The unit, at Derriford Hospital, was officially opened by health minister Hazel Blears.

The hospital says it will mean major improvements to patient care.

About 45,000 people a year came through A&E at the hospital 10 years ago - but now the figure is approaching 80,000.

Ms Blears said: "What I have seen here is quite a transformation.

"I was here a year ago, and the A&E department was cramped and dingy, but now the resuscitation room has doubled in size.

"It is able to cope with more patients more quickly and there's more privacy and dignity for patients as the cubicles are bigger."