Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs News Release - April 21, 2020
SPOKANE – The Spokane Veterans Home is saddened to share that one of our honored Veterans passed away today. This Veteran had tested positive for COVID-19 and was hospitalized over the weekend. Each Veteran we care for in our Veterans Homes served our nation honorably, and we take very seriously the business of caring for them when they need us the most. Our hearts go out to the Veteran’s family and friends in their time of loss.
“We mourn the passing of our Veteran and share our condolences with their family and friends,” said Lourdes E. “Alfie” Alvarado-Ramos, director of the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. “Having the honor of taking care of our Veterans and their families is something we do not take lightly and every loss, whether COVID-19 related or not, is very hard for us all.”
A total of 25 residents have tested positive since testing began and all residents and staff members have been tested throughout the facility. 20 COVID-19 positive residents are currently being cared for in the facility, three additional veterans are hospitalized. One Veteran, who was on end of life care and tested positive, passed away on April 8. We continue to closely monitor all residents including 4-hour symptom and temperature checks and residents are re-tested if they exhibit symptoms of COVID19.
All staff continue to adhere to screenings for COVID-19 before entering the building during all shifts. These screenings include a series of questions and a temperature check.
The Spokane Veterans Home continues to work closely with the Spokane VA Medical Center, the MultiCare Team provided by the Department of Health and the Spokane Regional Health Department to ensure that all CDC and CMS guidelines are being followed regarding the use of PPE and infection control practices.
“As we continue down this challenging road, I again want to thank each staff member at the Spokane Veterans Home,” said Patrick McNabb, administrator of the Spokane Veterans Home. “The resiliency of our team and the spirit with which they perform their duties is to be commended. I also want to thank our families and loved ones for their understanding and support and our community members who have stepped up to show their support as we work through these challenges together.”
WDVA will continue to provide updated information online at: www.dva.wa.gov/covid or through dedicated telephone line with a message that will be recorded at noon each day, 509-344-5073. Media inquiries should be addressed to heidia@dva.wa.gov.
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Media Contact Heidi Audette Communications and Legislative Director (360) 725-2154 – office (360) 791-8966 – cell heidia@dva.wa.gov