The hospital's Laboratory has also been expanded and completely modernized to make space for newer technology and to address the cramped quarters that have developed as the hospital has grown. The new design allows for easy access to all equipment and a smooth flow of operations. This is especially important in the evening, when a smaller shift handles the required duties.

The new blood bank has also been enlarged. This area is important because it is used for cross-matching blood types for major surgeries and trauma cases.

"We [were] too small for the current workload," said Michele Bowen, lab manager. "As the county has grown and hospital admissions have risen, so too has the demand for more lab tests." In the past year alone, said Bowen, their volume has increased 13 percent - from 261,493 lab tests in 2002 to 284,837 in 2003. The new laboratory space increased from 3,331 to 6,083 square feet.

The old refrigerators and freezers have been replaced with more energy efficient models. These are needed to store reagents used to process samples and cultures. Other equipment is planned as funding is approved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does the laboratory provide?
The hospital's full-service laboratory performs specialized tests for inpatients and outpatients. Under the direction of a pathologist, registered technicians perform over 750 different procedures. Lab services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Why is the additional space important?
The new design allows for easy access to all equipment and a smooth flow of operations. This is especially important in the evening, when a smaller shift handles the required duties. The enlarged space also makes room for newer technology.

Expansion Benefits | Emergency Department | Intensive Care Unit | Laboratory Services
Parking | Current Progress