Silver Cross Hospital Implements Universal Masking for All Staff

As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to grow rapidly within the region, Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox has implemented universal masking, which requires all employees and medical staff members to wear a cloth or procedural mask at all times at all Silver Cross locations.

“Our top priority is protecting our patients, staff and medical staff members so we can best serve our communities throughout this pandemic,” explains Chris Udovich, M.D., Chief Medical Officer. “We are taking this step now because of evidence that social distancing, while a key strategy for interrupting the spread of coronavirus, is difficult to maintain in the busy patient care environment.”

The new protocol includes the use of cloth or procedural masks. Thanks to community donations, Silver Cross is building its supply of cloth masks to help conserve procedural masks.

“Universal masking is just one way to help contain the spread of COVID-19,” Dr. Udovich added. “Please remember to practice excellent hand hygiene, maintain six feet of physical distance from others, cover your cough or sneeze, and stay home when you are sick.”

As of April 2, the hospital has 43 inpatients who have tested positive for COVID-19, with another 29 patients classified as persons under investigation (PUIs). That brings the total inpatient population of confirmed and suspected COVID-19 cases at Silver Cross to 72. All 72 remain hospitalized in isolation.

If you or someone you know is interested in sewing handmade masks for the hospital, the following website features a pattern and instructional video: https://www.craftpassion.com/face-mask-sewing-pattern/

Handmade masks can be delivered to Silver Cross Hospital’s main entrance between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays and 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. weekends.

For more information, visit silvercross.org