Nurses: Mount Carmel Garden Refurb Puts Patients at Risk

In the heart of Msida, the garden of Mount Carmel Hospital, once a peaceful sanctuary for patients, is now a source of concern for nurses. They fear that recent refurbishments have turned the space into a potential danger zone, with patients at risk of escape or injury.

The Garden: A Lifeline for Patients

The garden at Mount Carmel, with its lush greenery and Mediterranean charm, has long been a lifeline for patients. It provides a much-needed respite from the clinical environment, a place for fresh air, exercise, and reflection. But now, nurses worry that the very place meant to soothe and heal is causing distress and danger.

Refurbishments Gone Wrong

In an effort to modernize and improve the space, the hospital administration recently undertook refurbishments. However, nurses claim that the new design, with its high walls, narrow paths, and lack of clear sightlines, is causing more harm than good. They warn that patients, especially those with dementia or mental health issues, could easily become disoriented, wander off, or injure themselves.

“We’ve seen patients trying to climb the new walls, thinking they’re barriers to overcome,” said a nurse who wished to remain anonymous. “Others have wandered off, confused by the new layout, only to be found hours later, scared and disoriented.”

Nurses Sound the Alarm

Nurses have been raising these concerns with hospital management for months, but they feel their warnings are falling on deaf ears. Frustrated and fearful for their patients’ safety, they’ve now taken their concerns public, hoping to spark change.

“We love our jobs, and we love our patients,” said another nurse. “But we can’t stand by and watch as this beautiful garden becomes a danger zone. We need action, and we need it now.”

Hospital Management Responds

When contacted, a spokesperson for Mount Carmel Hospital acknowledged the nurses’ concerns but maintained that the refurbishments were necessary and safe. “We understand the nurses’ concerns, but we stand by the design,” they said. “We’ve taken all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our patients.”

However, nurses on the ground remain unconvinced. They urge the public to join them in pushing for a re-evaluation of the garden’s design, before a tragedy occurs.