SLV Health Foundation Funds Bladder Scanner to Enhance Women’s Care
SLV Health
The SLV Health Foundation has funded a new bladder scanner for the OB department in San Luis Valley Health’s Labor and Delivery Women’s Center, further enhancing patient care and efficiency. This essential piece of equipment, valued at approximately $10,000, was provided in December 2024 and is already improving services for women’s health. The funding for this scanner was made possible through a generous donation from the Premier Music Academy, led by Ms. Sandie Wehe, whose support continues to advance healthcare initiatives in the community.
Bladder scanners are a crucial tool in determining how much urine is in a patient’s bladder, helping to diagnose and treat complications such as urinary retention and postpartum urinary issues. By eliminating unnecessary catheterization, this technology improves patient comfort and safety while reducing the risk of infections.
While the Emergency Department (ED) has been using a scanner for this purpose, having a dedicated device in the Women’s Center ensures that OB nurses can provide immediate, focused care without waiting for shared equipment. This increased accessibility streamlines workflow, allowing providers to assess and treat patients more efficiently.
“This new bladder scanner allows us to provide faster, more efficient care for our patients in the Women’s Center,” said Monica Hinds, Director of Obstetrics and Emergency Department. “By reducing the need for catheterization, we also minimize the risk of infections, supporting our goal of becoming a catheter-associated urinary tract infection-free facility. Ultimately, this enhances the overall experience and safety of the women we serve.”
The addition of this scanner reflects the ongoing commitment of San Luis Valley Health and the SLV Health Foundation to advancing women’s healthcare and ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and comfort. Through continued investment in innovative technology, the Women’s Center remains dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate care for patients across the region.