A
new state-of-the-art piece of equipment was launched this week in the Peamount
Hospital Rehabilitation Unit by Dublin Mid-West T.D., Frances Fitzgerald.
The
HUR Pulley Functional Trainer (PFT) is the first of its kind in the country,
having completed an initial trial for a number of months. Designed in Finland,
the free-standing machine can be used by both inpatients and out-patients to
improve their limb and core strength.
Speaking
at the launch, Fitzgerald commented:
“I am delighted that Peamount now has
top-of-the-range equipment for strength-rehabilitating patients. A number of
patients in the room today have told me about their experience with the machine
and the visible signs of improvement that they have experienced as a result of
this trial. I’m also encouraged to hear the PFT can also be used by
wheelchair-users – as well as patients who have suffered from stroke or have
undergone hip-replacement surgery.”
Thanking
all involved in the acquisition of the equipment, Fitzgerald noted:
“This would not have been possible without
the generosity that was shown through the Patient Donations Fund and the
hard-working staff in Peamount Hospital. I am a great admirer of environments
which require a multidisciplinary approach – and the Rehabilitation Unit is
testament to such an approach. Congratulations to the occupational therapists; physiotherapists;
social workers; consultant geriatricians; student physiotherapists and all of
the staff, whose small acts make the difference during difficult journeys to
recovery.”
Development of new
100-bed unit progressing towards completion
Deputy
Fitzgerald also welcomed the development of the new healthcare facility within
the complex, which is currently under construction. This will provide an
additional 50 residential beds as well as 50 neuro-rehabilitation beds – all of
which will help address the complex needs of many patients.
“I am looking forward to seeing the
completion of this much-needed project in Peamount Hospital. I intend to follow
its progression over the coming months – and I shall continue to work closely
with Minister Harris to ensure that this new development delivers in its huge
potential.
ENDS
