Open Letter to our Community,

The most recent explosion at the Kaiser facility in Gramercy, alerted everyone's attention to the dangers of living in the heart of an industrial community. The incident was a witness to the importance of having a community hospital in times of disasters.

The staff members of the hospital are always prepared for any type of emergencies including disasters. Our nurses are trained in Advanced Cardiac life Support and Trauma Nurse Care Course. St. James Parish Hospital has developed and implemented a disaster plan. Through the years the plan has been tested and improved. Practice make Perfect, and that is what we do at St. James Parish Hospital. We have involved local industry in our disaster drills so that in the event of a real disaster the staff is prepared.

On the morning of the Kaiser explosion Dr. Joe Turner initiated the disaster plan. Local physicians and hospital staff members responded immediately. When the fist victims of the explosion were brought to our emergency rooms, adequate staff were ready to intervene. While the victims were treated and stabilized, arrangements were being make with trauma centers and burn units so that the patients specialized needs would be addressed in a timely manner. The hospital's heliport was utilized by Air Med to transfer the victims to the most appropriate facility for their individual medical trauma needs.

Because of the commitment of hospital staff and dedicated local physicians, the community can feel confident that we are here to meet al of their health care needs, from broken bones to medical disasters. St. James Parish Hospital is the First Choice for all your health care needs. Warmest Regards,

St. James Parish Hospital's Employees
St. James Parish Hospital's Medical Staff