Walks that heal

INCA hospital has launched its very own ‘Walks that heal’ initiative, which will allow ICU patients to spend time outside.
After its success at the San Juan de Dios Hospital in Córdoba, patients who are admitted to the ICU will be able to spend 45 minutes in the sun under the supervision of medical team and family members. Studies indicate the benefits of sunlight in the rehabilitation of those that are critically ill or seriously injured.
Any patient who has been in the ICU for more than 48 hours can be considered as a candidate for the project as long as it does not pose a risk to their health. Medical personnel will also have to follow a protocol created by the San Juan de Dios Hospital which establishes several safety conditions.
Concha Zaforteza, Director of Nursing at Inca hospital, explained that patients will be able to go onto the outdoor terraces because the protocol “requires an area without traffic or people and great temperature changes”.
Last week, the hospital took its first patient outside accompanied by his family and medical personnel. Zaforteza stated that it was an emotional experience for everyone involved, and one which they intend to repeat.