
“For these patients, having something familiar and engaging to do can be incredibly important. They do not always have visitors, and time in hospital can feel very long and isolating. These items will give them a welcome distraction and help make their stay a little more comfortable.”
The donation came about after Partners in Care Together invited submissions through a wish list process. Ward 1 submitted an expression of interest and was delighted to be selected.
“We were very fortunate to receive this support,” Tara said.
“These simple gifts will have a real impact on our patients’ hospital experience.”
Tara said patients had already responded positively to having activities available.
“One patient really enjoyed having something to do, and it was lovely to see how much that small moment of engagement meant,” she said. “We hope these items will continue to brighten patients’ days and improve their time with us.”
The donation is a reminder of the important role community support plays in patient care, and the difference small acts of kindness can make in a hospital setting.