KDH staff recognized for their hard work during the busy winter period

Canadian winters – with snow, sleet and freezing rain causing hazardous driving conditions outside and keeping people inside where germs abound – present additional challenges for hospitals across the country. With each winter season comes an increase in influenza cases, motor vehicle accidents, hospital bed shortages, and more.

In recognition of the extra effort required to keep the hospital running smoothly under these seasonal pressures, senior leadership at Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) have issued statements praising staff for their hard work and dedication during the busy winter period.

Frank Vassallo, KDH’s CEO, acknowledged that, “Winter brings extra pressures for our staff in all areas of the hospital, from our nurses, doctors, and other members of our care teams, to housekeeping and maintenance staff, who must work extra hard to keep the hospital clean and safe.”

RNs Catherine Miller (left) and Michelle Morgan flank Dr. Johnny Brisebois in the KDH ER.

“I want to personally thank the entire KDH team for the grace, dedication and professionalism they are exhibiting under these pressures,” he added. “Despite the seasonal challenges, they continue to provide the highest quality, patient-centred care to the people of North Grenville and beyond.”

KDH staff prepared for the oncoming winter weather last fall by developing a ‘surge’ plan to deal with the potential increase in patients needing to be admitted to hospital. In addition, KDH staff have been extra diligent in following infection control procedures to prevent the spread of illness.

Although the Public Health Agency of Canada has stated that there is some indication that influenza activity in Canada is starting to slow down, KDH remains vigilant and prepared to handle any surges, should they occur. Senior staff at KDH continue to monitor the flu situation locally and across the province.

Family and friends are encouraged not to visit if they are experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms, and all staff and visitors are reminded that thorough hand-washing is the best way to prevent colds and flu from spreading.

“We also recommend that everyone get their flu shot,” said Cathy Burke, KDH’s Vice President of Nursing and Clinical Services. “Not just to protect yourself, but also those around you, particularly the very young and the very old, who could end up in hospital if they came down with the flu.”

Burke also expressed her gratitude to both clinical and non-clinical staff for “going above and beyond during the winter months to provide safe, compassionate care to each and every one of our patients, and to make our hospital as safe as it can be.”

About Kemptville District Hospital

Kemptville District Hospital is Accredited with Exemplary Standing, the highest ranking bestowed by Accreditation Canada. Committed to building healthier communities, we are a model of hospital-led integrated health services within the provincial health system. Kemptville District Hospital consistently ranks among the top hospitals in Ontario for both patient and employee satisfaction. We pride ourselves on being a good partner within the system. Kemptville District Hospital provides acute care hospital services, advanced orthopedic care, and primary care management services.

For further information contact:

Jenny Read, Communications Officer

T: 613-258-6133 extension 223

Email: jread@kdh.on.ca