Unit 44 at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital is buzzing and whirring with change—walls are taking shape, rooms are evolving, and the vision for a more patient-centered environment is becoming reality. From dietitians and therapists to construction crews and patient advocates, everyone is playing a role in shaping this transformative space designed to enhance healing and comfort.
For Mikayla “Kay” Mae Stis, MPH, RDN, LDN, IBCLC, every day is an opportunity to help children thrive. As a clinical pediatric registered dietitian nutritionist, she crafts personalized recommendations to address nutrition-related challenges imposed by various medical conditions, like optimizing energy intake for infants with congenital heart defects or tailoring nutrition support regimens for children with intestinal failure and malabsorption. The renovations on Unit 44 promise to elevate her work, offering private rooms where consultations with families can happen in a calm, distraction-free space.
“Private rooms will make meetings with individual patients and their respective families more enjoyable by making them feel more comfortable,” Stis said. “Additionally, I am looking forward to having a larger, collaborative space on the unit to easily meet with and learn from other interdisciplinary team members.”
Physical and occupational therapists also anticipate the benefits of the renovation project.
Rehab manager, Martyne Hofle, noted that private rooms mean more focused therapy sessions, where previously space and privacy needs had to be navigated. From helping a child take their first steps after surgery to practicing daily tasks, these new features will enrich the therapy experience and interventions.
“The addition of a procedure room with a shower will allow therapy staff to participate in dressing changes and other procedures where having therapy present will enhance care,” said Hofle.
But it’s not just the renovations that are making an impact; it’s the way the journey is being shared. On Unit 45, Hannah Wynn, Patient Experience specialist and her team have turned the construction noise into moments of fun and empowerment for patients.
Pediatric patients have become honorary “construction workers,” complete with gifts of hard hats, foam hammers, and rubber ducks.
“The new construction workers are more than happy to play their part,” said Wynn.
To further ease the disruption, families also received thoughtful care packages with earplugs, eye masks, headphones, and brochures with information about the project.
As the renovation advances, the vision for Unit 44 grows ever closer to reality. With its upgraded spaces, private rooms, and cutting-edge amenities, this overhauled unit represents not just a physical transformation but a commitment to compassionate, innovative care. From nutrition and therapy to construction and patient advocacy, every effort is a step toward helping children heal and thrive in a place built just for them. For construction updates, renovation renderings, and more information on this project, visit giving.UFHealth.org/BuiltForKids.
units 44 and 45 renovation at uf health shands children's hospital
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