Watch the video above: a burst water pipe affected some services at RUH on Monday
SASKATOON – Some services at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon were affected after a water pipe burst early Monday.
Several areas of the hospital were affected by flooding including the pediatric outpatient area, one operating room, the OR recovery room, CCU and some public spaces.
The burst pipe leaked an inch-and-a-half of water in the room where it was located. It then leaked down from the main level into a number of rooms below including the pediatric unit, the public lobby area and the Medicine Shoppe.
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The pediatric outpatient area suffered the worst damage. Drywall has been removed and walls are being tested for moisture. Officials say it could be up to a week before the area is re-opened to the public.
Adjustments were made to the surgery schedule due to the flooding and just two procedures had to be postponed.
Outpatient services for pediatrics has been moved to another area of the hospital but patients can register as usual at the pediatric outpatient registration desk.
Some patients in the coronary care unit were moved to other areas of the hospital.
Officials have been assessing the damage, which is estimated at around $10,000, and are implementing resolutions and cleanup procedures. Any equipment that may have been damaged by flooding are also being checked. Potential infection risks are also being assessed in the flooded areas.
Saskatoon Health Region has called in additional resources to help with patient navigation and messaging.
Officials with the region are asking patients and the public not to call the hospital or doctors regarding any procedures scheduled for Monday. Anyone whose procedure has been affected will be contacted by the hospital or their surgeon’s office.
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