A group of intensive care nurses at Shoalhaven Hospital has organised a Melbourne Cup charity lunch to raise money for a project to enhance outdoor facilities for the intensive care unit.

The lunch will be held on Melbourne Cup day, Tuesday, November 4 at The Berry Hotel, starting at 12noon.

A three-course meal will cost $50 per head at tables of eight.

Entertainment will be provided by Kim Lesley Entertainment, featuring Cynthia Brown.

To book contact Christine Trost on 0402 465 879 or Kathy Schofield on 0409 906 722.

All proceeds will go to the intensive care unit courtyard project.

The project is to makeover the courtyard adjacent to ICU so patients can take advantage of the outdoors as part of their recovery.

Nurses Christine Trost and Kathy Schofield have championed the project, which builds on work being done in the unit to recreate normal day and night routines to prevent sleep disturbances issues for long term patients.

So far they have raised around $28,000 and have a goal of $50,000.

“Evidence shows us that sleep disturbances and stress while intubated in ICU can potentially delay healing, increase patients’ sensitivity to pain, cause an increased use of sedation and may increase the length of stay in the unit,” Ms Trost said.

One of the strategies staff use to improve routine is to take patients outside to enjoy sunlight, fresh air and change in surrounds.

“For patients who have been in ICU for an extended period, simple pleasures like being able to see and feel the sun, some greenery or a breeze has a remarkable impact on their healing,” Ms Trost said.

“One patient told us that being able to go outside made all the difference; it brightened her day, gave her something to look forward to and made her more determined to improve. She wasn’t expected to live, but thankfully, she’s now back at home and caring for herself.”

The ICU courtyard project aims to see the creation of a sensory garden incorporating respiratory-safe plants, a weather-proof covered area and a more practical entry for patient beds and equipment.

“This project is something we as nurses feel particularly passionate about,” Ms Schofield said.

“We want to enhance local patient amenities and at the same time give our community an insight into the different aspects of our work.”

It is hoped the area will become a sanctuary of sorts for families and visitors of patients who are critically unwell, as well as provide staff who work in an often stressful and emotional environment a place of respite during their breaks.