managing significant capacity pressures, with increased COVID-19 burden.
As of today, the High Acuity Unit (HAU) also known as their Level 2 ICU is at capacity with COVID-19 patients. This is the highest COVID-19 burden that the hospital has experienced since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Wave 3 is certainly affecting us a little differently,” says Jody Levac, President and CEO, SMH. “Our capacity has been pushed to the limit over the past two weeks and we expect that will continue as transmission of the variants of concern increases. Our staff have been doing an incredible job caring for these patients and following all infection control protocols while doing so, in addition to managing an increase of patients with advanced needs and ALC (alternate level of care) patients,” he adds.
Although the hospital has been experiencing pressures recently, including COVID-19 patients, SMH stresses the importance accessing health care when it’s needed the most.
“I will stand by my stance that we in acute care are not at the front lines, notwithstanding the messaging to the contrary,” says Dr. Barry Nathanson, Chief of Staff, SMH. “We are the last line of defense. Members of the public are the front line. Members of the public are the ones best able to lead us to a better outcome by adhering to public health guidelines and demanding the same of their fellow citizens.”
“No matter what, we are here for you at the very last line of defense. If you are unwell and believe you need care, Stevenson is ready,” Nathanson adds.
