Mercy Hospital operating suite expansion nears completion

Though progress on construction came to a halt during the recent presidential elections in Sierra Leone, the finishing touches are at last being completed on the expansion at Mercy Hospital.  

The electrical wiring and three air conditioners have been installed. These units are a critical part of keeping patients and doctors comfortable and safe during surgical procedures.  The remaining items to be completed are primarily cosmetic; finishing the ceilings, installing light fixtures, covering pipes, installing doors for the operating rooms, finishing the ramp, and completing the waiting area.

Additional facility issues at Mercy have also been addressed.  One of the things Mercy has wanted to do for a long time is to better ensure the security of the compound.   Mercy was able to use some savings to build a wall behind the hospital, extending from the Child Rescue Centre on one side, to the old wall that surrounds UMC Urban Centre on the other to create a U shape. The new wall will limit the number of people who use Mercy’s grounds as a pass through, and help the hospital secures its own and patients’ property. It will also strengthen disease control by allowing staff to monitor people entering the compound, and ensuring everyone washes their hands as they pass through the guard station. If a contagious disease breaks out, Mercy will be in a much stronger position to contain infection and protect patients and staff.

New fencing was also installed around the ash pits and garbage container, to ensure proper containment of hazardous materials.