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Red Deer hospital creates more space for COVID-19 patients

Active COVID-19 cases increase in central Alberta
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Alberta Health Services says the short stay/day surgery inpatient unit at Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre has been temporarily closed to ensure enough acute care space is available for COVID-19 patients. (File photo by Advocate staff)

Hospitals in Red Deer and other central Alberta communities have been prepared for the admission of COVID-19 patients.

Alberta Health Services said in a statement Tuesday that the short stay/day surgery inpatient unit at Red Deer hospital has been temporarily closed, as was done earlier this year, to ensure enough acute care space is available for COVID-19 patients.

Additional bed capacity has also been created within the hospital to help. There are beds, equipment and staff available for the increased demand, said AHS.

“This work is being done in conjunction with the measures already in place in the community, which are designed to limit transmission of COVID-19. The goal is to limit the number of people who will need hospital care as much as possible, while also ensuring our hospital is ready and able to cope with this surge in patients,” the statement said.

Related:

Alberta confirms 368 COVID-19 cases Monday: 11 active in Red Deer, 131 in central zone

Asymptomatic COVID-19 testing available in Red Deer

AHS said it is understandable that people want to resume their everyday lives in work and play. But the reality is this pandemic is not over, so people need to continue to protect one another, it said.

“By taking simple, everyday actions, we can help limit the spread, particularly to those most at risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19. Stay two metres apart when you can, and wear a mask when you can’t.

“Wash or sanitize your hands. Stay home if you are sick and get tested.”



szielinski@reddeeradvocate.com

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