The newly unveiled cancer center at JFK University Medical Center represents a significant leap forward in patient-centered care, particularly in the design of its infusion floor. This area, dedicated to administering chemotherapy and other treatments, is thoughtfully crafted with input from those who understand patient needs intimately: oncology nurses and advanced practice providers (APPs). These healthcare professionals, who spend countless hours alongside patients, have helped shape a space that balances privacy, comfort, and social support seamlessly. At the heart of this design philosophy is a commitment to placing patients at ease and empowering them with choices in their treatment environment.
One of the most striking features of the infusion floor is the series of private bays, each equipped with sliding doors. This clever design allows patients to decide whether they prefer solitude or the opportunity to engage with others during what can often be a trying experience. The bays are intentionally spacious, accommodating family members, friends, or other support persons who might wish to sit beside the patient during their treatment. Furthermore, technology integration adds a modern twist: screens with cameras enable patients to connect virtually with loved ones, attend meetings, or even participate in video calls without leaving their bay. Michele Morrison, president of JFK University Medical Center, emphasizes that the space is not only functional but also bright and welcoming—a sanctuary designed to support the holistic health of those facing cancer.
Behind the scenes, the hospital’s leadership underscores the crucial role of nursing expertise in the center’s creation. Lori Sammartino, the director of oncology, brings a wealth of clinical and leadership experience as a trained nurse with advanced certifications and leadership credentials. Her perspective ensures that both the operational efficiency and the emotional well-being of patients remain a priority. The involvement of advanced practice providers was pivotal in addressing the minute but essential details of the center’s layout. Joseph Landolfi, the chief medical officer, highlighted how APP input extended to practical concerns, such as the strategic placement of sinks or pharmacy areas relative to patient treatment stations. Such meticulous attention to detail enhances safety, convenience, and workflows, thereby directly benefiting patient care.
Chief Executive Officer Robert C. Garrett of Hackensack Meridian Health articulated a sentiment that resonates throughout the medical community: nurses are the backbone of healthcare institutions. They are the professionals most consistently present at the bedside, offering comfort, administering treatments, and observing subtle changes in patient conditions. Their lived experience with patients is invaluable, making their voices essential in shaping the physical and operational environment of care. This philosophy is evident in the new cancer center’s infusion floor, where nurse and APP involvement ensured that the space is uniquely attuned to patient needs, blending medical necessity with empathy-driven design.
In an era when hospital environments can often feel clinical and impersonal, the JFK University Medical Center’s infusion floor stands out as an emblem of compassionate innovation. By integrating the insights from seasoned oncology nurses and advanced practice providers, the center affirms the critical role healthcare workers play not only in treatment but in shaping healing spaces. The thoughtful inclusion of privacy options, spacious accommodations for loved ones, and advanced video conferencing technology exemplify a holistic approach that honors both the physical and emotional dimensions of cancer care. This new cancer center not only advances medical treatment capabilities but also fosters a community of support and dignity for patients during their journey.
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