Dryden Regional Health Centre/CKDR Files
With COVID-19 cases on rise in the Dryden area, the Dryden Regional Hospital is reminding residents of their visitor restrictions.
Officials with the hospital say general visitors are not allowed in any hospital setting during this time, only essential visitors are permitted for pediatric, maternity/postpartum, and emergency surgery patients, or those with hospital stays longer than five days.
DRHC patients that fall into these categories are allowed one Designated Essential Visitor per day during an agreed upon block of time.
When it comes to Palliative Care, the hospital says patients are allowed one Designated Essential Visitor with no length of stay restrictions and “other” visitors permitted between 1:00 and 6:00 pm, with a maximum of two visitors at one time.
Throughout the pandemic, officials explain exceptions have been made on a case-by-case basis regarding children and other visitors outside of the policy provisions.
All visitors are expected to follow infection control procedures at all times when visiting the hospital. Visitors, without exception, must:
- Wear their provided medical-grade face mask at all times while in the hospital. Those who cannot wear a face mask will not be permitted as a visitor
- Be actively screened by the hospital each day they plan to visit. Those who fail the screen will not be permitted to enter
- Perform hand hygiene upon entry and exit of the facilities, and before and after entering a patient room
- Remain in the patient room at all times. Visitors are not permitted in waiting rooms, common areas, or the cafeteria.
The DRHC says while they understand that these restrictions can be difficult for patients and their families, restricting access to the hospital is one of the ways to protect vulnerable patients and staff from the spread of COVID-19.
DRHC thanks you for your cooperation to keep our hospital, patients, staff and community safe.
The hospital’s policy is reviewed on an ongoing basis and changes are made as the pandemic situation evolves.
If you require further information, you’re asked to call 223-8201 ext.1230 to speak with the Nurse Manager.
