FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Brenda Crissman
Public Information Officer
Wickenburg Community Hospital
[email protected]
928-684-3219
WICKENBURG, AZ (May 12, 2020) – Wickenburg Community Hospital & Clinics (WCH) reports its first patient to test positive for COVID-19. “Due to expanded testing criteria, we were able to identify the patient who exhibited mild symptomology. The patient was not hospitalized and is currently recovering in isolation at home,” stated Karen Smith RN, Infection Prevention Manager. “In adherence to privacy laws and confidentiality reasons, we cannot disclose the patient’s name or any other personal identifiers,” Smith said.
In her role as Infection Prevention Manager, Karen Smith remains in close contact with state and local officials and, serves as the Employee Contact Tracing agent who coordinates with department manager(s) and coworkers who may have been potentially exposed to the patient.
“Our Health Care Team has fully expected to see COVID-positive cases since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We embrace our important role as a health care leader and have the capacity and the capability to properly diagnose and treat COVID-positive patients without placing the community at a greater risk of exposure,” stated Jim Tavary, WCH President and CEO.
As ongoing health care is very important for both the sick and well patient, numerous precautionary measures to reduce exposure have been implemented at WCH to ensure a safe and secure environment for both patients and staff. In addition to an increased disinfection protocol, WCH has implemented a telehealth program, curbside patient registration, well-patient clinic hours, temperature screening and mask wearing for all patients and employees who enter its facilities, amongst other assurances. For more information about Wickenburg Community Hospital and Clinics and covid-19 related information please visit https://www.wickhosp.com/coronavirus-news/
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