PBRMC puts COVID-19 safety precautions in place, urges residents not to delay care

Wearing a mask, Shanna Thornton dished up lunch at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center on Wednesday afternoon as staff followed social distancing guidelines as directed by the Centers for Disease Control.

In another part of the hospital, environmental services team member Mary Champion cleaned railings on an inpatient floor and Peggy Teasdale checked patients in from behind a safety shield in a cardiovascular office.

Temperature checks are also conducted as people arrive at the Oak Grove Road campus.

Patricia Massey checks a person's temperature as they arrive at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, one of many measures in place to ensure patient and staff safety.

Life at PBRMC looks a lot different than it did before COVID-19, but staff also want residents to know they are taking every precaution and are resuming important services.

They want the public to know it is safe to seek medical care, and they should not delay critical care out of fear of COVID-19.

“We have seen a significant decline in emergency room visits while those that are coming in seem to be waiting until they are very ill,” said Lacey McClintock, director of marketing and community relations. “We often hear from patients that their fear of COVID caused them to wait until they were in severe distress or had a life-threatening emergency.”

It is safe to come in when symptoms present, said McClintock, explaining that PBRMC is educating team members on infection prevention protocols established by the CDC for COVID-19.

“Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center is used to responding in times of crisis,” said Bryan S. Bateman, chief executive officer, “But, this pandemic is unlike anything any of us has ever experienced. And, we know it has created anxiety for many people, especially when it comes to seeking health care services.

“… you can count on us to maintain a safe environment for patients and employees.”

The facility is going above and beyond normal efforts to protect patients and staff, he said. In addition to thorough cleaning, everyone who enters is being screened and given face masks and other personal protective equipment. PBRMC has adequate protective equipment on hand at this time, said McClintock.

Administration has also rearranged areas to allow for social distancing.

“(In) the event we ever do have any patients with COVID-19 at the hospital, we are caring for them in an area that is separate and isolated from the rest of the hospital,” said Bateman. “Of course, our cleaning staff is disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and doing a terrific job of keeping the hospital clean.”

People with serious emergencies, including heart attacks and stroke, are waiting too long for medical care, Bateman said.

“Getting fast medical treatment could be the difference between life and death – so please, don’t ignore or rationalize the signs of a health emergency. Call 911, come to the hospital, and get the help you need,” he said. “The same goes for chronic conditions and even routine health care needs.

“Many of our doctors offer telehealth visits for those who prefer not to come into the office. But, if an in-person visit is required, we are keeping our offices safe – so you can visit your doctor, if needed.”

Bateman said he is proud of the way the PBRMC team has stepped up, and of everyone in the community who stayed home to help flatten the curve and limit the spread of COVID-19. He also thanked the community for the meals, homemade masks, cards and other support shown in recent weeks for health care workers.

“Standing together we have seen how powerful our human connection really is,” Bateman said. “So, keep standing together – but stay six feet apart. Wash your hands frequently. Tell someone how much you appreciate them.

“And, if you need health care, please don’t be afraid. We are here and prepared to care for you, and also to keep you safe.”

Visitors are still limited to the facility, as part of efforts to protect patients and staff.

Exceptions include:

• One parent or legal guardian of the patient who is a minor.

• Patients requiring a caregiver will be allowed one person.

• Patients at end-of-life may have a limited number of visitors who must remain in the room the duration of the visit.

• Obstetric patients will be allowed one support person.