KPH continues to experience challenges with central air conditioning system which disrupted surgical services

The management of the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) says it continues to experience challenges with the central air conditioning system serving two of its operating theatres.

KPH said these challenges have resulted in disruptions to surgical services and delays in the scheduling and completion of elective surgeries across multiple specialities.

In a release, KPH explains that the issues with the hospital’s central air-conditioning system are related to the ageing infrastructure, which is 250 years old, and the deterioration of critical components that are not readily available locally.

KPH notes that maintaining the appropriate environmental conditions within operating theatres is essential for patient safety, infection prevention and compliance with established clinical standards.

Therefore, the hospital says the needed parts are being airfreighted into the island, and plans are well-advanced to replace the ageing air-conditioning system.

It adds that repairs are underway to restore the affected air-conditioning systems as quickly as possible and return the operating theatres to full capacity.

It notes that this work is being carried out by an agent of the equipment manufacturer via a joint venture effort between the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) and the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW).

Additionally, it says emergency and life-saving surgical services continue to be prioritised, and the hospital remains committed to providing the highest possible standard of care under these circumstances.

Clinical teams are continuously reviewing surgical schedules and will contact affected patients regarding rescheduling arrangements as operational capacity improves.