Washington hospital staff says its prepared for new COVID surge

WASHINGTON - Though concerns are high regarding COVID-19, Washington County Hospital and Clinics says they are prepared.

In a news release from the hospital, it states the hospital has implemented many steps to ensure the safety of the patients and health care workers while continuing to provide medical care.

The hospital and clinics have acquired personal protective equipment for workers.

Along with additional protective equipment, Washington Hospital and Clinics has purchased new equipment and increased testing capabilities. They offer the antigen quick test, antibody testing and when appropriate confirmatory testing.

The hospital is in contact with regional hospitals in 16 Iowa counties to stay comparable in hospital capacity, positivity rates and testing capabilities.

'Similar to many Iowa counties, Washington County has witnessed an increase in infectivity rates,” according to the news release.

Even though there is an increase in cases, it has not created a significant number of COVID-19 related admissions to the hospital, according to the release.

When visiting the hospital, face masks are required.

There are still restrictions in place for visitors.

' Emergency Department: one visitor is permitted into the ER with a patient and must stay in the designated room with the patient.

' Primary Care Clinics and Ancillary Services: one visitor is permitted to accompany a patient to their appointment and will stay with the patient for the duration of their appointment.

' Inpatient Unit: one visitor per day during the limited visitor hours of noon to 6 p.m. The visitor is required to stay in the patient's room.

'WCHC has the capacity, supplies, and is well organized to meet the concerns of our patient's whether it is with the coronavirus, influenza, or other illnesses,” according to the news release.