Mercy Health, a health system with hospitals in Grand Rapids and Muskegon, will now be accepting hospital supplies from area businesses and the community amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Accepted supplies will include:
- Masks & face shields
- N-95 and CAPR masks
- ISO (Isolation) gowns
- Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) supplies
- Disinfectant wipes (Lysol or Clorox)
- Hand sanitizer
Commercially prepared and packaged food items will be accepted, as well.
Mercy Health says health guidelines do not allow for the use of hand-crafted Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gowns, surgical masks and shields as they do not offer the same protection for nurses and other health care workers.
Justin Grill, Chief Medical Officer at Mercy Health Muskegon, said "We continue to appreciate everyone’s support of our Mercy Health staff. Our team of physicians, nurses and support employees continue to be on the front line of trying to serve many in our community."
The Michigan Nurses Association has filed a complaint with the Michigan Occupational Safety & Health Administration after a hospital allegedly told nurses they could not use their own protective masks, but will not provide masks with the same amount of protection to nurses.
The complaint claims that the hospital violates the general duty clause of OHSA which ensures workers the right to be free from threats of serious harm or death in the workplace.
"The safety of our staff and patients is our top priority. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is being used by those who specifically require it. Mercy Health continues to follow PPE use for staff according to CDC and OSHA guidelines to ensure the health and safety of our staff and patients" Grill also said.
If you are interested in making a donation, contact one of the following people to coordinate:
Grand Rapids donations:
Angela Paasche
angela.paasche@mercyhealth.com
616-695-1426
Muskegon donations:
Claudine Weber
weberch@mercyhealth.com
231-672-3896
STATE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR COVID-19
Patients with confirmed infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:
- If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.
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