Midland Memorial Hospital made changes to ensure a safe environment for patients who need to come to the emergency department, the company said in a release.
Midland Health wanted to make sure the processes in place at the emergency department would keep patients safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic, like making sure everyone was wearing masks.
Just requiring masks regardless of the reason for coming to the emergency department has decreased the coronavirus spread and has been an easy thing to implement at the ward, Midland Health said in a recent blog post.
"In the ED, we also have tried to ensure quick, efficient care to all of our patients," the Midland Health post said. "This prompt, efficient care has led to little time spent in the waiting room. The waiting room has been set up to assist with social distancing by the spacing of chairs and there are increased rounds to clean all the furniture by our Environmental Services staff."
The post also noted that all surfaces are cleaned with bleach between every patient.
Midland Health also decided to implement a different treatment area for acutely ill people and their COVID-19 status is unknown to ensure the hospital minimizes the potential exposure to patients and other staff.
According to the post, those areas are in a negative pressure area with a separate filtration system. Once the status of the patient's COVID-19 test comes back, the patient is then moved to a regular room.
"All these measures and more have been implemented to ensure the safest possible environment for our patients and staff," according to the Midland Health post. "So, if you find yourself in need of the ED, please know that you will be taken care of by awesome nurses and doctors in the cleanest and safest environment."