Intubation Box Added to List of PPE

Horn Memorial Hospital has added an intubation box to their acquired list of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). PPE is so important, which is why Horn Memorial has been proactive in getting an appropriate supply in stock as a major step of preparedness. Charlie Delaney, Nurse Anesthetist, commented, “the intubation box provides one more layer of protection for both the patient and the provider, in essence, it’s like putting a mask on the patient.” Horn Memorial Hospital is very thankful for the community’s support in helping accumulate the supply of PPE for our staff and patients.

Ida County Public Health Assisting With Grocery Delivery

In an effort to help Ida County’s population most at risk for severe complications of COVID-19, Ida County Public Health has teamed up with Ida Grove Food Pride and Holstein Super Market to assist with grocery delivery.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list people 65 years and older, and those with chronic health conditions such as heart or lung disease, and diabetes at higher risk for complications of COVID-19.

Public Health will deliver grocery orders to high-risk residents of Ida County who do not have family or friends to shop for them.  If you would like to place your order with Ida Grove Food Pride, you can call Horn Community Health/Public Health by 9AM on Thursday at 712-364-7311.  Minimum order is fifteen dollars.  A Food Pride employee will contact you with total due prior to delivery on Friday.  For those in the Holstein area, orders are placed directly with the Holstein Super Market by calling 712-368-4555.  If you live outside the Super Market’s delivery area they will contact public health to make the delivery. 

Grocery deliveries by public health will run April 24 through May 14.  The service will be re-evaluated the week of May 14.  Contact Ida County Public Health at 712-364-7311 with questions. 

Modifications to Immunization Clinics

On-time vaccinations during childhood is essential because it provides immunity before exposure to potentially life-threatening diseases. We have made modifications to the flow of the April 14 and 15 vaccination clinics to provide parents/guardians with peace of mind and to maintain social distancing.

We will have only one parent/guardian and the child/children needing vaccines in the office at a time. If you have a cell phone, we are asking you to call ahead when you park. We will ask screening questions and take information about the child/children needing vaccines. Paperwork will be delivered to your car. For those who do not have a cell phone, we will take your information and ask you to return to your car to wait. When it is your turn, we will call your cell phone or come to your car to get you. Immunization staff will be wearing protective gowns and face masks in addition to gloves.

COVID-19 and Your Mental Health

The COVID-19 outbreak has upset our daily routines.  Social distancing, quarantine and isolation are stressful situations and everyone will react differently.  These reactions are normal.  You may feel:

• Anxiety, worry or fear related to your own health status and those you care about;
• Frustration at the challenge of securing things you need, such as groceries and personal care items;
• Concern about effectively caring for children, parent and others in your care;
• Uncertainty or frustration about how long you will need to remain in this situation;
• Loneliness and feeling cut off from your normal routine;
• Anger if you think you were exposed to the disease;
• Boredom and frustration if you are unable to engage in regular day-to-day activities;
• Unease about your financial situation and the future of the economy;
• Ambivalence or uncertainty about the situation; or
• Disappointment for cancelled events with family and friends, closed restaurants and gathering places.

Arm yourself with facts, not fear.  Being knowledgeable about the topic may relieve anxiety and make it easier to cope.  Use trusted resources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/ or Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) https://idph.iowa.gov/.

Information is constant in today’s society.  It is important to know the facts, not rumors, but when information creates a barrier to your daily functioning in can actually increase fear and anxiety.  Unplug.  Watch a favorite movie, read a book, go for a walk, bike ride or work on a project.  Connect with others through a telephone call, email, text or social media.  Stick to a routine.  Even if you are not going to work, get dressed and make meals at regular times.

When should you seek help?  If your anxiety is affecting your ability to function in some part of your life, it is time to reach out.  Talk to your healthcare provider and discuss your concerns.  Many providers are covering telehealth services at this time.  You can also use the website www.YourLifeIowa.org for information on gambling, addiction, substance use, suicide prevention, and mental health.  You can also connect by live chat, text (855-895-8398) or phone (855-581-8111).        

COVID-19 Update