Grace Children’s Hospital Prepares for COVID-19 Cases

Throughout Haiti, GCH is universally renowned for the management of pulmonary diseases and tuberculosis.  It is reasonable to assume that patients with cough, fever and breathing distress will turn to the hospital for help during this crisis, said GCH Medical Director Derius Rony, MD, OBGYN, MGSS.

No rapid testing is available in Haiti today, which means every incoming patient is considered a suspicious case. Staff must follow strict precautions that include social distancing, because “science tells us 80% of patients are asymptomatic,” he explained.

“While every day comes with challenges, we are doing our best to keep the hospital running while protecting our staff and the population [at large],” Dr. Rony added.

To ensure the safety of all, these key precautions have been identified at GCH:

1. COVID training for all employees
2. Use of masks and protective eyeglasses, (although eyeglasses are currently in short supply)
3. Vigilant hand washing, with soap and water available throughout the hospital
4. Cloth masks for patients
5. Testing will be implemented when it becomes available

Grace Children’s Hospital needs your help more than ever as its staff prepares for COVID-19. Your donation helps with much needed supplies, including protective equipment like eyeglasses, which help to keep the staff safe as they provide care. To donate, visit here.