Hospital level four, east wing declared area to treat COVID-19 inpatients
On March 26 Public Health declared an outbreak on 4 East. Staff in the unit quickly stepped up to the plate. They were able to adapt quickly to continuously changing policies on how to manage this patient population. They placed suspect and positive patients in isolation with droplet contact protocol precautions so any patient contact required staff to wear masks with full face shields, gowns and gloves. Since then, the unit has been designated to care for all COVID-positive inpatients at the hospital.
On April 9, the outbreak was declared over by Public Health. It was an absolute victory over the virus and proved how skilled staff are at infection prevention and control. The 4 East medicine team is cohesive and close-knit with a high level of trust for one another. Their focus on patient safety, as well as their own personal safety, allowed them to identify what was working well and to provide constructive suggestions on areas to be improved. They provide a high quality of care with a focus on hand hygiene, cleaning high contact surfaces and diligent use of their personal protective equipment (PPE).
With strict visitor restrictions helping to protect everyone, the 4 East team partnered with other hospital staff to bring in a new Virtual Visit program. Using generously donated tablets, the nurses learned the technology and video messaging platforms such as Zoom. Every day, they work extra hard to find ways to offer care and comfort and to make their patients’ stay as positive as possible given the challenging circumstances.
We are so proud of everyone who works in the unit for implementing the highest standards around infection control, isolation protocol and use of PPE. Thanks to all who have worked on 4 East during this pandemic. You have been amazing! Community members who need to be admitted as a result of COVID-19 are in great hands!
