Our infection prevention team has
- put screening procedures in place in the emergency department and Family Care Clinics, and at every registration point
- trained staff to screen every patient and family member
- reviewed recommended personal protective equipment use with frontline staff
- continued following hospital procedure for an event at this level which includes regular tactical meetings, ensuring supplies are adequate for potential scenarios and conservation methods when needed
- regular contact and coordination with federal, state and local authorities including the Bates County Health Department and Bates County Emergency Management
- made masks available to patients presenting with respiratory illness – please ask for a mask at registration
A new disease can be a little frightening. It is important to remain informed of the facts and to guide your family in the best infection prevention practices for respiratory illness, including influenza, which is still circulating in our area:
§ Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
§ Wash your hands often and avoid touching your face (eyes, nose, and mouth).
§ Stay home and away from others when you are sick, except to seek medical attention.
§ Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue then throw the tissue in the trash.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is a reliable source of information for learning about this outbreak as well as how to protect yourself. The hospital has supplied fact sheets from the CDC about COVID-19 in all waiting areas at the hospital and clinics as well as their website at www.bcmhospital.com.
