Adventist Health Castle | Windward Health | Fall 2020

INSIDE THIS ISSUE See how we’re providing safe emergency and primary care At Adventist Health Castle, we understand you might have unsettled feelings about emergency care right now. Every medical emergency is stressful, but one during the current circumstances can cause even more concern. Our Emergency Department (ER) staff has taken precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and help ensure that your visit to the ER is as safe as possible. •  Screening at all entrances. Everyone entering is screened for COVID-19 signs and symptoms, and temperature checks are performed for patients and associates. •  Universal face mask policy. You’ll notice our staff wearing personal protective equipment, including face masks and goggles. All patients and visitors are required to wear a face mask in the medical center as well. •  Separate care areas for patients who are sick. For everyone’s safety, we’re treating patients suspected or confirmed of having COVID-19 in designated areas, away from patients with other health needs. •  Social distancing in waiting rooms. Look for floor markers and seat signs that indicate where it’s safe to stand and sit. You’ll also see clear, protective shields in receptionist areas. •  Frequent cleaning and disinfecting. ER waiting areas, rooms, restrooms and surfaces are cleaned and disinfected often to accommodate updated COVID-19 hospital cleaning protocols. What’s an emergency? Here are some of the most serious situations* that warrant an immediate call to 911 and a trip to the ER: •  Coughing up or vomiting blood. •  Head injury or any other major injury. •  Heart attack symptoms (tightness in the chest and arm, shortness of breath, nausea, light-headedness). •  Loss of consciousness. •  Poisoning or drug overdose. •  Severe burns. •  Severe COVID-19 symptoms, including shortness of breath. •  Sudden and severe headache. •  Severe, persistent abdominal pain. •  Shortness of breath. •  Stroke symptoms (facial droop, arm weakness, speech difficulties). •  Suicidal feelings. *These are general guidelines. If you aren’t certain whether a visit to the ER is necessary, head to the ER for an evaluation. Windward Severe COVID-19 symptoms? Call ahead, so ER staff can prepare to safely meet your needs. ER team, from left: Stephanie Burger, DO; Nathan Johnson, RN; Christopher Hipsher, RN; and Maile Kenny, RN. go to the ER for emergencies HEALTH Fall 2020 Yes, you can (and should)