Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital in Denver has been recognized by EMS for Children Colorado with a Colorado Pediatric Preparedness for the Emergency Room (COPPER) designation, confirming the hospital’s emergency department is equipped, trained, and organized to deliver high-quality care for infants, children, and adolescents.

Intermountain Health’s Northglenn freestanding emergency department has also earned COPPER designation, becoming the first and only freestanding emergency department in the region to achieve this recognition.

In the United States, approximately 83% of children seeking emergency care are treated in general emergency departments rather than specialized pediatric facilities. 

Research shows pediatric-prepared emergency departments can reduce pediatric trauma mortality by up to 60%, highlighting the importance of readiness in community hospitals.

The COPPER designation reflects a comprehensive review of pediatric emergency preparedness, including specialized staffing, ongoing training, pediatric-focused protocols, and continuous quality improvement efforts.

At Intermountain Saint Joseph Hospital, this work is driven by a multidisciplinary Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator (PECC) team made up of emergency physicians, advanced practice providers, nursing leadership, and frontline nurses. 

The team leads pediatric-specific education, quarterly mock trauma scenarios, and chart reviews to ensure the highest standard of care for young patients.

Simulations regularly bring together physicians, nurses, lab, radiology, and patient access teams, reinforcing that pediatric readiness is a shared responsibility across the emergency department.

“Every child deserves access to exceptional emergency care when they need it most,” said Ryan Paterson, MD, emergency department chairman at Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital. “Achieving this COPPER certification reflects our commitment to clinical excellence and our investment in ensuring our emergency departments are fully prepared to meet the unique needs of pediatric patients. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our physicians, nurses, and support teams who work every day to provide safe, timely, and compassionate care to the children and families we serve.”

The COPPER designation assures patients, families, and EMS partners that Saint Joseph Hospital and the Northglenn emergency department are prepared to care for children of all ages, from newborns to teens, with specialized equipment, training, and protocols designed to quickly and effectively recognize and treat serious illness or injury.

EMS for Children Colorado has recognized Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital as a Colorado Pediatric Preparedness for the Emergency Room (COPPER) as a Pediatric Advanced facility—confirming the hospital’s emergency department is equipped, trained, and organized to deliver high-quality care for infants, children, and adolescents. 

Lutheran Hospital, located in Wheat Ridge, achieved a 99/100 pediatric readiness score. 

The COPPER designation reflects a comprehensive, onsite review of preparedness standards specific to pediatric emergency care, including the presence of nurse and physician Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinators (PECCs), regular pediatric education and competencies for emergency staff, and robust, ongoing quality improvement processes that review cases and share targeted guidance with clinicians. 

“The COPPER process helps elevate our standard level of care to a level of expert pediatric care,” said Daniel Cheek, MD, emergency physician and Lutheran Hospital’s trauma and EMS liaison. “Data shows that following COPPER guidelines can save young lives. Studies have shown that hospitals with a pediatric readiness score of 88 or higher can reduce mortality risk by up to 76% for ill children and 60% for pediatric trauma patients.” 

Preparedness—and continuous improvement in everyday practice—has been a major focus for Lutheran’s emergency team. For example, staff now weigh all pediatric patients in kilograms to ensure accurate, weight-based dosing; bed scales are used appropriately and supplemented for younger children; and teams obtain a full set of vital signs, including blood pressure, on every baby or child to help identify serious illness sooner. They also stock pediatric-sized patient gowns and blood pressure cuffs. 

“It’s been a big culture change for us—and it’s been really good,” said Ali Young, RN, pediatric emergency care coordinator at Lutheran. “As a parent, it means there’s an emergency department closer to home that’s equipped to take care of my sick kid.” 

Young added that the team is expanding education to sustain readiness. “We’re putting together a three- to four-hour pediatric specific class for emergency care for all of our staff members.” 

Lutheran Hospital’s emergency department treats approximately 350–400 pediatric patients each month, with seasonal peaks (e.g., 455 pediatric visits in October/November). Teams also respond to 5–10 pediatric trauma activations per month, mirroring broader community trends. 

The COPPER designation assures local EMS partners and families that Lutheran is prepared for children of all ages—from newborns to teens—with the specialized equipment, training, and protocols to recognize and treat serious illness or injury rapidly and effectively.

Children coming to the hospital for emergency medical care may look and act like small humans, but their needs – especially in a medical emergency – greatly differ from adults. 

