Arthurdale, WV Due to the coronavirus pandemic, WV Caring, a 501 c3, began taking preventive and precautionary measures to protect our patients, families, staff and volunteers against the Coronavirus. Hospice patients are particularly more vulnerable due to their compromised immune systems and infections like the flu, pneumonia and other novel viruses. Recently, WV Caring’s clinical staff increased preventive education to its patients, families and caregivers on infection control and staying healthy during this time.
With the COVID-19 creating massive shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies, WV Caring’s staff sought new ways to be responsible and protect their patients, community, volunteers and staff. So, WV Caring mobilized its staff and volunteers to meet its healthcare needs.
Being resourceful staff decided to make handmade masks on Thursday. Within a few hours, staff and volunteers were deployed to begin production of masks made in its non-profit colors. Mask kits were made for the volunteers to make at home. 150 kits have already been sent out to volunteers. The masks are being sewn for patients, families, volunteers and staff. throughout the service area, and as far away as Maryland. By Sunday, the first batch of 300 masks will be ready for delivery by staff to its patients and families throughout the twelve counties they serve.
Taking care of our patients and families in their homes or wherever they live is what we do everyday of the year 24 X 7. Illnesses do not take time out for holidays or vacations and can’t be planned or scheduled. WV Caring is used to all kinds of weather and other situations, so this pandemic is another situation to work through and do whatever is necessary to take care and protect our patients and families. It’s all part of what we do every day.
If you would like to assist in any way, please call WV Caring at 1-866-656-9790.