New Zealand’s only intensive care unit for children has hit peak capacity, with staff working overtime and non-emergency surgeries for the country s youngest patients being delayed.
To help meet demand there are plans in motion for a total $40 million expansion of the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) that would see 10 new beds built in time for next year’s winter, if it can secure the current $8 million funding shortfall.
Meanwhile, unit staff are working hard to service the health needs of the 1.25 million aged 16 or younger, with just 22 beds.
PICU doctor John Beca says for those in need of emergency care its doors will always be open, with staff working overtime to ensure this can happen.