McCook, Neb. — Through funding made possible by the Community Hospital Health Foundation’s ongoing fundraising efforts, CHHF recently partnered with Community Hospital to invest in critical medical equipment that strengthens patient care across inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings.

As part of a shared investment with Community Hospital, the Health Foundation contributed $15,000 toward the purchase of six CADD Solis PCA pumps and three epidural PCA pumps. These specialized pumps are used for patient controlled analgesia (pain relief), epidural infusions for surgical and obstetric patients, and insulin infusions that require extremely precise medication delivery throughout the hospital, including inpatient and emergency care as needed.

Unlike standard IV pumps, PCA and epidural pumps allow medications to be delivered at very low, highly controlled rates and, in some cases, give patients the ability to safely manage their own pain relief within prescribed limits. This technology supports comfort, safety, and consistency of care for patients recovering from surgery, managing acute pain, or requiring carefully regulated insulin therapy.

“By partnering with the hospital on equipment purchases, we’re able to use donor dollars strategically while ensuring caregivers have the tools they need to care for patients close to home,” said Jessica Bortner, Executive Director of Community Hospital Health Foundation.

Donor support also helped fund equipment that improves care in urgent, time sensitive situations in the Emergency Department. The Health Foundation approved $3,500 for the purchase of a Ring Rescue Kit, which is now in use. The kit represents the standard of care for safely removing rings when swelling, injury, or trauma makes removal medically necessary.

Ring entrapment can quickly become a serious medical issue if circulation is compromised. The Ring Rescue Kit provides Emergency Department staff with specialized tools to remove rings safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of injury and potential complications.

“When a patient arrives with swelling or injury, timely ring removal can help prevent serious complications,” said Julie Wilhelmson, Emergency and Outpatient Services Director. “This equipment allows our team to respond quickly and safely, and we’re grateful it’s available for our patients.”

These purchases were made possible through funds raised across multiple Health Foundation initiatives and reflect the thoughtful stewardship of donor support throughout the year. Together, these investments support patient care across multiple departments and touch patients during some of the most critical moments of care.