That’s the premise behind Colorado Pediatric Preparedness for the Emergency Room (COPPER). 

Intermountain Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Lafayette is now recognized as a COPPER Pediatric Advanced designated hospital. Intermountain Health St. Mary’s Regional Hospital in Grand Junction also carries the designation.   

The COPPER designation underscores the hospital’s commitment to providing exceptional medical care to children in emergency situations. The certification, awarded by the Emergency Medical Services for Children program, ensures the highest standards of safety and preparedness for those young patients.  

Intermountain Good Samaritan Hospital caregivers began the journey a year ago by updating policies, obtaining specialized equipment, and ensuring caregivers participated in ongoing education. The team had elements in place to address the unique needs of children in emergencies, and this recognition reinforces that commitment.   

“We are proud of the strides we have made in pediatric care and the positive impact it has on our communities,” said Jannice Juliano, regional service line director for emergency and trauma care for Intermountain Health. 

Juliano is the former emergency department director for Intermountain St. Mary’s Hospital and helped lead that team to achieve the designation.   

Pediatric patients comprise more than 5% of the overall annual volume of patients treated in the Good Samaritan Hospital emergency room, but those patients have unique needs. 

“It’s a lower volume, high risk population for us,” said Marian Dirks, emergency department director at Intermountain Good Samaritan Hospital. “We want to make sure that we are focused on the things we need to do for the pediatric population because they’re not just small adults.”  

Intermountain Health, which has 34 hospitals in six states, continues to support pediatric readiness efforts across the system including regular meetings with the pediatric emergency care coordinators.

What started as a typical workout class for 28-year-old Morgynn Buxbaum of Billings, Montana, quickly spiraled into a medical emergency that landed her in the hospital for a week. 

Her story is a reminder of the importance of listening to your body and taking it slow when starting a new activity. 

After attending a new fitness class in February, Buxbaum experienced what she thought was normal post-exercise soreness. But by the next day, the pain had intensified to the point where she could barely sit or walk. 

“That night, I used leg compressions, but it didn’t help. I only got two hours of sleep.” she said. 

Suspecting something more serious after her urine became discolored, Buxbaum, a nurse, reached out to a colleague, who encouraged her to go to the walk-in clinic.  

After an evaluation at the Intermountain Health Walk-in Clinic in Billings, she was immediately referred to the emergency room at Intermountain Health St. Vincent Regional Hospital. 

Caregivers at the hospital determined she was suffering from Rhabdomyolysis. 

Often referred to as “rhabdo,” it is a rare but serious condition that occurs when damaged muscle tissue breaks down and releases proteins and electrolytes into the bloodstream. These substances can severely damage the kidneys and other organs, and in some cases, the condition can be life-threatening    

She was admitted to Intermountain St. Vincent under the care of Brandon Weeden, DO, for treatment with fluids and monitoring. 

“The numbers for my kidney and liver function were really high,” Buxbaum said. “They did ultrasounds on my kidneys, liver, and legs. There was even concern about nerve damage.” 

Buxbaum stayed in the hospital for nearly a week. “My numbers didn’t start dropping until almost a week in,” she said. 

Rhabdo can be triggered by extreme physical exertion, trauma, dehydration, or certain medications. Symptoms typically appear within one to three days after muscle injury and may include severe muscle pain, swelling, weakness, and dark-colored urine that resembles tea or cola. Some individuals may also experience nausea, decreased urination, or even loss of consciousness. 

While more common in older adults, Dr. Weeden recommends that all individuals stay in-tune with their body, especially as they ramp up or try new activities to prevent rhabdomyolysis.

“It’s important to gradually increase the intensity of workouts, staying well-hydrated, avoiding excessive heat exposure,” he said.  “Also pay close attention to how your body responds to physical stress. If you experience unusual or extreme muscle soreness, fatigue, or changes in urine color, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications” 

Buxbaum’s recovery has been slow, but she looks forward to getting back to full health. 

“After leaving the hospital, it took almost 4 to 5 days to walk normal and even then, it was a slow shuffle.” she said.  “Although I am better, walking at times is painful and takes a lot of out me.” 

Buxbaum hopes to share her experience as a cautionary tale.  

“It’s important to prep your body and listen to your body,” she said. “Don’t ignore the signs and if something feels off, go to the doctor,” she said. 

