Teams at Royal Columbian Hospital are in the final stages of preparing for the opening of the new Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower, with a full-scale rehearsal aimed at ensuring a smooth and safe transition for patients.

Hospital officials say more than 300 patients will be relocated into the new facility, with planning underway in coordination with Health Care Relocations.

The rehearsal tested key logistics, including patient transport routes, elevator use, staffing and communication, as teams timed transfers to improve efficiency while maintaining patient comfort and safety.

Chief clinical planner Ramona Fonseka said the exercise helped ensure staff are prepared and focused on patient experience during the move.

Officials say dozens of teams — including nurses, physicians, porters and support staff — will be involved on move day, with colour-coded roles to streamline coordination.

The new tower, expected to open this spring, will include expanded emergency and intensive care services, as well as mostly private patient rooms designed to support comfort and recovery.