LLUMC Emergency Department Expands, Opens Patient Unit

Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) opened a new unit in the emergency department (ED) last month, marking the first expansion of the ED since 1967. A highly organized team orchestrated the culmination of years of planning and moved patients into the new space that morning. “The move was intense but I could feel the excitement in the air and hear the pride in the voices of all who were working to make the dream a reality,” said Kathleen Clem, MD, professor and chair of emergency medicine. The new 19-bed space was a renovation of the previous nine-bed surge unit — which handled patient overflow — in the ED and offers patients additional comfort no matter what injury or illness brings them to the hospital. “The new emergency department space is sparkling clean, technically advanced and projects efficiency and professionalism,” Dr. Clem said. "It is reflective of the excellence that is Loma Linda University emergency medicine. The new beds will be used for both pediatric and adult patients." The first patient admitted into the new space was 6-and-a-half-month-old Yvonne Lam of Loma Linda, who, despite her trip to the ED, was happy and playful during her evaluation. “This new space brings the ED bed count to 73 and promises to be very beneficial to our patients and staff,” said Sherry Nolfe, RN, director of patient care. “Each room is private and spacious and the additional beds will provide shorter wait times and, ultimately, happier patients.” Construction on the project began in spring 2013 but involved years of planning and preparation. The remainder of the emergency department, which includes 54 pediatric and adult patient beds, is expected to undergo renovation in the coming years.