Intermountain American Fork Hospital ha recibido la verificación como Centro de Traumatología de Nivel III por parte de Utah Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Emergency Medical Services (la oficina de servicios médicos de emergencia del departamento de seguridad pública de Utah), lo que reconoce la dedicación del hospital para brindar atención de emergencia y traumatología de calidad a pacientes lesionados. 

Los centros de traumatología certificados son sometidos a revisiones rigurosas y deben cumplir con los criterios esenciales para garantizar la capacidad de atención de traumatología, como lo describe American College of Surgeons’ Committee on Trauma (comité de traumatología del colegio estadounidense de cirujanos). 

La verificación de nivel III significa que Intermountain American Fork Hospital brinda evaluación rápida, reanimación, cirugía, cuidados intensivos y estabilización de pacientes lesionados y operaciones de emergencia, incluida cobertura inmediata las 24 horas por parte de médicos de medicina de emergencia y apoyo rápido por parte de cirujanos generales y anestesiólogos. 

“Esta verificación solo reafirma el compromiso de American Fork Hospital de hacer todo lo necesario para brindar atención a los pacientes de nuestra comunidad”, declaró Jason Wilson, presidente de Intermountain American Fork Hospital. “Estoy muy orgulloso de nuestro equipo de traumatología y su dedicación a la salud y el bienestar de los pacientes de nuestra comunidad”. 

Intermountain American Fork Hospital, que anteriormente fue designado Centro de Traumatología de nivel IV, atiende a más de 700 pacientes con traumatismos al año, y una cantidad significativa de esos son accidentes de bicicleta, caídas, accidentes automovilísticos y accidentes de motocicleta. 

“El equipo de traumatología de American Fork Hospital agradece la sólida relación con nuestros servicios médicos de emergencia locales en toda la comunidad”, afirmó Kourtney Dinehart, enfermera titulada y directora del programa de traumatología de Intermountain American Fork Hospital. “Es ese trabajo en equipo lo que nos permite cumplir y superar estos estándares nacionales y brindar atención de calidad a nuestros pacientes”. 

El programa del American College of Surgeons’ Committee on Trauma cuenta con cinco categorías distintas. Cada categoría tiene criterios específicos que debe reunir un centro que desee obtener dicho nivel de verificación. Los hospitales también deben someterse a una evaluación in situ por parte de un equipo de revisores con experiencia. 

Con la certificación, Intermountain American Fork Hospital ahora está completamente certificado y designado como centro de traumatología de nivel III para los próximos tres años. 
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Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital has received verification as a Level III Trauma Center by the Utah Department of Public Safety's Bureau of Emegeny Medical Services, recognizing the hospital’s dedication to providing quality trauma and emergency care for injured patients.

Certified trauma centers undergo vigorous reviews and meet the essential criteria to ensure trauma care capability, as outlined by the American College of Surgeons’ Committee on Trauma.

The Level III verification means that Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital provides prompt assessment, resuscitation, surgery, intensive care, and stabilization of injured patients and emergency operations – including 24-hour immediate coverage by emergency medicine physicians, and rapid support by general surgeons and anesthesiologists.

“This verification only reiterates the fact that American Fork Hospital is committed to do what is necessary to provide care to patients in our community,” said Jason Wilson, president of Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital. “I’m so proud of our trauma team and their dedication to the health and well-being of patients in our community.”

American Fork Hospital, which previously was designated a Level IV Trauma Center, cares for more than 700 trauma patients annually, with a significant number of those traumas being bicycle accidents, falls, car accidents, and motorcycle crashes.

“The American Fork Hospital trauma team is grateful for the strong relationships with our local emergency medical services across the community,” said Kourtney Dinehart, RN, trauma program director for Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital. “It’s that teamwork that helps us meet and exceed these national standards and provide quality care to our patients.”

There are five separate categories in the American College of Surgeons’ Committee on Trauma program. Each category has specific criteria that must be met by a facility seeking that level of verification. Hospitals also must undergo an on-site review by a team of experienced site reviewers.

With the certification, American Fork Hospital is now fully certified and designated as a Level III trauma center for the next three years.

To learn more about Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital, click here.

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NOTE TO MEDIA: Images and video available upon request.

Intermountain Cedar City Hospital hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking to mark the expansion of the hospital’s emergency department that will increase access to emergency medicine and enhance care for the growing Southwest Utah community.

