Hospitals Take Extra Measures To Keep Moms & Babies Safe During Pandemic
March 19, 2021 at 11:19 p.m.
Hospitals Take Extra Measures To Keep Moms & Babies Safe During Pandemic
By Staff Report-
A total of 469 infants born within the past year at KCH have been a welcome sight in the midst of the global pandemic, according to a news release from Lutheran Health Network.
While the virus has changed many things in the world, The Birthplace at Kosciusko Community Hospital is a pleasant constant, located in a separate area to provide specialized care and services, the release states. A dedicated team of nurses, obstetricians and other caregivers work exclusively with the moms and babies through delivery and postpartum care.
“Helping a new mother bring her child into this world is very rewarding,” said Luis Gonzalez, MD, OB/GYN at Kosciusko Community Hospital. “Our Birthplace at KCH is designed with comfort and safety in mind and our compassionate team is committed to making this an exceptional, safe experience.”
Prenatal care remains critical and women are encouraged to stay in contact with their obstetrician and keep their appointments to be sure their pregnancy is on track. And once the baby is here, regular visits to the pediatrician are important to help them thrive.
The hospital and physician clinics keep the safety of their patients as the top priority. Many actions have been taken to enhance infection prevention and support social distancing to maintain a safe environment during the pandemic.
When an expectant mom arrives at the hospital, staff will check her temperature (as part of checking her vitals), test for COVID-19 and complete a screening questionnaire. Moms can have two designated visitors (including spouse or partner), but only one at a time. There are no visiting hour restrictions. Visitors must wear masks at all times.
“KCH is taking all necessary precautions for our moms and babies,” said Corrine Stokes, CNM, midwife at Kosciusko Community Hospital. “Hundreds of moms have their babies here each year and we give each the personalized care they need.”
Labor and delivery proceed as they always have and most adjacent procedures remain available. Tubal ligation after delivery is an option if a mother is negative for COVID-19 and circumcisions can also be performed. Breastfeeding is encouraged, even for moms who test positive for COVID-19 and can protect their infant by wearing a mask.
As for prenatal classes and postpartum support, virtual classes and online support groups have temporarily replaced onsite options. CPR classes are offered by appointment only to enable expectant parents to learn this important skill in a safe environment.
Information about maternity care at KCH is available online at KCH Birthplace. If you need help finding an obstetrician, pediatrician or another provider, visit the “Find a Doctor” link or call 833-546-4968.
Kosciusko Community Hospital has been designated a Blue Distinction® Center for Maternity Care by Anthem Inc., which recognizes quality maternity care and expertise.
A total of 469 infants born within the past year at KCH have been a welcome sight in the midst of the global pandemic, according to a news release from Lutheran Health Network.
While the virus has changed many things in the world, The Birthplace at Kosciusko Community Hospital is a pleasant constant, located in a separate area to provide specialized care and services, the release states. A dedicated team of nurses, obstetricians and other caregivers work exclusively with the moms and babies through delivery and postpartum care.
“Helping a new mother bring her child into this world is very rewarding,” said Luis Gonzalez, MD, OB/GYN at Kosciusko Community Hospital. “Our Birthplace at KCH is designed with comfort and safety in mind and our compassionate team is committed to making this an exceptional, safe experience.”
Prenatal care remains critical and women are encouraged to stay in contact with their obstetrician and keep their appointments to be sure their pregnancy is on track. And once the baby is here, regular visits to the pediatrician are important to help them thrive.
The hospital and physician clinics keep the safety of their patients as the top priority. Many actions have been taken to enhance infection prevention and support social distancing to maintain a safe environment during the pandemic.
When an expectant mom arrives at the hospital, staff will check her temperature (as part of checking her vitals), test for COVID-19 and complete a screening questionnaire. Moms can have two designated visitors (including spouse or partner), but only one at a time. There are no visiting hour restrictions. Visitors must wear masks at all times.
“KCH is taking all necessary precautions for our moms and babies,” said Corrine Stokes, CNM, midwife at Kosciusko Community Hospital. “Hundreds of moms have their babies here each year and we give each the personalized care they need.”
Labor and delivery proceed as they always have and most adjacent procedures remain available. Tubal ligation after delivery is an option if a mother is negative for COVID-19 and circumcisions can also be performed. Breastfeeding is encouraged, even for moms who test positive for COVID-19 and can protect their infant by wearing a mask.
As for prenatal classes and postpartum support, virtual classes and online support groups have temporarily replaced onsite options. CPR classes are offered by appointment only to enable expectant parents to learn this important skill in a safe environment.
Information about maternity care at KCH is available online at KCH Birthplace. If you need help finding an obstetrician, pediatrician or another provider, visit the “Find a Doctor” link or call 833-546-4968.
Kosciusko Community Hospital has been designated a Blue Distinction® Center for Maternity Care by Anthem Inc., which recognizes quality maternity care and expertise.
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