British Columbia Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) is preparing for the worst-case scenario – the coronavirus infecting residents in Âé¶¹¾«Ñ¡.
This is just a test. Our and health partners are undertaking a response exercise @ General Hospital today. Paramedics routinely follow infection protocols including use of face shields, masks, gloves, gowns and safety glasses.
— Emerg Health Services (@BC_EHS)
Local paramedics and health partners underwent training today (March 5) to practice treating patients infected with the virus during an emergency response exercise at Âé¶¹¾«Ñ¡ General Hospital.
According to BC Emergency Health Services, the training is a routine exercise.
“When paramedics attend a patient with potential coronavirus exposure, infection control procedures are immediately enacted, including full protective gear and provincial health notifications,” said the BCEHS in a tweet.
Paramedics used face shields, masks, gloves, gowns, and safety glasses during their training, which they will wear if the situation presents itself in real life. A dummy was also used as a patient.
Official training @ General Hospital today for response to -19. When attend a patient w/ potential exposure, infection control procedures are immediately enacted, including full protective gear and provincial health notifications.
— Emerg Health Services (@BC_EHS)
COVID-19 symptoms include fever, coughing, shortness of breath, and muscle aches.
As of March 5, there are 34 people infected in Canada, including 13 cases in B.C.
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