Sebastopol, Calif.-based Sonoma West Medical Center closed its surgical unit June 2 after a certified hygienist from the California Department of Public Health confirmed mold was growing in a sterilization sink, Sonoma West Times & News reports.
Interim SWMC CEO John Peleuses told Palm Drive Health Care District board members the hospital self-reported the mold to state officials. Mr. Peleuses said a plan to remove the mold is underway; however the extent of the problem and the estimated timeline of removal cannot be determined until the unit's wall is opened.
The surgical unit is closed because without the sink, the hospital has no way to sterilize surgical equipment.
California health inspectors will remain at SWMC until the problem is eradicated. Mr. Peleuses did not know how the closure would affect hospital revenue, Sonoma West Times & News reports.