Cornwall Hospital is Prepared for Virus Season
2022-11-23
With
influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 cases on the
rise locally and across the country, Cornwall Community Hospital (CCH) wishes
to reassure our community that we are prepared for the surge of patients
suffering from respiratory illness.
Our
Emergency Department has implemented an action plan to address a rise in
paediatric patients arriving with symptoms of RSV, and additional beds have
been allocated for paediatric patients in our Women and Children’s Health
Department. CCH also has Respiratory Therapists working 24/7; these certified
medical professionals specialize in treating individuals who are having trouble
breathing.
As
we enter this respiratory virus season, our Emergency Department continues to
see extremely high patient volumes, and like most hospitals throughout the
province, CCH is managing a health human resources shortage. Despite this, our
committed healthcare teams are working their hardest to ensure there are no
service disruptions and that every person can receive exceptional care, no
matter the circumstance.
When
coming to the Emergency Department, please remember that patients are triaged
based on the severity of their symptoms and the sickest patients are always
seen first. We understand this may seem frustrating for those who have been
waiting a long time for care, but it allows us to prioritize life saving and
urgent procedures. We ask that you be kind and respectful with our staff and
physicians, who are doing their best during these challenging times.
You
can do your part to help slow the spread of respiratory illness in the coming
months by getting your flu shot and COVID-19 booster. For the protection of our
staff, physicians, and vulnerable patients, wearing a mask is still always
required while in the hospital.
While we may
not be able to predict how the coming months will unfold, Cornwall Hospital and
our committed healthcare teams are ready to answer the call.