McKenzie adds Aerosol Shields to List of Equipment

McKenzie Health System (MHS) recently received a donation of two new aerosol shields from Valine and Jake Kobasic, owners of Kobasic Creations in Escanaba, Michigan. In addition, two aerosol shields were purchased from Walbro in Cass City by Mark Hamed, MD, MBA, MPH, MHS, Emergency Department Medical Director, and donated to McKenzie.

Aerosol shields, which cover a patient’s head and neck, significantly reduce the exposure that nurse anesthetists and emergency providers face while intubating a patient with COVID-19. The light yet durable shield is scratch-resistant and it can be easily sanitized with bleach, alcohol, disinfectant, and soap. Walbro has also created a new, affordable mini-ventilation machine to support patients who need help breathing, replacing a human squeezing a manual bag, which includes adjustable controls for delivering assistance.

“We are very grateful to have this equipment and for the innovation of businesses like Walbro and Kobasic Creations, who quickly pivoted to respond to this crisis and to support frontline healthcare workers,” said Dr. Hamed. “We remain incredibly proud of our team of professionals and the dedication and care they provide to our community every day. We also appreciate the donations we have received from community members and businesses alike.”

McKenzie has been the recipient of many generous donations of personal protective equipment (PPE), meals and treats, gift cards, and more to support the organization and its team members.

For ongoing updates and more information regarding the latest at McKenzie Health System, please visit www.McKenzieHealth.org/COVID-19.