LEXINGTON, NC-(July 16, 2012)- All four operating rooms and a minor procedure room at Wake Forest Baptist Health-Lexington Medical Center were in full use Monday after crews worked around-the-clock to repair water damage resulting from a storm Tuesday, July 10.
The damage from the storm was the result of heavy rain that caused drains on the roof to overflow and water to come into the hospital. Drywall, ceiling tiles and insulation around duct work were damaged in three operating rooms and a minor procedure room. The damage resulted in the cancellation of approximately 25 elective surgical cases at Lexington Medical Center and the diversion of emergency surgical procedures to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem.
One operating room which was not damaged during the storm was held for emergency C-sections.
A company that specializes in restoration from water damage and hospital employees worked nonstop to repair damage, resulting in the opening of two operating rooms and a minor procedure room Saturday. "The availability of two operating rooms enabled us to perform several emergency surgeries over the weekend," said Johnny Veal, vice president of patient care services. "We are anticipating a full OR schedule with all four rooms open today."
Veal said that the operating suites were thoroughly inspected and all equipment tested following the repairs to ensure a completely safe environment for surgical procedures. "Our first priority is the safety of our patients," he said. Veal added that those patients whose surgeries were postponed were most understanding about the situation. "We are sorry for the inconvenience to them and also to our surgeons," he said.
He commended the Lexington Medical Center staff-especially plant operations and environmental services--who rallied to make the repair process expedient. "Our staff has been remarkable, working tirelessly and literally around-the-clock to get the repairs made in three and a half days," he said. Veal also thanked the staff at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem. "They supported us in every possible way," he said.
The surgical staff has agreed to work longer hours to accommodate surgical cases, and physicians are working closely together to schedule cases.
Media Relations Contact:
Kathy Sushereba:
ksushere@wakehealth.edu, 336-238-4552