In reference to the BDN, Sept. 24-25 article that stated Eastern Maine Medical Center would no longer lend equipment, except in emergenices, to St. Joseph Hospital, I was really dismayed. As an ICU nurse at St. Joseph Hospital for the past several years, I have received many calls from EMMC’s ICU staff requesting the use of various pieces of our equipment. On every occasion, our supervisors have authorized our lending the equipment, even when it reduces our stock.

It is well known by all nursing supervisors that hospitals throughout Maine accommodate each others’ needs in the interest of a particular patient’s care. Staff or courier sources are superb in assisting with this process. Cost-effective care has each hospital stocking equipment to meet its average utilization. Many circumstances may cause a hospital to have a temporary need exceeding this supply. I was happy to read that St. Joseph will still continue to share. I believe Sister Norberta is truly demonstrating that the mission of St. Joseph Hospital does exist. Compassion, competence, and community. Jeanne-Ann Ouellette, R.N. Levant