Volunteer operations halted at Carson Tahoe Health due to coronavirus threat
Consistent with other precautionary measures in place to limit those coming to and from the hospital and other clinics, Carson Tahoe Health has suspended its volunteer operation for the time being due to the coronavirus threat.
In an abundance of caution, Carson Tahoe Health, like many other healthcare organizations, have implemented several precautionary measures, said hospital spokeswoman Erin Meyering. One of the measures was to temporarily halt volunteer services.
"This 'social distancing'is an example of a best practice measure, just like proper handwashing or encouraging people to cough, sneeze into their sleeves," she said. "These efforts were put in place to reduce the risk of contracting/spreading seasonal illnesses. As always, we are keeping the safety of our patient, staff, volunteers, and community front of mind."
Throughout all of its locations, Carson Tahoe is supported on average by about 25 volunteers a day covering multiple departments and shifts, said Meyering.
"We have made various adjustments, specific to department, to ensure all operations continue as usual, even without our stellar volunteers," she said.
For example, the volunteer desk at the main entrance to the Regional Medical Center, is now staffed by clinical experts and is being used as a screening area.