Transformation of NHAK into Covid-19 hospital begins

Our Correspondent

Kohima, March 30 (EMN): After identifying the Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) as a novel coronavirus (Covid-19) hospital, extensive preparations are underway.

The department of Health and Family Welfare, in an order issued on March 28, had directed NHAK to shift ‘existing in-patients’ requiring further hospitalisation to various private hospitals.

When visited, wards including delivery and general wards were almost empty. NHAK staff were in the process of sanitising and cleaning beds, lockers, mattress, etc. A senior nurse said that it might take at least a week to get the hospital ready.

The NHAK was identified as plan-B, or second option, Covid-19 hospital. According to Managing Director NHAK Dr. Thorhusie Katiry, some of the patients (general ward) had moved out voluntarily while some were given instruction and prescription to follow at home. He added that about five out of 11 Intensive Care Unit patients were discharged on Monday morning.

As for the bills, he said that there were some technical problems but will be left to the government to decide. In the March 28 order, it was stated that “medical expenditure for in-patients who are shifted or new emergency patients who are referred will be worked out with the respective hospitals”.

He pointed out the shortage of personal protective equipment. Though NHAK has received consignments, it still need more because it is one-time use only. In addition, there are only two functional ventilators in the hospital. He said the government has assured them to provide ventilators soon. 

Presently, there are 300 beds at NHAK, with 160 functional beds. Fifty beds will be kept ready for Covid-19 positive patients. However, it can be upgraded as and when required, Dr Katiry informed. The hospital has a total of 311 health workers including 36 doctors, 97 nurses, 71 grade III and 107 grade IV staff members, he added.