Is it safe to come to the emergency unit?
Yes, it is safe to visit the emergency unit; it is safer than to venture out into public places such as malls, shops, parks and even schools.
What procedures are in place when visiting the emergency unit? i.e. screening, social distancing, universal masking
All individuals visiting the hospital are thoroughly screened by healthcare professionals. All our healthcare professionals are screened daily and wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Individuals visiting the hospital and emergency unit can expect that their temperature will be taken, complete a questionnaire and evaluation before being permitted entry. Life Cosmos Hospital has strict protocols in place to ensure the safety of patients, doctors and employees: ▪ All individuals who enter the facility have their hands sanitised and issued a surgical mask. ▪ Strict universal masking is adhered to. ▪ Strict social distancing is compulsory. ▪ In the emergency unit, persons under investigation (PUI) and Covid-19 positive patients are isolated in designated areas.
Can quick treatment improve recovery?
Yes. Do not ignore symptoms of stroke, heart attack, severe abdominal pain and severe headache or any symptoms that are out of the norm.
What happens if you neglect your chronic conditions?
When you neglect your chronic conditions, the chances of developing complications increase significantly. Examples: ▪ Hypertension can cause stroke, cardiovascular disease can cause heart attack, heart failure or kidney failure. ▪ Uncontrolled diabetes increase risk of kidney failure, circulation problems (for example limb ischemia), diabetic neuropathy, cardiovascular disease or stroke.
What is PPE’s?
PPE is an abbreviation for Personal Protective Equipment. In order to protect employees, doctors and patients, it is compulsory for all staff and doctors when on duty. PPE includes masks, facial visors, gloves, plastic aprons and gowns.
Does PPE’s get change between patients?
Yes, in order to prevent cross-contamination, PPE is changed between patients that are identified as PUI and Covid-19 positive.
Do you have separate wards for patients admitted with Covid-19?
Covid-19 PUI and positive patients are strictly isolated in either the Covid-19 Unit or Covid-19 ICU. These units have designated employees who only work in the Covid-19 units and designated equipment has been allocated for these units only.
I am Covid-19 positive and isolated at home, but my symptoms worsen. What do I do?
Should your symptoms worsen, do not delay treatment. Should you make use of an ambulance service, indicate that you are Covid-19 positive when you phone for assistance. Should you use your own transportation, please call Life Cosmos Hospital’s emergency unit on 013 653 8001 and advise the unit that you are on your way and that you are Covid-19 positive. The reason for this is to ensure that healthcare professionals can prepare accordingly to limit the spread of infection.
