This is the verbatim text of a news released issued by Grays Harbor Community Hospital Wednesday afternoon:
On Wednesday April 22, 2020 Grays Harbor Community Hospital (GHCH) received notification that a healthcare worker who worked April 6 – April 16 has tested positive for COVID-19. The healthcare worker left GHCH Thursday evening after noticing COVID-like symptoms, and they were tested Friday morning. The results were returned Monday as negative. As a safeguard, the healthcare worker was retested and today GHCH was informed of a positive result.
While at the hospital, the healthcare worker wore either a surgical mask or N95 appropriately. The only time they did not have their mask on was during lunch. The healthcare worker was never at GHCH East Campus during the time of potential infection. The healthcare worker also works at other health facilities so the source of initial infection is undetermined.
Acting upon recommendations by John C. Bausher, MD, PhD – Health Officer, Grays Harbor County, starting immediately all healthcare workers and medical staff coming to Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s Main Campus must enter and exit only through the Main Lobby or ER Entrance. Upon entering the building, healthcare workers and providers will have their temperature checked and be issued a mask to wear during their shift. These new entrance and exit procedures will continue through Thursday, April 30th. At that time GHCH administration will consult Grays Harbor Public Health to develop an evidenced based procedure for moving forward. All concerned healthcare workers and medical providers will be tested.
At this time, East Campus / Harbor Medical Group entrance procedures will not change from their current state. However, there will be no visitation between the East and Main campuses unless it is part of an essential job function. All meetings will happen via telepresence or conference call.
We recognize that this may bring up concerns for those scheduled to or considering coming to Grays Harbor Community Hospital. Please know that we are taking even greater precautions with mandatory health checks and mandatory mask wearing for all who enter, to ensure the safety of both patients and staff.
