Gundersen Moundview Hospital and Clinics has implemented precautionary measures to keep staff and patients safe amid the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and is prepared to handle an influx of COVID-19 patients.
"We knew it was only a matter of time before a COVID-19 case would occur in Adams County," said Frank Perez-Guerra, administrator, Gundersen Moundview Hospital and Clinics. "We've been preparing for this. Our staff have the proper personal protective equipment and procedures in place to protect themselves and our patients. We also have the resources of Gundersen Health System's La Crosse Hospital for coordination of care as needed."
Gundersen Health System's ongoing preparedness for COVID-19 include deploying necessary supplies, providing staff education, adding negative pressure units and other modifications. In addition, Gundersen implemented visitor restrictions, shifted clinic appointments and postponed elective procedures.
"Gundersen Moundview has implemented all systemwide procedures," said Judy Nowicki, quality and infection control director at Gundersen Moundview. "We also have the ability to add more patient beds as needed and have plans to adjust staff roles to ensure we can meet increased patient needs."
"In addition, we've increased cleaning measures throughout the facility, we're checking the temperatures of everyone, including staff, who enter our building and have added precautionary workflows," said Nowicki. "We continue to work closely with the local public health department and monitor state and CDC guidelines for patient and staff safety."
Gundersen Moundview reminds area residents they should call the hospital at (608) 339-3331 if they have a fever or respiratory symptoms before visiting. The hospital and clinic staff use CDC screening risk assessment guidelines to determine if someone should be tested for COVID-19. Individuals are tested only if they meet testing criteria.
"From staff floating to other departments to implementing new procedures, our employees have demonstrated flexibility, resiliency and the utmost dedication," Perez-Guerra said. "Gundersen Moundview is committed to the safety of our employees, patients and communities we serve."
The community can support local healthcare workers by following the Wisconsin Safer-at-Home order and the CDC's guidance on COVID-19 to help slow the virus and flatten the curve of its spread.
Gundersen will continue to post reliable, up-to-date information at gundersenhealth.org/covid19 and on Facebook.