[ Palms of Pasadena Hospital ] The Continent Ostomy Center enjoys the excellent reputation of the Palms of Pasadena Hospital, built upon years of success in delivering high quality health services.

As a 307-bed acute care hospital, Palms of Pasadena offers a full range of medical/surgical and specialty services, with full accreditation by Joint Commission.

More than 200 physicians, board-certified or board-eligible, representing more than 30 specialties, are on the medical staff. Supported by 750 clinicians, technicians and other staff, these physicians bring you the level of technology and personalized care you can expect.

The Continent Ostomy Center at Palms of Pasadena Hospital is in a beautiful setting. It overlooks Boca Ciega Bay in sunny St. Petersburg, a year round vacation and recreation center of Florida's suncoast.

[ Dr. James Pollack with patient Patrick Stefanick ] We want your stay at Palms of Pasadena Hospital to be as comfortable as possible. Our BCIR patients make their new home away from home on a unit called '2 Bayview'. Each room is designed for private accommodations with space reserved for a cot/recliner should a relative or support person want to stay with you during your hospitalization, at no additional charge. A guest meal tray will be provided complementary for one family member. There is also a cafeteria in the hospital and restaurants/fast food establishments within walking distance of the hospital.

You will probably wear your hospital gown for the first few days following surgery. Further into your recovery, you may wish to wear street clothes such as sweatsuits, shorts, large t-shirt or oversized night shirt. Whatever you select, it should be loose fitting and comfortable. You will be able to walk on hospital grounds; therefore, for your safety and comfort, shoes are recommended.

A washer and dryer are located on the floor near your room for your convenience. We recommend traveling light.

Bring personal photos of family members and friends. Certain hobbies/ crafts are good to pass the time, such as needlework, knitting, crossword puzzles, reading materials, playing cards, etc.

[ BCIR staff ] The major airport servicing the Tampa Bay area is Tampa International. Transportation from the airport to the hospital is available using van service, rental car, or taxi cab services.

It is our feeling that the postoperative care is as important as the surgical technique and one needs to be involved with ongoing care of this specialized surgical procedure in order to maintain proficiency. To accomplish this, we have a core team of health care providers who have been identified as BCIR staff. A team philosophy is at the core of this program and the team leader is a Registered Nurse. He/she has completed a training program including proctoring and has demonstrated competency in taking care of this type of surgical patient. In other words, you won't find an orthopedic nurse 'floating' to the BCIR unit to care for you.

[ Susan Kay, R.N. ] Susan Kay, R.N., coordinates the day to day operations of the BCIR program at Palms of Pasadena Hospital. She acts as a liaison among the hospital, the patient and surgeon and will be available early on in the process. She will help coordinate all your needs in preparation for an admission which she does by phone contact.

If you'd like to find out more about the BCIR or about us, please e-mail Susan Kay or give her a call at 1-866-438-7330.

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