ICUs have reached capacity at 2 Butler Health System hospitals

BUTLER, Pa. — Intensive care units at two Butler Health System hospitals have reached capacity as the number of COVID-19 cases grows.

BHS said it has activated phase 1 of its COVID-19 Surge Plan, and Butler Memorial Hospital and Clarion Hospital are at capacity for ICU beds.

In a news release Wednesday, the hospital system announced BMH Post Anesthesia Care Unit is being converted to critical care use with the addition of 15 ICU beds.

“To make all types of beds as available as possible, BHS is suspending non-emergent, elective surgeries and procedures that require an inpatient stay. Outpatient procedures not requiring admission will continue to be performed,” the release said.

In addition, some nurses are being temporarily reassigned to the areas of greatest need.

BHS is urging the community to do its part to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and help keep healthcare workers healthy and able to provide care. People are reminded to wear a mask, wash hands, avoid gatherings and stay home if sick.

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