What can we do to help? MSC Southeast helps out local hospitals with equipment and supplies
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, on-campus instruction at MSC Southeast has been suspended for the remainder of Spring semester. Nursing and health care coursework has been adapted to online and distance learning opportunities.
That means the nursing simulation labs at the college, which closely represent real hospital settings, aren’t in use right now. The equipment in these labs doesn’t just look real – it is real – and it could be used to help real patients at area hospitals.
Last week, Minnesota State College Southeast’s Winona campus nursing department loaned 10 hospital beds and 8 nightstands to Winona Health. The college also donated supplies of medical-grade personal protective equipment, including 29 pairs of goggles and 3000 gloves.
In addition, 68 masks were donated to Winona County, and an agreement is in place that the Tandeski Center can be used as a medical facility if needed.
This week, Mayo Clinic Health System in Red Wing picked up equipment from the Red Wing campus, including 10 hospital beds, 6 nightstands, 8 swing bed trays, and 6 IV poles.
Dean of Health Jennifer Eccles noted that the entire college worked to create an inventory of supplies. “It wasn’t just the nursing program. Staff and faculty throughout the college searched cupboards and closets for personal protective equipment. We found medical equipment, goggles, masks, and gloves in classrooms and labs including auto body, biomedical, chemistry, cosmetology, medical lab tech, radiography, welding, guitar repair and building — even the bookstores. We are ready to donate or loan as needed.”
MSC Southeast is grateful to have the opportunity to help out in this crisis situation.