Kathmandu, August 28
A hospital in Sanga of Kavre has mobilised infected health workers in the treatment of Covid-19 patients after uninfected health workers were not sufficiently available.
However, it does not involve any risk as both groups do not have any symptomatic case, and concerned government agencies, as well as the patients, have consented to the model, informs Dr Raju Dhakal, Spinal Injury Rehabilitation Centre’s Medical Director.
Further, the health workers have adopted all possible precautions including level-three personal protective equipment, Dr Dhakal says. Similarly, the hospital has made it mandatory for the patients to use masks and face shields.
Currently, there are nine infected health workers including one doctor, two physiotherapists, five nurses, and one paramedic in the hospital. Likewise, there are nine other infected persons including eight patients undergoing treatment there and one of their relative taking care of a patient.
Around two weeks ago, a security guard working at the centre had tested positive for coronavirus. Then, his contact was traced to find more cases within the hospital.
“In addition, we have collected swab samples of other 120 people here,” Dr Dhakal says, “Their results are awaited. I think we will add a few more cases then.”
The hospital has prepared a separate isolation ward for symptomatic cases whereas they could be referred to other hospitals also if need be, according to him.
The hospital is taking care of 51 spinal injury patients currently.
