(Blair, NE) – Memorial Community Hospital & Health System in Blair recently received a Basic Level Trauma Center designation from the Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS).

This designation requires certification, and all nurses and providers must obtain additional education and training leading to a higher quality of care.

A site visit was held in October 2018 at which time a trauma center medical provider and nurse reviewed patient charts, facility, processes and resources in the Emergency Department at MCH&HS. With this designation, all ER providers are required to have ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support) and all ED nurses are required to have continuing education hours that are trauma related. Nurses also must have TNCC (Trauma Nurse Core Course).

The Basic Level Trauma Center designation is valid for four years. During the four year period, the DHHS will monitor MCH&HS’s compliance by requiring the facility to report data to the Trauma Registry and participate in regional trauma care performance improvement meetings.

Many MCH&HS staff members were recognized as playing an integral role in receiving this designation which was led by Trauma Medical Director Dr. Maurice Birdwell, and Trauma Nurse Coordinator Keala Roy. The local EMS volunteers and MCH Board of Directors were also commended for their efforts.