Sparta Community Hospital's Decontamination Team participated in a regional emergency decontamination training session on October 1, 2025. The event was hosted by Memorial Hospital in Chester and led by Scott Klosterman from the BJC Emergency Management Agency.
The team members from Sparta Community Hospital—Gunnar Moore, Summer Bower, and Rob Wade—joined other professionals from multiple facilities to enhance their skills in responding to hazardous materials incidents. The training included classroom instruction on how to identify and manage chemical, biological, liquid, and radiological threats. It also covered protocols for patient decontamination.
Participants learned proper procedures for putting on and removing specialized protective suits. They practiced decontaminating patients using Memorial Hospital’s equipment and decontamination tent. This hands-on approach allowed staff to gain practical experience in a controlled environment.
Attendees noted the value of refining their techniques and building stronger collaboration among regional healthcare providers. Organizers stated that ongoing education and partnerships between hospitals are essential for preparedness and community resilience.
"When it comes to protecting our patients and our communities, we all believe in better readiness," organizers said.
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