“Three years of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the capacity pressures ICUs have experienced across the province,” said Dr. Gary Newton, President and CEO, Sinai Health. “This new and expanded ICU is allowing us to adapt and pivot to support Ontario’s increasing critical care needs.”
Featuring 36 beds, the state-of-the-art ICU is more than double the size of the previous unit at 35,500 square feet.
Other enhancements include:
- Pod-based design allowing for optimal bed access
- Six isolation rooms and a negative pressure pod designed to reduce the transmission of airborne infections
- Large windows increasing the natural light throughout the unit
- Family and caregiver lounge, kitchenette and showers
- Skills and simulation lab for training and educating future leaders in enabling research
- Location in close proximity to imaging facilities, providing critically ill patients faster and easier access to essential MRI and CT imaging
Dr. Christie Lee, Interim Site Director, Critical Care Medicine, said the new Kimel Schatzky ICU will have many improvements for patients, and their families. “Each room is designed to allow more family interaction. We’re providing extra seating for visitors, and pullouts for caregivers, recognizing their important role in recovery.”
More than 900 patients are cared for in Mount Sinai’s ICU each year. The new ICU will increase the number of critically ill patients we are able to care for who are recovering from life-threatening c-sections and deliveries, cancer-related surgeries, heart attacks or strokes, and on ventilators or receiving life support.
The new unit is named for Shawn Kimmel and his partner Kate Schatzky in recognition of the $21 million gift that helped to transform the possibilities for critical care in Mount Sinai’s ICU.
The Kimel Schatzky Intensive Care Unit is a transformative element of Renew Sinai, the largest and most ambitious redevelopment project in Mount Sinai’s history. In total, more than 300,000 square feet will be redeveloped to improve care for patients with cancer, undergoing life-saving surgery and requiring emergency care.
About Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital, part of Sinai Health, is an internationally recognized acute care academic health science centre affiliated with the University of Toronto. The Hospital is a leader in the clinical areas of women’s and infants’ health, chronic disease management, specialized cancer care, emergency medicine, and geriatrics. Founded in 1923, Mount Sinai Hospital is celebrating 100 years of commitment to the service of others and its purpose to care, create possibilities and offer hope. Holding Exemplary Standing from Accreditation Canada, Mount Sinai is the first and only hospital in Canada to receive Magnet® recognition for nursing excellence and patient care. The Hospital is also a top employer in Canada, receiving multiple awards for our employee-focused and culture centred programs. www.sinaihealth.ca/
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Jennifer Specht
Senior Manager, Corporate Communications
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