Strict screening measures to protect hospitals from COVID-19
Thu Hang -
(VOVWORLD) - A new strain of coronavirus in Vietnam has caused the COVID-19 epidemic to spread rapidly in Da Nang and other provinces. Hundreds of infections have been connected to 5 hospitals and 8 people have died. When COVID-19 spreads in hospitals where many patients with other illnesses are being treated, the risk of fatality is high.
 Bach Mai hospital organizes training course for medical workers nationwide on COVID-19 prevention. (Photo: bachmai.edu.vn) |
The medical sector has enhanced preventive measures to protect hospitals from COVID-19. Nguyen Huu Dung, Head of the Artificial Kidney Department of Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi, said 200 patients have been transferred to other artificial kidney centers to reduce the pressure on Bach Mai hospital. “Patients arriving for artificial kidney treatment are arranged a separate lane, must wear a face mask, use hand disinfectant, and have their body temperature checked.”
In the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, two doctors at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases contracted the coronavirus. Do Minh Tan, Deputy Head of the Infection Control Department, talked about the hospital’s preparations: “We are doing our best to prevent cross-infections among patients, doctors, and medical personnel.”
Hospitals in Ho Chi Minh city have been asked to set up a general health check section and a COVID-19 screening room for the Emergency Department. Before being transferred to the Emergency Department, all patients will be checked for the coronavirus. Medical staff in the COVID-19 screening room must wear protective gear.
The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to continue indefinitely. Acting Minister of Health Nguyen Thanh Long has asked hospitals to screen suspected cases while ensuring complete safety for patients being treated. Patients with chronic diseases should be given enough prescription medicine for 3 months so they don’t have to visit a hospital during the pandemic.
Thu Hang