What to Know About Surgery During the Pandemic
3/17/2021
The thought of having surgery for a nagging injury or lingering pain can make some patients feel uneasy. But, as many experts have said over the last few months, it is extremely important not to neglect medical needs during the pandemic.
Patients can feel confident seeking the medical care they need at Carlsbad Medical Center. Numerous steps have been put in place to keep patients safe during their visits, including:
- Screening all visitors for COVID-19 exposure and symptoms before they are allowed to enter.
- Visitor restrictions reduce the number of people inside to enable social distancing and keep patients and employees safe.
- Facemasks are worn by everyone inside the hospital – patients, employees and physicians.
- Caregivers are using appropriate personal protective equipment and washing hands before and after caring for every patient.
- Cleaning protocols have been enhanced with extra measures and increased frequency, including disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and all patient care areas.
- Furniture in waiting areas arranged to support social distancing.
“What might start out as a minor injury or illness can actually lead to long-term health issues if not addressed,” said Murugan Athigaman, M.D., general surgeon at CMC. “I have seen an increase in the number of patients who are experiencing more significant health issues because of delayed care. Carlsbad Medical Center has precautions in place to safely treat all patients who need medical care. I strongly urge people to contact their physician if they have any health concerns.”
Pre-surgery COVID-19 testing is required for patients undergoing procedures involving general anesthesia or aerosolizing procedures. Patients are asked to self-quarantine after receiving the test and before arriving at the hospital. Care for surgery patients is delivered in a non-COVID care zone in which all patients have tested negative for COVID and provided by a dedicated group of staff who only work in this area.
“Working with Dr. Athigaman, my focus and area of expertise is to get patients in the clinic for early screenings, interventions, and surgical procedures,” said Katherine Kleinsteuber, DNP. “Those patients who go ahead and seek treatment early do recover more quickly and have less pain. Remember, the sooner you are seen, the sooner your relief and recovery can begin.”
To request an appointment with a surgeon, other specialist or a primary care provider, visit www.PecosValleyDocs.com. For more information about the hospital’s safety plan, click here.
Photo captions:
(top) Murugan Athigaman, M.D.
(bottom) Katherine Kleinsteuber, DNP
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