See inside state-of-the-art new ICU unit at St Mary's Hospital

A new intensive care unit (ICU) is already treating patients, just hours after it opened at the Isle of Wight's hospital.

Featuring more beds, state-of-the-art equipment and natural light, to aid the recovery and rehabilitation of those who are critically unwell, the unit was officially opened by a former patient.

For staff, meanwhile, it means significantly more space and a welcome move out of temporary premises.

Louise Timoney was admitted in 2016, aged just 17, and returned for the official opening.

The doors to the new unit (Image: IWCP)

A rainbow of handprints at the new ICU unit in St Mary's (Image: IWCP)

Inside the new ICU at St Mary's (Image: IWCP)

"St Mary's ICU and all past and present staff hold a special place in my heart.

"Without the hard work of all the team, including doctors, nurses, care assistants, cleaners, physios and dieticians, I wouldn't be where I am today," she said.

She used the opportunity to present the team with a cheque for £5,000, raised by her and her workmates, at GKN.

"It's a fantastic day for the hospital," chief officer, Joe Smyth told the County Press, as he gave us an exclusive tour of the ICU.

The upgrade was funded, among a number of projects, by a £48 million investment from the government, announced in 2019.

• Read more: How £48 million government windfall could be spent by health trust

Vikki Crickmore, consultant critical care nurse, said: "The most significant improvement in the new ICU is it's all side rooms. That's really important.

"There is privacy for patients and families and we are fit for the future."

During the work, patients have been cared for in a temporary ICU but today (Tuesday), they were transferred to the new unit, where extra beds also meant more room for additional patients.

Clinical director for critical care services, Dr Muriel Prager, said: "The ability to provide modern, state-of-the-art services right here on our Island, for residents and visitors alike, has always been one of the top priorities.

"Our well designed, modern new unit is equipped with all the latest, cutting edge medical technology.

"Most importantly, we continue to be staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with the most caring and most competent staff anyone could wish for."

Recently, a revamped emergency ward for children opened and construction continues at the brand new emergency department for adults, which is being purpose-built at the front of the Newport hospital.

"The next phase is the emergency floor," said Joe Smyth.

"When that opens, that will increase the size of the emergency department. Then, in about six to eight months time, we will move the fracture clinic to the north of the hospital.

"We are also opening another new unit, called the clinical diagnostic unit. Gradually, the inpatient units will be in the south part of the site."

• Read more: Isle of Wight hospital opens new children's emergency department

A new room at ICU for relatives (Image: IWCP)

The new-look ICU at St Mary's (Image: IWCP)"An ICU has a lot of equipment, so space is important," said Vikki.

"The temporary ICU has not been very forgiving. It's been difficult. It's important to have this space. Staff will be very grateful."

Chief Officer, Joe Smyth said: “It is incredible to see the transformation.

"The improvements we have made will make a real difference to our patients who require the most critical care as well as the staff caring for them."