Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi has taken its response to the coronavirus pandemic to a new level, thanks to the hard work of its personnel. 

Prior to the onset of the pandemic, the team at BMHNM was prepared to handle communal viruses, but never had they seen such a widespread and highly contagious enemy. Doctors, nurses and support staff found themselves on the front lines, which meant new procedures had to be implemented, and quickly.  

“During this crisis, new protocols have been put into place to include increased safety measures, reinforced training of staff on how to properly put on and remove personal protective equipment, and monitoring the CDC recommendations to ensure we have the latest, most updated information,” a statement from Baptist said. “Of course, many changes have occurred that are quite different than health care pre COVID-19, but our staff is adapting and know that the changes we are making are in the best interest of our community and our fellow colleagues.” 

As restrictions have been put into place regarding visitors and support persons for patients at the hospital, the level of comfort and care patients need has only increased. Regardless of the reason for admission, being alone at the hospital can be scary for some.  

However, CEO of Baptist Hospital-North Mississippi Bill Henning said all staff members are doing their part to provide exceptional care for patients. 

“It would be unfair to recognize only a few as heroes because, in our eyes, everyone that works at Baptist is a hero. It takes our entire team to care for patients,” Henning said. “Everyone in this building plays a major role in operating a safe and fully functional hospital. Our team members that clean the hospital from top to bottom are as important as the next. Our team members that make sure everything is operating – from the heating and air to medical equipment – are as essential as those who directly care for our patients. Just as our physicians and nurses, our security, admissions, food and nutrition, and all the other departments play a vital role in keeping this hospital going and we are very grateful for each and every one.” 

The fight against COVID-19 is far from over. For more information on Baptist’s response to the pandemic, visit baptistonline.org/coronavirus or check out the hospital’s social media pages.