Saint Francis Serenity Suite Ready to Welcome Colleagues
October 2, 2024Categories: Colleague Corner
Thanks to efforts from Mission Integration, the Executive Leadership Team, and the Saint Francis Foundation, the hospital is pleased to announce the opening of the Saint Francis Serenity Suite, located in the 7-1 hallway across from the Green Elevators. Following an official ribbon cutting on Friday, September 27, the space is accessible to all colleagues as an area to relax and recharge. By swiping their badge, colleagues may access the Suite 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Serenity Suite includes an immersive HD video experience, massage chair, a dedicated yoga space, and more to help colleagues relax and recharge.
The Serenity Suite is an immersive, virtual retreat where caregivers can escape during their breaks. It is modeled after Serenity Suites at Mercy Medical Center and Saint Mary’s Hospital, where colleagues have described the rooms as “game changers” and “life savers.” Leaders at Saint Francis consulted with colleagues across different departments to learn what they would find most beneficial in the room.
The Suite features a full sensory relaxation experience with HD video nature scenes, surround sound, mood lighting, and essential oil scent diffusion. Participants can create their own stress-reducing experience and location, utilize massage chairs, or a dedicated yoga space.
“The Serenity Suite was designed with our colleagues’ needs and comfort in mind and reflect our appreciation for everything they do,” said Michael Rogers, Ph.D., Mission Leader. “We are so incredibly grateful to our caregivers for the high-quality, compassionate care they provide every day, and this is a small way to show our colleagues that we are committed to them, as they are committed to our patients.”
Serenity suites and tranquility rooms have grown in need and popularity at hospitals nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, with users reporting significant reductions in stress levels after just 15 minutes. Studies have shown these spaces result in better sleep, fewer medical errors, and improved patient outcomes.
The Saint Francis Serenity Suite was fully funded through philanthropy, including a grant award and significant donations from board members, grateful patients, community members, and colleagues.