West Texas News

Cogdell Memorial Hospital issued the following announcement.

The COVID-19 pandemic has, understandably, caused a lot of concern. As we all work together to mitigate the spread of the virus within our community, we want you to know that your health and safety are our priority. We are committed to providing you the quality, compassionate care you have come to trust from us.

Whether you suspect you have COVID-19 or are experiencing a serious illness or concerning symptoms, it is important to seek the appropriate medical treatment. Delaying such care out of fear of contracting the virus could worsen symptoms or result in a life-threatening situation. In a medical emergency, time is of the essence. The emergency department is open 24 hours a day and remains the safest place to receive care.  

Cogdell Memorial Hospital remains open and safe to provide care, including both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19-related illnesses. We have implemented rigorous policies and procedures to keep both patients and caregivers safe. Some of the measures we have taken to include the following: 

• Everyone entering the hospital must wear a facemask at all times
• Patients with COVID-19 are isolated from other patients
• Our team members wear personal protective equipment (respirators, face shields/goggles, gloves and gowns)
• Handwashing with soap and water or hand sanitizer gel is strictly enforced
• No visitors are allowed (except under extraordinary circumstances)
• All public areas are cleaned throughout the day using hospital-grade disinfectants (all patient rooms, patient care areas and equipment are thoroughly cleaned between patients using appropriate disinfectants. Additional cleaning using bleach products is completed in all rooms and areas occupied by a COVID patient)
• All healthcare personnel and any visitors are screened for COVID-19 symptoms prior to entering the hospital

 If you are concerned about your health or think you are experiencing a life-threatening condition, such as a heart attack or stroke, call 911 or your doctor, or seek care at the nearest emergency department. Typical signs and symptoms of a medical emergency include the following:

• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Trouble lifting your arms or weakness
• Fainting or loss of consciousness; dizziness, loss of vision
• Severe abdominal pain
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Severe vomiting or vomiting that includes blood
• Confusion or changes in cognitive function and behavior
• Feeling suicidal or homicidal
• Head or spinal injuries
• Injury due to a motor vehicle crash or other accident
• Ingestion of a poisonous or dangerous substance

 You are an important member of our community, and your health and safety matter. No matter the time of day or the emergency, our expert team is trained and ready to care for you.

Original source can be found here.