Holy Cross Hospital staff has been planning diligently for several weeks to develop a complete response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Those efforts increased when the Governor’s office announced New Mexico’s first presumptive positive case Coronavirus (COVID-19). Multiple measures internally and externally have been implemented with staff working round the clock.
What are we working on at Holy Cross Hospital?
We have been coordinating with federal, state and local agencies in preparation for the Coronavirus outbreak.
As of today, there is one point of entrance into the hospital for patients and visitors. Those coming to the hospital should expect to see tents outside of the ED and signage directing them to the proper area. Holy Cross has implemented a questionnaire screening process to for all patients and visitors.
As planned, we have limited our visitation hours from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily allowing one visitor per day per person. Social distancing measures have been put in place in our waiting areas, hallways, meeting rooms and throughout the hospital.
The emergency helicopter that services the hospital will now land in the parking lot across the street in a designated spot. Additionally, the Wheeler Peak Café has been closed to the public until further notice. These are just a few of the new steps taken as a part of our emergency safety plan specific to COVID-19.
If you are experiencing a fever, respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath) or even mild flu-like symptoms, please limit community exposure. Stay home, limit contact with other people, and immediately contact your healthcare provider to discuss symptoms and any risk factors for COVID-19. Any individual who is symptomatic but does not have a healthcare provider should contact New Mexico Department of Health at (855-600-3453).