The new emergency department will add more emergency rooms, including those dedicated to behavioral health needs. 

“We are looking forward to this major milestone for Intermountain Cedar City Hospital and our community as we continue to focus on the growing health needs for this area,” said Jamison Robinett, president of Intermountain Cedar City Hospital. “This is our first major expansion since 2006, and we are excited to expand emergency access for the Southwest Utah community.”

Intermountain Cedar City Hospital's emergency department treated more than 20,000 patients in 2024. As the Southern Utah community continues to grow, this 5,000-square foot expansion is a needed addition, addressing the growing needs of the community and the millions of tourists and outdoor enthusiasts who visit nearby national parks and outdoor recreational areas. 

“Today’s expansion is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents something far greater — it represents a commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of every single person in Iron County and beyond,” said Darin Adams, chief of the Cedar City Police Department.

“Whether it’s responding to a serious accident, assisting a victim of violence, bringing in someone experiencing a medical crisis, or obtaining a medical clearance — our first responders rely on this hospital. They know that when seconds count, Intermountain Cedar City Hospital delivers,” said Adams.

This is the first major expansion for Intermountain Cedar City Hospital since 2006 and is part of the hospital's commitment to provide healthcare close to home for area residents.

As part of the expansion, the emergency department will add nine new rooms, including three additional behavioral rooms, another trauma room, a room with bariatric capabilities, and additional exam rooms. 

"We’re seeing increased volumes and increased sickness in our hospital, and these additional rooms will allow us to more comfortably care for these patients,” said Robinett.  

Intermountain Health caregivers attended the event, alongside community members.

Construction has already begun, and the expansion is expected to be completed in early 2026 by Jacobsen Construction.

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Intermountain Cedar City Hospital celebró una ceremonia por el inicio de las obras de ampliación del Departamento de Urgencias del hospital, que aumentará el acceso a la medicina de emergencia y mejorará la atención para la creciente comunidad del suroeste de Utah.

El nuevo Departamento de Urgencias tendrá más salas de emergencias, incluyendo salas dedicadas a necesidades de salud conductual. 

“Estamos muy ilusionados con este importante hito para Intermountain Cedar City Hospital y la comunidad, en nuestros esfuerzos por abordar las necesidades crecientes de salud de esta zona”, declaró Jamison Robinett, presidente de Intermountain Cedar City Hospital. “Se trata de nuestra primera gran ampliación desde 2006; y nos entusiasma poder ampliar el acceso a la atención de urgencias para la comunidad del suroeste de Utah”.

El Departamento de Urgencias de Intermountain Cedar City Hospital atendió a más de 20,000 (veinte mil) pacientes en 2024. Mientras la comunidad del sur de Utah sigue creciendo, esta ampliación de 5000 pies cuadrados es necesaria para satisfacer las crecientes necesidades de la comunidad y de los millones de turistas y aficionados a las actividades al aire libre que visitan los parques nacionales y las zonas recreativas del área. 

“La ampliación de hoy es más que solo ladrillos y cemento. Representa algo mucho mayor: un compromiso con la salud, la seguridad y el bienestar de cada persona del condado de Iron y más allá”, dijo Darin Adams, jefe del Departamento de Policía de Cedar City.

“Nuestros socorristas confían siempre en este hospital, ya sea para responder a un accidente grave, asistir a víctimas de violencia, atender crisis médicas u obtener autorizaciones médicas. Saben que, cuando los segundos cuentan, Intermountain Cedar City Hospital cumple”, dijo Adams.

Se trata de la primera gran ampliación de Intermountain Cedar City Hospital desde 2006 y forma parte del compromiso del hospital de ofrecer atención médica cerca de casa a los residentes de la zona.

Como parte de la ampliación, el Departamento de Urgencias añadirá nueve salas nuevas, entre ellas, tres salas adicionales de salud conductual, otra sala de traumatología, una sala con capacidad para pacientes bariátricos y salas de exámenes adicionales. 

“Tenemos un aumento del volumen y de las enfermedades en nuestro hospital; así que estas salas adicionales nos permitirán atender más cómodamente a estos pacientes”, dijo Robinett.  

Los cuidadores de Intermountain Health asistieron al acto, junto con miembros de la comunidad.

Las obras ya han comenzado y se espera que Jacobsen Construction finalice la ampliación a principios de 2026.

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