Donated speciality mattress at Hāwera Hospital

5 June 2024

Left to right: Debbie Moffit and Linda Garrett from Altrusa Hawera.

Hāwera Hospital has been gifted a new pressure-relieving mattress thanks to the generosity of the Hāwera branch of Altrusa International, the women’s service organisation that has been supporting the South Taranaki community since 1981.

The special new pressure-relieving mattress is already making a difference to the care we can provide patients, says Kate McCrea, Nurse Manager for Hāwera Hospital.

“Because pressure-relieving mattresses are made from materials that contour to the body, they alleviate pressure on the hips, shoulders, and back so we use them to support patients who are unable to move for long periods,” says McCrea.

“The mattress is being used in our inpatient ward to support the care of patients who might be at risk of a pressure injury, and to provide them with greater comfort. It’s especially valuable for frail, elderly and stroke patients.

“We are very grateful to Hāwera Altrusa. Their support has enabled us to increase the number of pressure-relieving mattresses we have to four.”
Altrusa raised the funds for the mattress during last year’s South Taranaki Christmas House tour, where the group of 27 women sold raffle tickets and provided catering.

Over the last four years Hāwera Altrusa have raised more than $35, 000 which has been used to purchased multiple items for Taranaki Hospice and cuddle cots for families experiencing infant bereavement.

Last updated: Friday, June 7, 2024