Brad Anderson, director of Engineering Services for Clearfield Hospital, center, discusses renovations to Clearfield Hospital’s Obstetrics Unit with Kathy Simmons, Obstetrics Unit manager, left, and Susan Ray, chief nursing officer.

Construction is expected to take several weeks, and comes with a price tag of more than $200,000. The improvements include the addition of four labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum suites.

Those interested in learning more about Clearfield Hospital’s obstetrics program may contact Kathy Simmons, R.N., M.S., unit manager, at (814) 765-5341.

Since the early 1900s, Clearfield Hospital’s Obstetrics Unit has cared for generations of mothers and babies.

During those years, the unit has experienced many changes. New technology, prenatal education and family participation are among the improvements that have made childbirth safer and more comfortable.

More change is in store for the unit. In July, major renovations to the obstetrics unit got under way.

The project involves the construction of four labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum suites, in which most mothers and their newborns will spend their entire stay; three private patient rooms; an expansion of the nursery; new furniture and equipment; a new education room; and the addition of a hydro-massage whirlpool room.

Construction is expected to take several weeks, and comes with a price tag of more than $200,000, according to Brad Anderson, director of Engineering Services.

The hospital received donations of $50,000 from the Clearfield Hospital Auxiliary and $2,950 from the Clearfield Foundation for Health for the project.

“These renovations will enhance the birthing experience for families at Clearfield Hospital. We’re excited about the improvements, and believe the project will enable our physicians and staff to provide an even higher level of care,” Robert B. Murray III, President and Chief Executive Officer, said.  

Renovation Specifics

The LDRPs are designed to look like home and will have state-of-the-art equipment to make sure baby's arrival goes as smoothly as possible, according to Susan Ray, R.N., B.S.M., chief nursing officer.

“Our goal is for the family to have the safest, most comfortable and memorable birthing experience possible,” she said.

If the need arises, an operating room is nearby for surgical deliveries.

Ms. Ray said other “personal touches” to make families comfortable during their stay will be added, including a special meal for parents after their baby’s birth, a new blanket for newborns and the announcement of the baby’s birth over the hospital intercom system, if the parents so choose.

The new nursery will be larger, enabling staff to move around more freely while they tend to new arrivals. For parents who prefer to keep their newborn with them at all times, Clearfield Hospital offers a rooming-in feature.     

The newly-renovated unit will be named the Armstrong Birthing Center in honor of B. Ellen “Bert” Armstrong, recently-retired unit manager, who devoted 49 years to Clearfield Hospital obstetrics.

“We all have the ability to create – the difference is how we use what we create. Bert will be proud of the new creations being put forth to meet the needs of women and their families in our community,” Ms. Ray said. 

Those interested in learning more about Clearfield Hospital’s obstetrics program may contact Kathy Simmons, R.N., M.S., unit manager, at (814) 765-5341.