Triage tents at O’Fallon hospitals to help screen patients with coronavirus symptoms
St. Elizabeth Hospital and Memorial Hospital East, both in O’Fallon, have set up triage tents outside where patients with respiratory symptoms can be screened for coronavirus.
The screening areas minimize risk for other patients at the hospital, hospital officials say.
“We are taking these extra measures in separating possible COVID-19 patients to further protect our community and colleagues,” said St. Elizabeth Hospital Emergency Department Manager Erin Hazen.
There is no tent at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, but a pre-screening area has also been established to pre-screen patients before they enter the emergency room.
According to a statement from the hospital, registration and standard patient intake processes will occur in the tent. If a patient is suspected of having COVID-19 or found to be in severe respiratory distress, they will be taken into the hospital’s emergency department through an alternate door with direct access to a prepared room for further evaluation.
“The intent of mobilizing the tent is to screen those who have or may have a fever along with other symptoms, such as cough and shortness of breath,” Hazen said. “Patients who present with other emergent issues and non-COVID-19 symptoms will be directed to proceed into the building at the normal entrance.”
Hospital officials say they are following Center for Disease Control and public health authority guidelines to evaluate those who self-refer or are directed by their doctor to have a screening.
The hospital also urged anyone experiencing symptoms to use its Anytime Care app for a virtual assessment.
“Using Anytime Care helps patients minimize possible exposure to COVID-19 with a virtual visit,” said Melinda Clark, chief executive officer of HSHS Medical Group. “Anytime Care providers are equipped to assess patients who may be experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and provide instructions on next steps for the patient’s health and the safety of those around them.”
This story was originally published April 1, 2020 at 12:35 PM.