SVMHS adds second COVID-19 unit for patients needing hospitalization
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital staff announced an increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations has led the hospital to add a second unit dedicated to treating those who have the coronavirus.
“We cannot get to the dangerous point of taxing hospital capacity, and that appears a very real possibility right now,” said Pete Delgado, President/CEO of Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System.
Hospital staff tell KION they're currently treating more than 20 people for COVID-19 through the Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System.
Testing-wise, staff reported 302 people had tested positive at SVMHS. That number has since more than doubled and stands at 736 positive cases.
Around this time last month SVMHS also saw only nine people hospitalized and receiving medical care compared to 22 now.
“We know what works in helping to slow the spread,” said Delgado. “It’s simple and we must not get complacent. Wear a face covering. Wash your hands frequently and practice social distancing, even when you’re outside. It’s not too late to turn things around.”
SVMHS has also expanded hours for its free COVID-19 hotline. Through that program, registered nurses will be able to answer questions from the public as well as from provider officers every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
