A patient in Prince Albert’s Victoria Hospital tested postive for COVID-19
The Saskatchewan Health Authority said while there remains only one case at the facility and currently no evidence of transmission within the facility, an outbreak has been declared by Dr. Khami Chokani, a medical health officer, because of the duration of stay in the hospital of the COVID-19 positive patient without knowledge of the patient’s condition.
Staff who had been in close contact with the patient are self-isolating. Contact tracing and investigation is underway to ensure all contacts are identified.
The authority said the patient was initially admitted to the Victoria Hospital on April 21, for a non-COVID-19 related medical need.
All patients undergo a thorough verbal risk assessment screen upon admission, said the authority. The patient screened negative. On April 29, health professionals determined that an additional test was required and the positive result was reported the same day.
Infection Prevention Control is immediately notified of all positive tests in SHA facilities and engaged to ensure all appropriate protocols are in place.
Service changes are being made by the authority to adapt to the decreased staffing levels given the number of staff now required to isolate. As a result one patient has been transferred from ICU to Saskatoon. Further service changes required will be communicated by the authority once known. At this time the Emergency Department remains open. Patients who require emergency care should continue to seek service as usual.
