CHI Williston gets renovated operating suites

WILLISTON, N.D. (KUMV) - Most of the services from CHI St. Alexius Williston have been under the same building for 50 years. This week, they completed a makeover of their operating suites.

After they were relocated to the outpatient surgery center next door over an HVAC issue four years ago, CHI Williston officials decided to rehaul the entire space.

Chief Medical Officer and Surgeon Dr. Wayne Anderson said it adds more space through the area.

“It’s great to have the room so we’re not tripping over each other. Once you start on the procedure, you’re pretty much confined to wherever you’re working, but at least there’s enough room for people to move around and go to one side of the table or the other without bumping into three people along the way,” said Dr. Anderson.

The remodel also includes some modernization in the PACU, where patients recover after going under anesthesia.

“With the upgrade with the new system and stuff, it’s just making our technology improved so we’re on the same lines with other facilities so that we can compete and give that good quality care at home,” said Tiffany Enno, a registered nurse.

Overall, the staff is excited to see the renovation come to fruition.

“The space was getting old and outdated. We needed a new HVAC system and it’s very nice that we have these new facilities here in Williston,” said Dr. Andrew McCoy, a general surgeon.

The remodel is just one of the large-scale projects in store for CHI Williston.

President Garrick Hyde also said they plan to move the ER to the outpatient surgery facility next door. The hospital will also build an inpatient Behavioral Health Unit with nine beds.

Hyde also held a dedication for the hospital chapel in honor of Father Raymond Aydt and announced the cafeteria and gift shop would be named in honor of Phyllis Stokke and Marilyn McGinley, two long-time employees.

“They are very beloved in this organization,” said Hyde.