Brockton still in the red zone: How one hospital is preparing for possible 2nd surge of COVID-19 cases

BROCKTON, Mass. — Hospitals across the state are preparing for a possible second surge with the number of positive coronavirus cases on the rise, hospitals in areas considered in the red zone are constantly monitoring new data.

During the height of the pandemic, day after day we’ve reported from Brockton Hospital. It’s considered the red zone, where they have some of the highest infection rates in the state. Fast forward, about 7 months, hospital officials tell us they are more prepared than ever.

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Inside Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital, special rooms and areas of the hospital are now designated for COVID-19 patients in case of surge 2. Hospital officials say, the virus appears to have weakened during the warmer months.

“We may see an uptick in cases. The virus might be stronger in the colder month,” said Stacey Ryan, director for infection prevention.

With the recent uptick in positive cases, Stacey Ryan, the director for infection prevention, said she along with hospital officials are constantly monitoring the CDC guidelines and what needs to be done. Planning ahead of time is key.

“Not only for general patient care. Supply, management, bed management,” said Barbara Curley, vice president and quality officer.

Just months ago, at the height of the pandemic, hospital workers across the state and country were going with the flow.

“Tiring, people stressed out. Had to change the way we delivered care. Change the way we have units set up,” said Ryan.

Brockton remains in the red zone for some time now, where there were at least 5,000 cases, and 300 deaths.

“People living in multifamily homes, apartments. It’s a city, and you don’t have many people spread out,” said Ryan.

Inside of the hospital now, the lobby area has been cleared out, and is strictly being used as a screen area with social distancing in place. other units in the hospital are now cleared out, and ready to roll in hospital beds for surge 2.

“In an event that we think we are getting to capacity, we can open up an additional area that’s ready to go. And staff that will man that area,” said Ryan.

The bottom line here, health care professionals are asking the public to do their part as the winter months are approaching. Wear a mask, wash your hands, and avoid large gatherings.

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