Sault Area Hospital Foundation (SAHF) has gratefully accepted a donation from long-time supporter Atlas Auto Parts. The funds will be used to cover the cost of a new bladder scanner needed in the Urology department.
Barry Bailey, Vice President of Atlas Auto Parts, saw the bladder scanner featured as an “upcoming need” in an SAHF donor newsletter and wanted to help. Bladder scanners are used every day, across Sault Area Hospital. A type of portable ultrasound, they can measure how full the bladder is, and whether it can completely empty. This is a “non-invasive” procedure: it happens on the outside of the body, which is easier and more comfortable for patients.
“Bladder scanners are so important to have, in all areas of the hospital,” said Sara Mizzi, Patient Care Manager of Ambulatory Care at the Sault Area Hospital. “They allow us to assess the volume of urine that is retained within the bladder. Using a bladder scanner can reduce unnecessary catheterization. Avoiding catheters can reduce the risk of infections (UTI’s), falls and may also decrease the length of stay for patients in Hospital.”
As a past Board member for SAHF, Bailey knew the only way new equipment (like this bladder scanner) arrives at Sault Area Hospital is through community donations. “We could clearly see the impact this equipment would have at Sault Area Hospital on care,” said Bailey. “We wanted to be sure the team at our local hospital had the tools they need to continue to provide outstanding care to our whole community.”
“We are so grateful for this continued support from Atlas Auto Parts,” said Teresa Martone, Executive Director, Sault Area Hospital Foundation. “While we are always striving to share our Hospital’s needs, it is rare to get a response like this: with a donor outright funding the needed equipment. We are lucky to have such a community-minded organization step up to support the care of so many at SAH.”
On behalf of the Sault Area Hospital Foundation’s Board of Directors, Staff and the patients this gift will impact – thank you to the entire team at Atlas Auto Parts; this new bladder scanner will be used multiple times a day, every day, helping provide the best possible care at Sault Area Hospital.