WVU Healthcare continues Ebola-readiness preparations

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – WVU Healthcare has been monitoring and following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocols on Ebola testing and management and is prepared to provide appropriate isolation and treatment for patients, if necessary.

The goal is to care for patients with the utmost compassion and professionalism – and to ensure the safety and health of employees and members of the community.

To ensure that WVU Healthcare staff and patients are safe, a designated area in the Ruby Memorial Hospital Emergency Department will be used for screening and management of potential patients. The area that currently serves as Vertical Care has been adapted to be a self-contained Infection Prevention and Containment Unit (IPCU) with five isolation rooms. The IPCU includes a bio hood, lab services, and specific rooms for donning and doffing protective clothing and equipment.

Patients who arrive at the Emergency Department with symptoms, such as high fever, vomiting, and nausea, will be screened in the IPCU using protocols recommended by the CDC.

The physicians, nurses, and other health professionals at WVU Healthcare are experienced and trained in emergency preparedness.

A WVU Healthcare Ebola Task Force, led by Rashida Khakoo, M.D., includes key people in emergency medicine, infectious diseases, nursing, and many other areas throughout the hospital who have been preparing to provide appropriate care for patients with Ebola. Teams are working together to educate and prepare staff at all levels on the latest protocols.

WVU Healthcare experts are also working with county and state health departments, area hospitals, and emergency management officials to manage the potential for cases here.