The first COVID-19 patient was admitted into Sanford Bemidji Sundday.
According to a statement from Joy Johnson, vice president of operations for Sanford Health of Northern Minnesota, limited details will be shared with the community due to patient privacy laws.
“Following the progression of this pandemic in other communities, we knew this was not a matter of if, but when, and have been preparing our staff and facilities since March to care for positive inpatients,” Johnson.
“We can share that the patient knew he/she was positive and was able to share that prior to arrival at the hospital.”
Johnson said the patient is in isolation in a negative air pressure room, which does not allow the air in the patient’s room to circulate in the hospital.
“As well, the nurses, providers and staff providing care for this patient have been instructed in and given the appropriate PPE to safely provide care. While respecting the privacy of the patient and their family, we will continue to share what we can with the community.”
