10-bed Ebola isolation ward getting ready in CMCH

Coimbatore: A dedicated 10-bed isolation ward is being established at Coimbatore Government Medical College Hospital (CMCH) as a precautionary measure against the global threat of the Ebola virus, minister for backwards classes welfare V Sampathkumar said on Thursday. “The ward will be made operational within the next three days,” the minister said.The minister was speaking to reporters after conducting a surprise inspection at the CMCH. He inspected the hospital’s infrastructure, patient amenities and administrative operations.The minister, who inspected the current condition of the hospital’s older buildings, said a blueprint for demolition and reconstruction of new structures was being prepared.The minister said the govt would address the issue of the lack of adequate accommodation facilities for nurses.He said maintenance of the hospital restrooms was unsatisfactory. He issued orders to prioritise hygiene and sanitation. He announced that a comprehensive inquiry would be conducted regarding complaints alleging a staff shortage with the private agency responsible for carrying out cleaning operations.Addressing complaints that doctors were recommending patients purchase medicines from pharmacies located outside the hospital premises, the minister asserted that the hospital’s internal drug inventory is being properly maintained. He warned that strict disciplinary action would be taken against any staff member found involved in bribery or corrupt practices.EOM