HRMC Prepared for Safe Care

March 12, 2020

March 12, 2020, HRMC Prepared for Safe Care

HURON, SD – Huron Regional Medical Center is actively working with the South Dakota Department of Health (SD DOH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to stay prepared to manage coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

“We’re prepared to deliver safe care,” said Pam Shoultz, RN, infection control nurse. “Staff is trained to safely accommodate patients with infectious diseases. If a COVID-19 case is presented, HRMC has the proper facility and is trained in the workflow with the CDC and SD DOH and will collaborate with other partners and local authorities as needed.

“To help reduce the risk of spreading infections, if you have respiratory symptoms or are feeling ill, please do not come to the hospital to visit others,” adds Shoultz.

Building the Pipeline

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. People with COVID-19 may experience mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath. According to the CDC:

• People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic.

• Spread primarily occurs through prolonged person-to-person contact.

• Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing can spread the virus within about six feet.

• Spread from contact with infected surfaces may be possible but is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Not everyone who develops symptoms of COVID-19 will need to be hospitalized. About 80 percent of patients can be treated at home. The rate of serious complications is only slightly higher than that of seasonal flu.

Typical symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing or a high temperature should call their healthcare provider immediately.

If you feel you might have COVID-19, it is important to call your healthcare provider first rather than going directly to a clinic or hospital. Healthcare professionals will determine if testing is needed.

Here’s how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it in the trash.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.

• Limit close contact with others if you are ill.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If unavailable, use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.

It is important for the public to understand that COVID-19 cases range from very mild to severe. While some cases have resulted in death, the majority are mild. Older adults and people with underlying conditions such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes may be at higher risk for serious illness.

Shoultz says visitor restrictions implemented in February will remain in effect as long as flu and respiratory virus cases remain widespread. Signs are posted at the hospital to alert visitors. Visitors may call 605-353-6200 or visit huronregional.org.

Additional reliable information is available at:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov
• South Dakota Department of Health
  doh.sd.gov/news/Coronavirus.aspx