When it comes to raising money for Bairnsdale Regional Health Service, the Bairnsdale and District Past Trained Nurses and Associates group never lies down on the job – especially when raising money to buy a hospital bed for a special purpose.

The group has purchased a fully functioning hospital bed for BRHS’ Home-Based Nursing service, which allows patients that can recover at home with their loved ones and with support from home care nurses. In many cases, patients are able to recover from their condition faster in familiar surroundings rather than in hospital.

The Bairnsdale and District Past Trained Nurses and Associates group is made up of nurses who were trained at the former Bairnsdale Hospital and other hospital-trained nurses who worked at the hospital in their careers.

Its president, Cheryl Brooks, said the group recognised a need for a hospital bed that could be used in patients’ homes to support their recuperation.

”We decided to get something for the hospital that we knew would go into someone’s home to help a patient so they could be cared for at home in a bed that was appropriate for patient care, whether for district nursing or for palliative care,” she said.

The bed is fully adjustable to make it accessible for anyone and comes with an inflatable mattress to maximise comfort.

The bed was delivered recently and has already been used.

Home-based Nurse Jenna Beams said the beds make a big difference for patients.

“It allows the patients to be in a home setting and their family to be able to provide safer care for them,” she said.

“They don’t have to worry about possibly injuring their backs if the patient needs to be moved or while transferring in and out of bed. They can use the mechanics of the bed. It’s more comfortable for the patients with the air mattress.

“It makes access to health care in the home safer, easier and more comfortable for everyone. We’re so grateful for this donation.”