Seven ventilators loaned to St. David's North Austin by Texas State to treat COVID-19 patients

Texas State University has loaned seven ventilators to St. David’s North Austin Medical Center to help treat the increase of patients stricken by the COVID-19 pandemic in Central Texas.

Previously, the Department of Respiratory Care, part of the College of Health Professions at Texas State’s Round Rock Campus, loaned four ventilators to Ascension Seton Williamson in Round Rock. Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin has discussed the possibility of acquiring two units. 

The Department of Respiratory Care uses a total of 14 ventilators to train respiratory therapists. Since Texas State has shifted to remote delivery of coursework through the end of the spring semester due to the pandemic, respiratory care faculty realized the idle ventilators could serve the local community.

Ventilators are crucial for treating severe cases of COVID-19. Afflicted patients can suffer complications including respiratory failure, and the ventilators assist them in breathing. A single unit can cost between $30,000-$40,000, limiting the number of hospitals have available. In parts of the country where the pandemic is widespread, such as New York and Washington State, this has led to critical shortages.