Media Statement: Novel Coronavirus (COVID–19)
March 6, 2020
Lourdes Health is committed to providing the highest quality care and ensuring the safety of our patients, employees, providers, volunteers and visitors. We are continuing to work closely with the Benton Franklin Health District and are following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure our hospitals are prepared with the appropriate plans to detect, protect and respond should anyone in our community contract or be exposed to the novel coronavirus (COVID–19). Additionally, we are reviewing our facilities’ robust emergency operations plan and proactively completing a number of preparation checklists out of an abundance of caution.
For updates on confirmed cases within Benton & Franklin Counties, please refer to the Benton Franklin Department of Health. We have taken the following measures to prepare, in accordance with CDC guidelines:
- Patients in the Emergency Department, on inpatient units and in our clinics are screened for symptoms plus recent travel history.
- Personal protective equipment such as masks, gowns, gloves and face shields are available.
- Hand hygiene products are easily accessible throughout the facility.
- Coordinated planning, preparedness and staff training is ongoing.
Importantly, all of the above are standard operating protocols that are in place year-round to help ensure the health and well-being of everyone who enters our hospital.
We want to assure our community that our providers and clinical teams are well-trained and prepared to manage outbreaks of viruses and infectious diseases, including the coronavirus. For the most up-to-date information, contact Washington State DOH or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.