Inland Valley Medical Center Recognized as Level II Trauma Center

September 10, 2019
Inland Valley Medical Center Recognized as Level II Trauma Center

The Southwest Healthcare System Level II Trauma Center Team.

Recently verified by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) as a Level II trauma center, Inland Valley Medical Center has the capacity to treat the critically injured 24 hours a day.

Brad Neet, CEO of Southwest Healthcare System, says the verification was the result of a remarkable team of nurses, physicians and staff who remain focused on delivering quality care in Southwest Riverside County. “We are the only trauma center within a 30-mile radius, and this represents the commitment to our communities and the ability to provide critical treatment right here instead of transporting patients out of the area.”

Lana Bordenkecher, BSN, RN, CCRN, Trauma Program Manager, explains that not every hospital meets the strict ACS criteria. “You have to participate in a rigorous survey process that happens every three years,” she says. “We consistently monitor our data and care to ensure we are maintaining the highest standards. It’s part of our commitment to our patients and local communities that we are always here to provide high quality trauma services when they need it the most.”

Since the hospital is also a designated paramedic base station, ER doctors and nurses can begin providing care by using a special radio link to paramedics and other emergency aid personnel while the patient is en route to the hospital. The trauma team is notified and waiting by the time the patient arrives. The team comprises trauma surgeons, emergency medicine specialists trained in advance cardiac life support (ACLS); and trauma nurses with training in ACLS, along with certification in trauma nursing care, Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Mobile Intensive Care Nurse certification.

Preventing Trauma

According to the American College of Surgeons, one in 12 deaths is a result of trauma, and up to age 34, trauma kills more people than all diseases combined. Motor vehicle accidents cause a vast majority of trauma treated at Inland Valley, while falls are the second leading cause of injury.

You can reduce or prevent trauma by taking simple precautions:

  • Wear your seat belt at all times when riding in a vehicle
  • Wear an approved safety helmet and other protective equipment whenever biking, riding or skating
  • While playing sports, wear appropriate protective gear
  • Wear proper eye protection when necessary
  • Never drink alcohol while operating equipment or engaging in physical activity
  • Never leave children unsupervised for even a moment around a pool, spa, bathtub, toilet, bucket of water or standing water