Ocean Beach Health Completes Second of Four Major Bond-Funded Improvements
New nurses’ station and pharmacy designed to strengthen patient care and staff support
ILWACO, Wash. – Ocean Beach Health is proud to announce the completion of its expanded and modernized Acute Care nurses’ station and hospital pharmacy — the second major capital facilities project funded by the district’s voter-approved bond.
The redesigned space improves visibility to patient rooms, enhances communication among care teams, and supports a more efficient, patient-centered workflow. Through careful planning, phased construction, and close coordination with hospital staff, Acute Care services remained fully operational throughout the building period.
“This investment marks an exciting milestone in our commitment to compassionate, patient-focused care,” said Merry-Ann Keane, CEO of Ocean Beach Health. “The new nurses’ station and pharmacy were designed around the needs of our front-line caregivers and the patients they serve. We are deeply grateful to our community for supporting this important work.”
A generous grant from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, combined with the overwhelming support of South Pacific County residents, made the project possible. The design reflects input from Ocean Beach Health nursing staff and includes:
- A larger, modernized nurses’ station to enhance patient visibility and communication
- Streamlined inpatient and outpatient flow for improved patient experience
- A semi-private office for the charge nurse to support care coordination
- Dedicated workspace for the Clinical Nurse Manager
- Closer proximity between hospital leadership and frontline teams
- Updated finishes and infrastructure to support current and future care needs
“This space was shaped by our nursing team from day one,” said Brenda Sharkey, MSN, Chief Nursing Officer. “Their feedback guided the design to ensure the environment supports excellent patient care and gives our staff the space and tools they need to do their best work. We are grateful to our community for investing in healthcare close to home.”
To accommodate the expanded nurses’ station, the pharmacy was reconfigured within Acute Care and modernized to improve efficiency and prepare for future growth in pharmacy services.
New flooring, solid-surface counters, and updated paint and finishes complete a welcoming, contemporary environment for patients, families, and staff.
INLINE Construction, with oversight by Keane, Sharkey, and Larry Cohen, Chief Projects Officer, as well as tireless assistance from OBH’s Facilities, Environmental Services, and IT teams, completed the project in under six months.
The nurses’ station and pharmacy modernization follows the recently completed Laboratory Expansion. Two additional bond-funded projects are now underway as Ocean Beach Health continues to enhance services for the community.