Here is the statement from Covenant Health that was released following their conclusion of an investigation into St. Therese Villa in Lethbridge.
Covenant Health Confident in Care at St. Therese Villa
Covenant Health is co-operating fully with Alberta Health and Alberta Health Services in reviews following allegations that a resident was bitten by a mouse at St. Therese Villa.
Through its follow up investigation, Covenant Health has gathered more information, conferring with care staff and reviewing the documentation extensively.
As a result, the organization is confident that the resident was not bitten by a mouse. While a mouse was sighted in the room, there is no evidence, documentation or verbal confirmation that a mouse was ever sighted near the resident.
The resident has been assessed medically and the physician opinion is that there is no evidence of wounds caused by an animal bite. There is an indication that the symptoms are consistent with a viral condition. The medical review confirmed that appropriate care and treatment were provided.
“We can understand how the public would be alarmed at a story like the one that was circulated yesterday,” says President and CEO Patrick Dumelie, “We are also concerned for the distress these allegations have caused our families and residents and our staff who provide incredible care.”
In collaboration with Alberta Health Services, Covenant Health immediately dealt with any environmental concerns—cleaning areas thoroughly according to standards and protocol and are monitoring on an ongoing basis.
Pest control has been augmented at St. Therese Villa and the site will continue to use every precaution to prevent mice entering our facilities. Covenant Health will continue to review the situation for quality improvements and implement any further necessary changes.
Covenant Health welcomes anyone who has concerns—whether resident, staff, family, visitor--to bring them forward to administration or nursing staff.
“Providing excellence in care and service is at the heart of our mission. Our priority is the safety and health of residents,” says Patrick. “We welcome any opportunity to review our care and processes so that everyone has full confidence in our commitment to our residents and the quality of our care. It is very unfortunate when these kinds of allegations are circulated in the public without proper evidence or facts.”
